ᐅ How can I assemble Pax wardrobes in a space-saving way for small apartments?

Hello everyone,

I own a small apartment with a floor area of about 25 sqm (270 sq ft) and I am planning to install an Ikea Pax wardrobe system. Since the space is very limited, I am wondering: How can I assemble my Pax system in the most effective and space-saving way to make the best use of the available space, maximize storage capacity, and still maintain functionality and accessibility?

I am especially interested in tips and tricks for choosing the right modules, their arrangement, as well as innovative ideas for interior fittings that are specifically designed for small apartments.

Perhaps some of you have experience with situations like this or could suggest ways to use the depth or height of the cabinets most cleverly without overcrowding the room. For me, factors such as ventilation and easy assembly are also important.

I look forward to constructive and practical answers!

Basically, in small apartments, it is important to fully utilize the ceiling height whenever possible. Pax units typically come in heights of 201 cm (79 inches) and 236 cm (93 inches), with the taller option providing more storage space.

- Use narrow frames (e.g., 50 cm (20 inches) wide) instead of wide modules to reduce the footprint and allow the wardrobe to fit better into tight niches.
- Customize the interior: Take advantage of the variety of narrow shelves, drawers, and clothes rails to create different storage options within a small floor area.
- Corner solutions can be very economical. If your apartment has a corner, specifically consider corner Pax modules or combine two narrow wardrobes to make effective use of the corner space.
- Avoid doors with wide opening angles to maintain freedom of movement in the room (sliding doors are also an option but require minor adjustments for wall mounting).
- Also consider adding accessories like closed boxes or compartments for small items, which help keep things organized and improve visibility.

Ventilation is generally not an issue with Pax units, as they are not completely airtight constructions. Correct wall mounting is essential during installation because the tall units are also important for safety.

These factors help to use the Pax system effectively in small apartments.

I would like to share some practical steps for installing the Pax wardrobe space-efficiently in small apartments:

1. Planning with a room planner: Use the Ikea Pax planner or another 3D planning tool to virtually model your apartment with the wardrobe first. This way, you can identify clearances, tight spots, and possible collisions with furniture.

2. Modular construction: Avoid one large continuous unit; instead, combine several narrow modules. This allows you more flexibility for reconfigurations later or easier transport during moves.

3. Incorporate ceiling height: You can plan for a lockable shelf or small storage boxes above the wardrobe, between it and the ceiling. This uses dead vertical space effectively without obstructing the sightlines.

4. Optimize interior organization: Focus on flexible divisions such as adjustable shelves, pull-out baskets, and multi-level hanging rails to organize the space efficiently.

5. Adapt doors: Sliding doors save space but require a flat wall and some installation effort. Hinged doors are easier to install but need room to swing open. If you primarily use drawers and baskets, you can also choose to leave the wardrobe open, which visually reduces its footprint.

6. Use niches and corners: If you have wall closets or small recesses, Pax units can sometimes be installed partially there or tailored to fit precisely.

Common mistakes I see: Planning only for the wardrobe’s outer dimensions without considering the interior layout, which later makes the organization impractical. This is especially problematic for small apartments. So it’s better to first carefully consider what and how much you want to store, then configure the wardrobe accordingly.

Haugu schrieb:
I’m particularly interested in tips and tricks for choosing the right modules and their arrangement

Regarding module choice: 50cm (20 inches) wide modules are more flexible than 100cm (39 inches) ones; 35cm (14 inches) deep units save space compared to 58cm (23 inches) but offer less storage volume. Sometimes you mix depths, for example, placing shallower modules next to deeper ones in one row for coats and dresses.

I hope this helps with your planning!

Benge5 schrieb:
Ventilation is generally not an issue with Pax, as they are not completely airtight constructions.

I would like to add that in small apartments, there is often a psychological aspect when setting up a wardrobe: The unit should not only be functional but also appear as visually light as possible to avoid making the space feel cramped.

In my small apartment, I used Pax, and instead of doors, I opted for open modules with fabric bins. This creates a more airy feel and can be easily rearranged as needed.

Another tip is to choose lighter colors. White or light gray tones help make a small apartment feel more spacious. This also applies to the interior fittings.

Guyju schrieb:
A common mistake I see is planning only the overall dimensions of the wardrobe without considering the interior, which later results in an impractical layout.

I agree with this, as initially I was tempted to just create as much storage space as possible—but without good compartmentalization, it doesn’t work well. My advice is to carefully write down everything you want to store and how much space each type of item needs before buying. This way, the wardrobe will truly be practical.

Assembly is also easier if you pre-sort the modules and don’t assemble everything at once, which helps maintain clarity.

Hello Haugu,

I’m in a similar situation with my small apartment, and I can really understand how frustrating it can be when you need a lot of storage but have limited space.

What worked for me is a combination of a few small Pax shelves together with a multipurpose storage unit for the bedroom that I can use flexibly.

I actually considered leaving out doors because I was worried that they might make the room feel too cramped – but in the end, doors give the wardrobe a uniform look and protect clothes from dust.

Then I thought about using a single sliding door so I could keep one side open for quick access to my belongings without blocking the whole room.

I’m reading all your tips here with great interest because I’m always on the lookout for clever ideas to make the most of small spaces while keeping them cozy.

semuneo schrieb:
I have used Pax in my small apartment, and instead of doors, I used open modules with fabric boxes. It feels airier and can be adjusted flexibly as needed.

That sounds interesting, maybe I’ll try that too when I rearrange things a bit. What do you think about the dust issue with open modules? I’m not sure about that.

Thanks for the helpful contributions so far!