ᐅ Are there PLATSA options for open shelving units?

Hello everyone,

I am currently looking into the Ikea Platsa system and am particularly interested in versions that can be designed as open shelving units. Since the PLATSA system is very flexible and offers many modular components, I want to find out if Ikea officially provides variants or sets specifically intended for open shelves—without back panels or doors—designed as space-saving and easily accessible storage solutions.

I am especially interested in modular combinations that do not have doors and could potentially be used as room dividers to visually separate living and working areas while keeping an open feel.

Perhaps there are also specific accessories that allow converting the system into an open shelving unit if this is not directly available in the standard sets.

Does anyone here have experience or know of exact variants that can be used as open shelves from PLATSA? I look forward to your answers and tips!

Hello,

PLATSA modules are generally available with or without doors. There are basic frames without back panels that you can use as open shelves. You can assemble individual compartments without doors to create an open shelving system. However, complete sets specifically for open shelving are not officially offered.

tinau schrieb:
There are base frames without back panels that you can use as open shelving.

Exactly, this is an important point: many PLATSA units come standard with doors or back panels, but the basic frames can be combined freely.

This means if you want an open shelving system, you can intentionally skip doors and use individual shelves instead of back panels—or simply omit the back panel altogether. This makes the entire setup feel more open and lighter.

Another tip: PLATSA is very modular, so you can stack individual modules or arrange them side by side as room dividers. Just make sure to use the stability and anti-tip system, especially for open shelves without back panels.

Even though Ikea does not explicitly market an “open option,” the system can be easily adapted to fit your idea.

Nikita61 schrieb:
I am mainly interested in modular combinations that do not require doors and could possibly be used as room dividers

Formally, Ikea does not offer standalone product lines specifically designed as open shelving within the PLATSA system. The flexibility comes primarily from the option to combine modular units with or without doors and back panels.

For open shelving, the classic PLATSA frame without a back panel is usually used. Additionally, you can add shelves or insert shelves to create open compartments.

It is important to properly secure the modules and ensure stability with appropriate anti-tip and wall fasteners. For room dividers, I recommend fixing the modules to both floor and ceiling or purchasing suitable feet to make the structure safe.

Regarding accessories: there are also inserts and storage boxes that can be placed openly on the shelves. The system is therefore well suited for open designs if the right elements are combined.

Hey everyone,

I think what makes the PLATSA system so exciting is that you can customize it exactly how you want. Whether open or closed, it’s purely a matter of personal preference. 😄

Marlenepa schrieb:
PLATSA is very modular; you can stack the individual modules or place them side by side as room dividers.

I totally agree! At my place, I’ve built a few open shelves with PLATSA, and it looks really airy. Just leave out the back panels, add some cool boxes—and you’re done! It’s no problem that this isn’t officially considered an "open version." You just have to be creative.

My tip: Make sure to secure it against tipping, either with wall fasteners or standing feet. Safety first, otherwise it can get wobbly. 😅

Have fun building!

Nikita61 schrieb:
Maybe there are specific accessories that allow you to convert the system into an open shelving unit

The accessories for PLATSA are indeed helpful if you want to make the modules more open. There are standardized shelves and dividers that can be used flexibly.

Additionally, I recommend using extra stabilizing elements for open constructions, which Ikea sells separately or that you can find at a hardware store. Since open shelves are often subjected to higher loads and are less stable than closed ones, it’s important to pay attention to the structural integrity.

If you want to create an open shelving system as a room divider, it might also be a good idea to combine modules with glass or acrylic panels. This provides both stability and openness.

Overall, the key is: PLATSA doesn’t offer specific open sets, but thanks to its modularity and suitable accessories, you can easily create open solutions.