ᐅ KALLAX used as a console in a narrow hallway – how do you attach the doors?

Created on: 19 Aug 2024 08:37
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Leonau46
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Leonau46
19 Aug 2024 08:37
Hello everyone,

I have a question and hope to benefit from the community’s experience: I am planning to use an IKEA KALLAX as a console in my very narrow hallway. The available floor space is limited, but ideally, I want to attach doors to it to neatly store items like shoes, bags, and similar things behind them.

My specific question is: How do you attach doors to a KALLAX when it is placed in a tight corridor with little space for opening? Do you use special hinges, magnetic catches, or other clever solutions to prevent the doors from sticking out or getting in the way when walking past?

Any tips on attachment methods, door-opening mechanisms that work well in narrow hallways, or additional measures such as alternative handles or the use of sliding rails would be very much appreciated.

Thanks in advance for your advice!
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pikin
19 Aug 2024 09:11
Hello Leonau46,

for securing the doors in the narrow hallway, I recommend using push-to-open hinges or magnetic door dampers. These systems do not require space for forward handle movement and prevent the doors from swinging open unintentionally.

Alternatively, you can choose pivot hinges with a soft-close feature, which allow silent closing and keep the door panel stable. For especially tight spaces, sliding doors are a good option, provided there is enough lateral space.

It is important that the installation is very stable, as a narrow corridor often leads to small bumps or contacts.
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Nabla64
19 Aug 2024 09:49
Hello,

I fully support the suggestion of using push-to-open mechanisms and would like to add a brief installation guide:

1. Check the clearance: Since hallways often have limited space, it is advisable to install the doors as flush as possible with the KALLAX unit.
2. Choose push-to-open hinges that do not require handles and open by pressing.
3. For a secure and lasting fit: pre-drill and use screws with sufficient length to avoid damaging the wood.
4. Install magnetic catches that close automatically and hold the door firmly in place.

Common mistakes such as screws being too loose or using the wrong hinge size should be avoided.

Many users report that this setup works reliably even in tight spaces.
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Paunon
19 Aug 2024 10:02
Push-to-open works well. Alternatively, sliding doors are best for narrow hallways.
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KAULIS
19 Aug 2024 10:35
The problems with installing doors in a narrow hallway often arise because the door leaves do not have enough clearance to move freely and can be easily damaged.

Using push-to-open hinges significantly reduces this issue, as no handles are needed and the door leaf is only opened when necessary.

Installing magnetic catches also ensures a secure hold. Before installation, the hallway clearance should be carefully measured and checked against the door dimensions and hinge movements to avoid tight spots.
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Leonau46
19 Aug 2024 11:12
Nabla64 schrieb:
Typical mistakes such as screws that are too loose or incorrect hinge size should be avoided.

Thanks for the tip, Nabla64 – I’ve actually heard about hinges being screwed in too loosely. Is there a general rule for how deep screws should go into the KALLAX frame without compromising the material?

My doors are 40cm (16 inches) wide and 30cm (12 inches) high. Does anyone know if stability varies with different screw sizes?

Also: How much wear do the doors experience from frequent use of push-to-open mechanisms? Do they really last long?