ᐅ Is it possible to connect KALLAX shelves lengthwise to increase stability when used as a room divider?

Hello everyone,

I am planning to use an IKEA KALLAX shelf as a room divider and wonder if it is possible and practical to connect multiple KALLAX units not only side by side but also lengthwise (i.e., in depth) to significantly increase stability. My idea is to connect them not only at the usual side edges but also to screw or otherwise secure two shelves together along their depth surfaces so that the room divider becomes a more stable single unit and is less likely to tip over.

Does anyone have experience with this or any tips on the best technical approach? What should be considered to make the connection sturdy while keeping it clean or at least minimally visible? Thanks in advance!

rebateo schrieb:
whether it is possible and practical to connect multiple KALLAX units not only side by side, but also lengthwise (i.e., in depth), to significantly increase stability.

In principle, lengthwise connection of KALLAX shelves is possible; however, the dowels and screws provided by Ikea are not designed for this type of joint. To improve stability when using the units as a room divider, I recommend connecting the KALLAX elements with metal brackets at the edges, preferably on the inside where they are less visible. In addition, wood glue and screws can be used. Alternatively, specialized furniture connectors (e.g., Lamello or Minifix) are suitable if you have some DIY skills.

Also, make sure the shelves stand on a level surface and, if necessary, secure them to the wall to prevent tipping entirely.

I have already connected two KALLAX shelves lengthwise, simply using small brackets on the inside. Important: Do not use screws that are too long, otherwise the wood will split.

Lotizar schrieb:
Also, make sure that the shelves are placed on a level surface and, if needed, secured to the wall to completely prevent tipping.

Thank you, that’s important. I want to position the shelves freely in the room as double-sided accessible partitions. Wall mounting is therefore not an option. Are there alternative methods to reduce the risk of tipping without attaching them to a wall?

Bilujon schrieb:
Don’t use screws that are too long, or the wood will split.

Do you also know which screw thickness is recommended? And is there a tip for placing the screws as inconspicuously as possible?

rebateo schrieb:
Are there alternative measures to minimize the tipping risk without a wall?

The tipping risk is the main concern with freestanding room dividers. To achieve stability without a wall, you should focus on the base: create a wider footprint using a sturdy base plate or feet with a larger contact area. Longitudinal connections alone hardly increase stability significantly, because the shelving can still tip over in height.

Additionally, the connection can be reinforced with strong tension rods or metal profiles that secure the shelf against tipping movements.

Bilujon schrieb:
Don't use screws that are too long,

I agree with this, the wood is thin and can split easily.

Conclusion: Longitudinal connections are useful but only provide safety when combined with a wide base and heavy-duty feet or similar solutions.

Cool project! 🙂 I also joined my KALLAX shelf units lengthwise on the side using small metal brackets.

kasan schrieb:
Create a wider base by using a sturdy bottom panel or feet with a larger surface area.

I can definitely confirm that! I also screwed a thin plywood panel on the side at the bottom – it feels very sturdy and looks great, especially visually.

Tip: If you cover the screws with KALLAX panels or furniture paint, they are barely noticeable.

It’s a lot of fun to get creative with this!