ᐅ How can I best plan IKEA PAX wardrobes for tight spaces?

I am currently planning to get a Pax wardrobe from Ikea for my small bedroom, but I’m facing the challenge of how to best design these usually quite wide wardrobes for really tight spaces. My area is about 1.50 meters wide (5 feet) and only 60 cm deep (24 inches), so very narrow. I’m wondering how to maximize storage without making the room feel completely cluttered or significantly restricting movement. Does anyone have specific tips for planning, for example regarding wardrobe depths, internal layouts, or clever combinations of materials? Ideas about open storage versus closed doors are also welcome. It’s important to me that the wardrobe remains functional, does not look too bulky, and fits well into a small room.

Hello Nathaliemo,

Your question about the optimal planning of a PAX wardrobe in tight spaces is very relevant because many underestimate how much storage design depends on the room itself. Here is a structured approach for you:

- Measuring: Measure precisely, including uneven walls, doors, electrical outlets, and radiators.
- Choosing depth: PAX wardrobes come in depths of 35 cm and 58 cm (14 inches and 23 inches). For narrow spaces, the 35 cm (14 inches) option is definitely recommended. It is slimmer yet still provides enough space for hanging clothes, especially if you use shorter items or folded garments.
- Interior layout: Adjustable shelves, drawers, and hanging rods allow for various configurations. My advice: use a combination of drawers for small items and double-tier hanging rods to make the most of the vertical space.
- Doors: Sliding doors are ideal for tight rooms because they don’t require swing space. If that’s not possible, consider open shelving units, which feel lighter, or folding doors.
- Appearance: Light colors, smooth fronts, and minimalist handles help prevent the wardrobe from feeling bulky. Mirror elements inside or outside can also visually enlarge the space.

Avoid the maximum width in such small areas; instead, opt for several smaller modules placed side by side. I hope this helps you so far! If you like, I can also share examples of layouts.

A depth of 35cm (14 inches) is best for small rooms. Use sliding doors whenever possible. Inside, you can use double clothes rails to save space.

Thank you already for the initial advice!

LANICOLE, your detailed explanation is really helpful, especially the idea of double hanging rods and the recommendation for light colors, which are new and important to me. However, I have another question: My ceiling height is 2.35 m (7 ft 9 in), and I would like to make full use of the vertical space. Are there PAX wardrobe modules or extensions that allow this without making the wardrobes look too bulky? I’m also considering installing the wardrobe up to the ceiling—but what if it becomes difficult to reach the less frequently used areas? Are there practical solutions for this in such small rooms?

Nathaliemo schrieb:
Are there PAX wardrobe modules or extensions that allow this without making the wardrobes look too bulky?

Hello Nathaliemo,

The PAX series actually offers different heights: the standard is 201 cm (79 inches), but there are also 236 cm (93 inches) tall frames, which are ideal for your room height. I think it’s great that you want to use vertical space—that’s often the key in small rooms.

Regarding access to the top level: there are pull-out baskets and boxes that you can easily slide out. A small pull-out ladder or a sturdy step stool can also help with reaching higher shelves. If that’s not an option, the upper compartments are perfect for seldom-used items like seasonal clothing or suitcases.

If you’re concerned about the bulkiness of tall wardrobes, using light colors and narrow modules can help reduce that effect. A good alternative is an open PAX frame system with fabric or Roman blinds as covers—which looks much lighter overall.

I hope these tips help you make the most of your small space.

Making full use of the cabinet height is good, but also plan enough clearance in front of the cabinet so you can open it comfortably. Otherwise, it will become annoying.