ᐅ Experience with Kallax as storage shelving under a staircase?

Created on: 6 May 2022 09:22
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Bopau56
Hello everyone,

I am currently planning to reorganize the storage space under my staircase and am considering using the Kallax shelving system from IKEA as storage shelves there. Therefore, I am very interested in hearing about your experiences with Kallax installed under a staircase.

Specifically, I am curious about how stable the shelves are in this unusual space, whether they adapt well to the partially sloped surfaces, and what methods you have used to make the best use of the shelves’ height and depth. It would also be helpful to know about the load capacity, especially when storing heavy items.

Are there any issues with installation, particularly regarding wall mounting? And how does it work when combining multiple Kallax units?

I look forward to your answers and advice, including practical tips!
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Bopau56
8 May 2022 09:30
BENBI schrieb:
What options do you have for wall mounting? Are the walls brick or drywall?

The walls are brick, so mounting should generally be quite feasible.
BENBI schrieb:
A tip: If you combine several modules, it’s best to use sturdy connecting brackets to reinforce the structure.

Do you have recommendations for specific fastening materials or techniques? I’d prefer not to damage the surface, but I’m also concerned the shelves might be unstable if I don’t add extra support.

Thanks in advance for the detailed information, it’s very helpful.
J
Josefane
8 May 2022 11:14
Bopau56 schrieb:
Do you have any recommendations for specific fixing materials or techniques? I prefer not to damage the surface, but I’m also concerned that the shelves might be unstable

In general, it’s always a good idea to create a straight and secure connection between the shelf and the wall. For a masonry wall, a combination of universal anchors and screws usually works reliably.

However, I wonder if you have already checked whether the Kallax system alone really provides the load capacity and stability you need under the stairs.

Especially with irregular constructions like a slant under the stairs, the effort to customize can quickly become greater than the benefit if everything is not fully stable in the end.

Perhaps a custom-built solution made from precisely measured wood is worth considering, especially if you have very irregular angles. Although this is more labor-intensive, it is usually more durable and better adaptable in the long run.

How important is flexibility versus load capacity in your case?
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dijan
9 May 2022 08:07
I think using Kallax under the stairs is a really cool idea! 😎
Josefane schrieb:
Maybe a custom-built solution from precisely measured wood is worth considering

Sure, DIY is great, but with a bit of creativity and craftsmanship, you can also customize Kallax very well. Just trim the back panel, adjust the side panels, and securely fasten everything with brackets.

And don’t worry about stability: if you screw the units to the wall and connect them to each other, it will hold up perfectly. The biggest advantage is the modularity – if you want to rearrange later, no problem.

Also, the white square compartments of Kallax make a real statement and fit almost anywhere.

Have fun tinkering! 😉