ᐅ Are there creative solutions for PAX wardrobes in small apartments?

Hello everyone,

I am currently facing the challenge of creating as much storage space as possible in my small apartment without overwhelming the room with impractical furniture. My idea is to use an IKEA PAX wardrobe system, but the depth and width of large wardrobes often do not fit well in small rooms.

Therefore, I am interested in knowing if there are creative solutions or special modifications for PAX in small apartments that make the furniture as space-saving and functional as possible.

By creative, I don’t just mean simple tricks like removing doors, but also modular or flexible options, custom interior fittings, or combinations with other furniture that are particularly practical.

Maybe someone here has experience with unusual PAX configurations to optimize their use in small spaces? Or tips on how to get more out of the system by rearranging compartments or adding supplemental systems?

Looking forward to your ideas and advice!

Hello Dorian,

I think your question is very good because you are specifically asking for "creative solutions for PAX in small apartments" and not just looking for standard tips.

From experience, modular interior dividers and additional shelves are an excellent way to use the available storage space efficiently without focusing solely on the outer cabinet size. I also recommend trying the smaller depth of 35 cm (14 inches) instead of the standard PAX depth of 60 cm (24 inches) if space is limited.

Another tip is to use sliding doors instead of hinged doors, which save a lot of space and make access easier.

You can also combine PAX units by building lower modules and installing shelves or wall cabinets above them – this creates storage vertically without overwhelming the space.

And last but not least: interior organization with pull-out baskets or height-adjustable clothes rails allows you to adapt the wardrobe flexibly to your needs.

I’m happy to provide more details on specific IKEA accessories that really optimize usage if needed.

Perhaps someone else has additional special solutions to share?

sarlo schrieb:

Another tip is to use sliding doors instead of hinged doors, as they save a lot of space and make access easier.

This recommendation is particularly important from a space-planning perspective. Hinged doors require a clearance radius to open, which is often not satisfactorily available in small rooms. Sliding doors completely eliminate this issue.

Furthermore, using PAX units with a shallow depth combined with custom interior fittings can help maximize storage capacity. A common mistake is to use standard compartments without considering actual usage habits.

The use of pull-out interiors, especially those that fully extend, also significantly improves accessibility to storage located further inside.

In addition, for small apartments, the combination of PAX units with multifunctional furniture should be considered, such as built-in benches with storage or beds with integrated wardrobes.

These solutions create several layers of storage without making the space feel visually closed off or cluttered.

Dorian schrieb:

Maybe someone here has experience with unusual PAX configurations to fit them optimally into small rooms?

I recommend PAX corner units or corner solutions. They make the best use of otherwise wasted space. This increases storage capacity without blocking other furniture.

In addition, open shelves on PAX frames work well in small rooms, as they appear less bulky and provide better visibility.

Hello everyone,

In addition to the previous tips, I would like to focus on flexible storage systems within the PAX unit.

- Adjustable shelves allow customization for different items, from stacks of clothing to shoe collections.
- Small organizers such as drawer inserts for accessories help keep things tidy and prevent clutter.

Also, even small hallways or niches can benefit from the PAX system if you don’t install a full wardrobe wall but use individual modules instead.

Another tip is to equip the interior walls with additional holders for belts, bags, or jewelry to make full use of the storage space.

Regarding doors, easy accessibility is especially important – sliding doors, as mentioned before, are clearly advantageous, as well as using PAX units without doors if it fits the overall look.

Personally, I have had good experiences combining open and closed elements, which creates a light atmosphere in small rooms.

sarlo schrieb:

You can also combine PAX units by stacking lower modules and installing shelves or wall cabinets above them, for example – this creates vertical storage without overwhelming the space.

This approach corresponds to space-optimized planning that makes better use of vertical dimensions and strikes a balance between storage capacity and a feeling of openness.

Additionally, I recommend customizing PAX elements by using fabric curtains instead of standard doors; they save space and can be visually unobtrusive.

Exposed interior parts, like clothes rods with LED lighting, are also practical and create atmosphere.

The optimal solution depends on the specific floor plan, but combining different elements in the PAX system is definitely the key to success in small apartments.