ᐅ Can I use Ikea Pax wardrobes as room dividers in open-plan apartments?

Hello everyone, I am currently planning to make my apartment a bit more open and am considering using the well-known IKEA PAX wardrobe as a room divider. My main question is: Can the IKEA PAX also be used as a room divider in open-plan apartments, and if so, what advantages and disadvantages might arise? I am particularly thinking about aspects such as stability, appearance, practical use (e.g., storage space versus walkway area), and the possibility to use or customize the wardrobe on both sides to create a better separation. Has anyone had experience or tips on how to effectively use the PAX series as a room divider in open layouts without it becoming a visual or functional issue? Thank you in advance for your insights!

Oh yes, the PAX is super versatile! I’ve used a PAX wardrobe as a room divider between the living room and bedroom in my own apartment, and I’m really happy with it! 🙂 What’s really cool is that you can leave out the back panel and open it from both sides, which saves a lot of space while still effectively separating the rooms.

Of course, it needs to be properly stabilized—I fixed the wardrobe to the ceiling with anchors, which feels very secure! It also looks great, especially if you choose doors or sliding doors, or even just open shelving units. I can definitely recommend it, give it a try and don’t be discouraged!

Before purchasing, I would clarify some technical details carefully to avoid problems later on. In principle, PAX wardrobes can definitely be used as room dividers, but there are important points to consider:

- Stability: While a freestanding PAX is generally stable, it risks tipping over under heavier loads. Securing it to the wall or ceiling is therefore recommended.
- Back panel: The standard back panels are usually thin; it might be worth considering using thicker boards (e.g., MDF, plywood) as the back to improve stability and achieve a neat appearance without visible screws.
- Access and passage: Depending on how the wardrobe is positioned, you need to carefully plan the door or drawer opening directions, as these could otherwise obstruct the passage.
- Power and lighting: If the wardrobe divides the room, you should check in advance whether outlets or light switches will be blocked or if you want to retrofit integrated LED lighting inside the wardrobe.

I would be interested to know the exact dimensions and room layout of the original poster, so the options can be considered more specifically.

A PAX unit as a room divider? Definitely a clever idea 😊! It not only provides extra storage but also adds a really cool, personalized touch to your open-plan apartment. Just keep in mind that the wardrobe can look quite bulky – so you might want to consider doors with mirror panels or glass fronts to keep the space feeling light and airy.

Also: if you want to use the wardrobe from both sides, it might be worth thinking about fully closing only one side and leaving the other side open or fitted with shelves. This makes the whole setup more flexible and a bit more dynamic – almost like a piece of furniture that lets the room breathe instead of just dividing it.

Oh, and if you match the color of the wardrobe to the floor and walls, it makes the whole area feel even cozier.

Peose schrieb:
What’s really cool is that you can leave out the back panel and open both sides, which saves a lot of space while still effectively dividing the room.

This is a very important point, thanks for sharing! In addition, I would recommend installing it carefully and securely. Especially with freestanding cabinets used as room dividers, they should be fixed with appropriate brackets to ensure safety.

I also find Laukau5’s tip about using stronger back panels or sturdy boards helpful – this not only increases stability but can also enhance the cabinet as an eye-catching feature.

If you want to use the PAX as a room divider, it’s also worth considering whether the cabinet should serve purely as a partition or be actively equipped with shelves, lighting, and maybe even decorative elements.

If you have any questions about installation or can provide specific room measurements, I’m happy to offer advice.