ᐅ Is it possible to customize the depth of a Pax wardrobe?

Hello everyone,

I have a specific question about the IKEA Pax wardrobe system: Is it possible to customize the depth of a Pax wardrobe, meaning can it be configured to dimensions other than the standard sizes? My available space is quite limited, and I would like to know if the depth can be chosen freely or if you are restricted to the predefined depths (usually 35 cm (14 inches), 50 cm (20 inches), or 58 cm (23 inches)). I am also interested in how such a modification might affect the stability as well as compatibility with accessories such as doors or internal fittings.

Thank you in advance for any helpful answers and advice!

Basically, the Pax wardrobes are designed with fixed depth measurements, usually 35, 50, or 58 cm (14, 20, or 23 inches).
You cannot individually adjust the depth of the cabinet carcasses, as they are prefabricated modules.
If you need a different depth, you would have to consider a custom construction or make external modifications.

Hello Gastonej52,

Regarding your question about customizing the depth of Pax wardrobes: IKEA offers three standard depth options, as Ankeli already mentioned: 35 cm (14 inches), 50 cm (20 inches), and 58 cm (23 inches). These dimensions are based on the design of the modules and are coordinated with the corresponding doors and internal fittings.

Customizing the depth through self-modification is theoretically possible, but there are several important considerations:

- The frame construction is designed for the specified depths. Changing the depth may affect stability.
- Doors and hinges are matched to the standard depths. Deviations could cause the doors not to close properly or the hinges not to fit.
- Internal components such as shelves, drawers, or hanging rails are designed specifically for these depths.

If your space only allows for a smaller or larger depth, an alternative could be combining different modules or choosing a different type of wardrobe.

A possible DIY solution might be modifying the carcass or adding rear panels, but this requires craftsmanship skills and could affect warranty and functionality.

I hope this clarifies your question. If you like, I can also provide advice on possible alternatives.

Ankeli schrieb:
Basically, the Pax wardrobes are designed with fixed depths, usually 35, 50, or 58 cm (14, 20, or 23 inches).

Thanks for the quick reply.

Matthewt48 schrieb:
Customizing the depth through self-modification is theoretically possible, but there are several important factors to consider:

I’m particularly interested in how much this affects stability. For example, can this be compensated by reinforcing the frame? I ask because I might need to reduce the depth by about 10 cm (4 inches). Obviously, IKEA doesn’t offer an official option for this, but with some DIY skills, it should be doable, right?

And one more practical question: What about the door mounting options if the depth is changed? Can standard doors still be used, or would specially made doors be needed?

Does anyone have experience with this or can share some advice?

Regarding adjusting the depth of Pax wardrobes, the situation is as follows:

- The frame construction of Pax wardrobes is designed for the standard factory depths; load-bearing capacity and stability are based on these dimensions.
- Individually reducing the depth by about 10 cm (4 inches) is difficult to achieve without significant modifications to the carcass, as the side panels in prefabricated modules and panels serve a structural function.
- Reinforcements can help improve stability but do not change the fundamental geometry and require additional fixing points.
- The doors are matched to the respective depths, as hinges and spacers are calibrated for these dimensions. Changing the depth often causes issues with door alignment and closing function.

In short: modifying the depth risks operational and stability problems. The usual recommendation is to stay within the specified depth measurements or to look for alternative solutions for space constraints.

Therefore, I recommend performing a detailed structural assessment and practical testing before making any spontaneous changes.

Gastonej52 schrieb:
I am mainly interested in how much this affects stability. Can this, for example, be compensated by reinforcements on the frame?

Stability is definitely compromised if the depth of the Pax unit is altered without considering the overall construction. The side panels, back panels, and joints are designed for the specified depth and contribute to the overall structural integrity.

Reinforcements can reduce some risks, such as adding internal battens or metal brackets. However, this does not change the fact that the entire material arrangement is optimized for the standard dimensions.

Gastonej52 schrieb:
What are the mounting options for doors if the depth is changed?

The door mechanism is based on a defined spacing from the unit to the door front. Changing the depth can cause misalignment; doors may not close properly or could sag.

In summary: Custom depth adjustments are not intended and are only feasible with limitations through modifications. A better solution is to choose a module with the correct dimensions or consider custom options from a carpenter.