ᐅ How can I use Ikea Pax wardrobes in small attic spaces?

Hello everyone, I’m planning to furnish my small attic room with an Ikea PAX system but face some challenges due to the sloped ceiling and limited floor space. My main question is: How can Ikea PAX wardrobes be used most effectively in a small attic to maximize the available height without the sloped ceiling significantly reducing storage capacity? Are there any smart installation methods or modifications that are especially helpful for these kinds of spatial conditions? I look forward to your tips and experiences!

It is best to use the PAX units without the back panel and install them directly against the sloped ceiling. This way, you can maximize storage space and make optimal use of the height. Custom pieces like angled cuts are unfortunately not available from Ikea; you will need to adjust those yourself.

An important aspect when using PAX wardrobes in attic rooms is to first accurately measure the ceiling height at various points, especially where the slope is steep. It is advisable to assemble the wardrobes modularly and position them so that they fit as closely as possible to the lowest point.

Since Ikea does not specifically account for sloped ceilings, the following solutions are recommended:
- Plan to individually trim single side panels or shelving units in height
- Use flexible carcasses that can be shortened horizontally
- Install accessories such as clothes rails, drawers, or shelves in a way that the sloping ceiling does not limit their functionality

Another option is to adapt the PAX carcasses with battens or brackets so they can be securely fixed to the slope. Pay special attention to the type of fixing, as the load distribution is uneven. Important: Check the distance to the slope using a spirit level or laser measure to avoid misalignment later.

Do you already have a detailed dimension profile of the room? Then I can possibly provide more specific advice.

Wyatt schrieb:
An important point when using PAX in attic rooms is first to accurately measure the ceiling height at different points, especially where the slope is steep.

Yes, the ceiling height varies from 2.10 m (6 ft 11 in) at the highest point to about 1.05 m (3 ft 5 in) at the lowest point directly under the roof slope. The total depth of the recess is approximately 220 cm (87 inches), with around 160 cm (63 inches) standing height in the middle. My idea is to stay modular in height because I want different storage surfaces and at least one clothes rail. How would you recommend cutting the material or adjusting the carcasses to best integrate the slope?

VEFANON52 schrieb:
How would you best cut the material or adjust the carcasses to optimally integrate the slope?

This is a typical issue for custom-cut side panels. I recommend assembling the PAX carcasses without the top panel and back first. This way, you can precisely fit the side panels to the slope by cutting them at an angle with a jigsaw or circular saw.

Step-by-step:
- Measure the slope from the floor to the planned height at several points.
- Transfer the slope onto an MDF board or similar material that you will use as the side panel.
- Cut your material accurately and assemble the carcass with the adjusted sides.
- For the back, you can use flexible panels made from thinner material or omit the back entirely if the slope itself serves as the wall.

It is important to consider not only the slope but also the weight, especially if the cabinets will be wall-mounted. Consulting on appropriate fixing hardware such as brackets, anchors, and screws is then essential.

Simply place the PAX elements so that the low slope is not obstructed. Use hinged doors only when there is enough headroom; otherwise, opt for sliding doors or open compartments.