ᐅ How do I plan the Ikea PAX system as a storage solution for the bedroom?

Hello everyone,

I am currently planning to equip my bedroom with the Ikea PAX system as a storage solution and am looking for tips on optimal planning. Specifically, I am interested in which aspects are most important when measuring the room, selecting the modules, and choosing the interior fittings. How should I proceed to make the best use of the available space while remaining flexible? It would also be helpful to hear experiences on the best choice for doors (sliding vs. hinged) and whether the PAX frame works well combined with other furniture. I am especially interested in how to plan the interior organization effectively so that clothes and other items are neatly stored without having to constantly rearrange.

Looking forward to your advice and suggestions!

Simply measure the room carefully, then adjust the PAX in the Ikea planner accordingly. Sliding doors save space if there is little room in front of the wardrobe. Organize the interior according to clothing: plenty of hanging rods, drawers for small items. Doors and carcass can be well combined; this works without any problems.

Hello geplo41,

your question is great because it directly addresses the planning process. I recommend the following approach:

- First, measure the room dimensions carefully, paying special attention to niches, radiators, electrical outlets, and light switches, as these can affect the placement.
- Then consider how the space will be used: What needs to be accessed frequently, and which clothes should be hung or folded?
- You can then experiment with the exact measurements using the Ikea PAX planner. Pay attention to the cabinet depth (35 or 58 cm [14 or 23 inches]) depending on whether you prefer to hang shirts or fold sweaters.
- For the doors: Sliding doors are especially suitable for tight spaces, although the wardrobe will be a bit more expensive and access can sometimes be limited. Hinged doors are cheaper and allow full access to the entire wardrobe at once.
- Plan the interior layout thoughtfully with hanging rods, shelves, drawers, and possibly baskets. This helps avoid unnecessary rearranging.

Common mistake: Underestimating the height of the shelves – it is better to keep them adjustable or use height-adjustable shelves.

Good luck with your project!

First of all, it is essential to measure the room precisely, taking into account all technical elements such as radiators, electrical outlets, and even light sources. Ceiling height is a particularly important factor for PAX planning, as there are standard heights of 201 cm (79 inches), 236 cm (93 inches), and 266 cm (105 inches) – the latter being less common.

When it comes to cabinet depth, keep in mind that the 58 cm (23 inches) option offers more space for hangers, which are usually about 45–50 cm (18–20 inches) wide. If you plan to store a lot of hanging clothes, I strongly recommend this option.

The interior layout can be customized very flexibly using the Ikea internal accessories such as drawers, shelves, tie racks, and pull-out trouser hangers. Important: position clothes rods at different heights (one at the top for long dresses, one in the middle for shirts).

Sliding doors save space, but you should note that due to the mechanism, the entire wardrobe space is not accessible at once, and placing two modules side by side might be better for easier access.

Finally, I recommend considering leaving a few centimeters of space between the wardrobe and the wall to prevent doors and accessories from getting stuck. Have you also thought about which materials and colors would suit the room? This can greatly influence the atmosphere.

Landontau schrieb:
Typical mistake: people underestimate the height of the shelves – better to keep them adjustable or use height-adjustable shelves.

Thanks for the tip, that makes sense! In my initial design, I planned fixed shelves to keep everything as stable as possible. Now I’m considering whether I can keep the PAX system flexible enough to make changes later if my storage needs change.

One more question for everyone: how would you rate the assembly effort? Is it worth building it alone, or is it more of a project for two or more people? I want to factor in how easy it might be to get the modules into the room during planning.

I’d appreciate it if you could share your thoughts briefly.

geplo41 schrieb:
How do you estimate the assembly effort? Is it worth building it alone, or is it more of a project for two or more people?

It is definitely practical to have someone to help. Especially when raising and assembling the tall modules, having a second person is very helpful. It is possible to do it alone, but it takes longer and is more complicated.