ᐅ How can I modify Ikea PLATSA furniture to create additional storage space?

Hello everyone, I am looking for ways to modify my Ikea Platsa furniture to create more storage space. The PLATSA series is very versatile, but I am wondering how to best combine or alter the modules to maximize usable interior space. Specifically, I am interested in ideas for converting simple shelving units into cabinets with more compartments or hidden storage areas. Are there any special tips for adding extra shelves, removing back panels, or using decorative trims/add-on modules? I look forward to specific suggestions and also advice on which tools or Ikea accessories are particularly useful for this.

Hello Edensan48, your concern is important because efficient space design often comes from clever furniture modifications. From experience with PLATSA, I recommend customizing the basic modules first with additional shelves – Ikea sells these shelves separately, and they are ideal for optimizing height use.

Additionally, you can work with the internal drawers that fit perfectly into the modules to increase organization and storage. It is important to measure the back panels precisely: sometimes you can partially remove the back panel or replace it with perforated boards to hang accessories, which functionally expands storage.

In terms of tools, a cordless drill, a small hammer, and angle brackets from a hardware store help add stability for modifications. And don’t forget to place the modules on stable bases if you stack them higher to ensure safety.

If you have more specific plans, feel free to share them so I can address details more precisely.

Hello Edensan48, I’m happy to add a small tutorial approach:

- First, measure the internal dimensions of your PLATSA modules carefully. Most compartments have a standard height, but slight adjustments often allow for better use of space.
- Purchase or cut additional shelves. Make sure they have sufficient load capacity to prevent damage.
- Use intermediate shelves to divide taller compartments into two levels – this creates more storage space for smaller items.
- For even better organization, flat boxes or stackable containers work especially well.
- Alternatively, you can replace the back panel with a panel-free mounting (e.g., pegboards or fabric attachments). This way, you can add hooks, pouches, or small shelves.
- Pro tip: Small LED strips inside the modules provide better visibility.

The most important thing is not only to increase storage space but also to keep it accessible and well-organized.

If you need more storage space, use additional shelves and internal drawers. Modifying the back panel offers little extra room. Stack modules to increase height.

gregto schrieb:
Sometimes you can partially remove the back panel or replace it with perforated boards to hang accessories, which functionally increases storage space.

That sounds interesting. Do you mean that even if you remove the back panel, the piece of furniture still maintains enough stability? Or would you need to install additional reinforcements? I’m considering doing this but want to make sure the modules don’t become unstable—especially if I want to stack them.

Also, I’m wondering whether such modifications are tolerated by Ikea or if, for example, the warranty would be voided. Has anyone had any experience with this? Thanks in advance for your insights.

Hello Edensan48,

Edensan48 schrieb:
That sounds interesting. Do you mean that even if you remove the back panel, the piece of furniture still remains stable enough? Or would you need to add extra reinforcements?

That’s a very good question, which is often underestimated. The back panel is actually a crucial part of the stability in PLATSA, as it reduces tipping and twisting forces. If you remove or replace the back panel with something else, you should keep the following points in mind:

- If you add a thin perforated board, choose a sturdy material that is at least 3–4 mm (about 0.1–0.15 inches) thick depending on the material, and secure it with strong screws.
- It may be necessary to install additional internal reinforcements, such as metal angle brackets or solid wooden slats, arranged diagonally or crosswise to replace the back panel.
- Make sure the modules are always screwed and fixed together, especially if you stack them—to prevent wobbling.
- For tall stacks, I always recommend securing the bottom unit carefully and, if possible, fixing it to the wall with brackets to avoid accidents.

Edensan48 schrieb:
Also, I wonder if Ikea tolerates such modifications or if you would lose the warranty, for example.

In general, modifying furniture often voids the manufacturer’s warranty if the damage is directly caused by the alteration. Ikea furniture is designed for modular assembly, but not every modification is officially supported. I would say: as long as you do not remove any essential load-bearing parts and the furniture remains safe, it should be feasible—but the risk is yours.

If in doubt: consider planning with additional shelves and internal drawers or complement the system with suitable access elements instead of completely removing the back panels.

What are the exact PLATSA dimensions you have, and how high do you plan to stack them? That will help with a more precise assessment.