ᐅ How can I make the best use of Ikea PAX wardrobes in small apartments?

Created on: 5 May 2021 08:37
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FIRA70
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FIRA70
5 May 2021 08:37
Hello everyone,

I will soon be moving into a very small apartment and plan to use the Ikea PAX system to maximize storage space in a limited area. I am especially interested in how to use the PAX wardrobes efficiently and space-savingly in small apartments without making the room feel cramped. Does anyone have experience with specific construction methods, smart interior fittings, or combinations with other furniture that make the whole setup particularly efficient and functional?

I look forward to your tips and practical advice on how to make the most of the PAX system in small apartments, including variable interior options, door types, and overall space utilization.
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gekira
5 May 2021 09:14
Hello FIRA70,

To make the most of the PAX system in small apartments, I recommend focusing clearly on the internal organization of the wardrobes. Based on my experience, the following points are crucial:

- Use adjustable internal fittings such as drawers, shelves, and hanging rails strategically to utilize every cubic centimeter (cubic inch) efficiently.
- Sliding doors save space compared to regular hinged doors, as they do not require extra clearance when opened.
- Extend the wardrobe into previously unused corners or niches, for example with a corner solution or built up to the ceiling, to fully maximize storage capacity.
- Internal LED lighting helps to keep the contents clearly visible and prevents mistakes in purchases or misplacement of items.

Careful planning before purchase, ideally using the IKEA PAX planner, is essential to avoid losing space later due to ordering errors.
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vin_leo
5 May 2021 11:02
Hello!

I think PAX wardrobes are almost like magical transformers 🎩✨ in small rooms—if you use them the right way!

My advice: Combine open shelving units instead of having doors everywhere. This adds some airiness and lightness. And since every square centimeter counts in a small space, definitely choose sliding doors; otherwise, the whole room quickly ends up cluttered with door swings! 😅

Another tip: Place small boxes or baskets on top to store items you rarely use. Use big boxes at the bottom for shoes or similar things. This way, everything is within easy reach without looking messy.

Good luck, and don’t let the “tiny stuff madness” overwhelm you!
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tolokau
5 May 2021 13:47
Hello everyone,

I would like to share a brief guide on how to efficiently plan and furnish the PAX wardrobe system in small apartments to maximize its use:

1. Optimize dimensions: Measure the ceiling height precisely and plan wardrobes up to the ceiling to fully utilize storage space. Typical ceiling heights of 2.40 m (7 ft 10 in) can be well covered with PAX modules (220 or 236 cm (7 ft 3 in or 7 ft 9 in)), possibly supplemented with a top panel.

2. Choose interior fittings: Use hanging rods both at the top and bottom to accommodate different types of clothing. Add adjustable shelves, drawers with compartments, and removable boxes.

3. Use shelves strategically: Not all shelves need the same height – lower compartments work well for shoes or accessories.

4. Consider door types: Sliding doors save space, while roller shutters or open storage solutions improve accessibility. Note: sliding doors require a longer wall section.

5. Additional elements: Hooks, LED lighting, and mirrors on the inside of doors are small helpers that save floor space.

6. Possible custom installations: If possible, PAX can be adapted to fit wall recesses to make optimal use of room niches.

Most importantly: plan carefully in advance so that the wardrobe fits your space perfectly and no valuable floor area is wasted.
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Israel62
6 May 2021 07:36
Use sliding doors instead of hinged doors.
Plan the wardrobe up to the ceiling.
Design the interior fittings to be as flexible as possible.
Use storage space in niches.
This way, you are on the safe side.
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Dopoki
6 May 2021 10:15
tolokau schrieb:
1. Optimize measurements: Measure the ceiling height precisely and plan cabinets up to the ceiling to maximize storage space.

This is a very important point. Often, only standard sizes are purchased, even though small adjustments could create much more space.
gekira schrieb:
Sliding doors save space compared to regular hinged doors, as they don’t require extra clearance when opened.

To add: In very tight spaces, it’s worth considering different types of sliding doors (e.g., semi-glazed or mirrored), as they can also improve the sense of space.

Additionally: If stability allows, back panels can sometimes be omitted, enabling access to storage from both sides. This is a clever trick, especially in small apartments with narrow hallways.

All in all: Good planning is essential; only then does PAX really make sense in a small space.