ᐅ How can I optimize the setup of Ikea Pax wardrobes in rooms with sloped ceilings?

Created on: 9 Aug 2020 19:03
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Lexmi
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Lexmi
9 Aug 2020 19:03
Good evening everyone, I am planning to install an Ikea Pax wardrobe against the wall with a sloped ceiling in my bedroom. Due to the angled ceiling, the available space is not rectangular, which makes using the wardrobe modules more difficult. My specific question is: How can Ikea Pax wardrobes be optimally arranged with a sloped ceiling to efficiently use storage space while also considering possible structural limitations? I have thought about using simple standard shelves or special components. Do any of you have proven solutions, such as custom interior fittings, modifications to the wardrobe dimensions, or additional furniture pieces that adapt well to a slope? I am also interested in how you manage the different heights and depths on the slope to create maximum storage without compromising accessibility. I appreciate any tips!
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Landontau
9 Aug 2020 21:17
Hello Lexmi,

First of all, I think it’s great that you are approaching your Pax project so thoughtfully. When installing Pax wardrobes under a sloped ceiling, there are indeed several points to consider, which I would like to outline here in a structured way:

- Measurement & Planning: Carefully measure the wall height at several points along the slope to determine the maximum height for the wardrobe side panel. From this, you can choose the appropriate wardrobe heights (e.g., 201 cm or 236 cm (79 inches or 93 inches)).

- Module Cutting or Customization: If the Pax units are too tall for the sloped wall, it is common to cut side panels at an angle or detach part of the slope. Ikea itself does not offer custom-made parts for this, so it’s recommended to use a carpenter or specially made trims.

- Interior Equipment: To fully utilize the storage space, flexible interior fittings such as shelves, drawers, or clothes rails that you can position variably are useful. Especially use shallow shelves for low areas under the slope.

- Open Top Modules: A creative option is to leave the top section of the wardrobe open or use it as decorative storage.

- Alternative Systems: Often, combining Pax with custom-made shelves or angled side cuts makes sense.

Typical mistakes include neglecting the slope during interior planning and relying on standard heights. It’s better to allow a few centimeters (inches) of clearance so that no awkward gaps remain after assembly.

In summary: Precise measuring, possible carpentry adjustments, and flexible interior fittings are key. If you have floor plans or measurements, I’d be happy to assist you further.
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PAR63
10 Aug 2020 08:42
Hello Lexmi,

First of all, thank you for the detailed description of your initial situation. Here are a few additional tips from my side:
Landontau schrieb:
Surveying & Planning: Measure the wall height at several points along the slope precisely to determine the maximum height for the wardrobe side.

That is absolutely correct; accurate measuring is essential. Additionally, I recommend capturing the slope using graph paper with millimeter (mm) markings or a digital sketch so you can visualize the dimensions more clearly.

My tip for dividing the space:

- Use shallower cabinets for the lower parts (e.g., 35cm (14 inches) instead of 58cm (23 inches)) because the slope often reduces available depth toward the back.
- Use modular corner elements from Pax to fill gaps.
- For the upper areas with limited height, you can use garment bags or boxes, which can be left open or covered with curtains.
Landontau schrieb:
Use mainly flat shelves for low areas under the slope.

I agree with that—flexible interior fittings are key. In lower areas, drawers or pull-out baskets can help create storage even in small niches.

In conclusion: good planning and consciously combining different modules and interior fittings make handling a sloped wall with the Pax system manageable. Custom carpentry solutions are often advisable for steep slopes but are not always mandatory.

Hope this helps you further!
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Celia
10 Aug 2020 09:23
I chose to make the cabinets under the sloped ceiling slightly shorter. The remaining space above the cabinets I used for open shelves or decoration. This way, everything is easily accessible and doesn’t feel cramped.
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plo60
11 Aug 2020 12:07
I have often noticed that with such solutions, the focus is almost exclusively on storage space, while little attention is paid to practical use and accessibility. An Ikea Pax wardrobe under a sloped ceiling should not only provide as much storage space as possible but also remain functional in everyday use.
Landontau schrieb:
Typical mistakes include neglecting the slope during interior planning and relying on standard heights.

I agree with this but would like to add that ergonomics are often insufficiently considered. Especially with deep wardrobes under a slope, there is a risk that items at the back become hard to reach or access is complicated.

Might it be worth considering placing shallow dressers or custom-made lowboards under the slope instead of a large wardrobe volume? This way, you can make better use of the height while still maintaining comfortable front access.

If the Pax wardrobe is to form a corner unit, it’s also important to think about how the doors will open and how the furniture interacts with other pieces in the room. In this case, besides storage space, the flow of the room could be crucial.

I find it useful to broaden the question somewhat and include not only the optimization of the wardrobe itself but also its practical use in daily life.
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RENMA
12 Aug 2020 07:54
Summary and precise guidelines for the optimal installation of Ikea Pax wardrobes under sloping ceilings:

- Accurate measurement of room height at multiple points is the foundation for planning.
- Choose the appropriate wardrobe height (201 cm or 236 cm) depending on the lowest point of the slope.
- Combine different depths (35 cm and 58 cm) for better space utilization.
- Side panels can be adjusted but require craftsmanship skills or professional carpentry.
- Flexible interior fittings: shelves, drawers, hanging rods – can be positioned variably.
- Open tops or additional shelves above the wardrobe for less frequently used upper spaces.
- Consider accessibility: deep wardrobes should be ergonomically reachable to keep daily use practical.
plo60 schrieb:
Ich halte es für sinnvoll, die Frage also etwas weiter zu fassen und neben der reinen Schrankoptimierung auch den praktischen Alltagseinsatz mit einzubeziehen.

This is a crucial point. The most efficient planning is of little use if the furniture is not functional and accessible. Combining standard Pax modules with custom adjustments is a practical solution for most users.

My recommendation: plan with accurate measurements, use the flexible Pax interior fittings, and if necessary, combine them with custom-made elements to make the best use of the slope.