ᐅ How can I turn a Pax corner unit into a practical corner shelf?

Hello everyone, I have a rather specific question regarding IKEA’s PAX systems. I’m planning to make the most of an unused corner niche with a PAX corner cabinet because currently this area is only being used halfheartedly. My idea is to turn this corner into a practical corner shelf that provides storage space while also looking appealing.

My main issue is that the standard PAX corner units tend to be cabinet-heavy and not very flexible, but I’m thinking more along the lines of open shelves or at least partly open elements to store books, decorations, or everyday items.

Does anyone have experience with turning a typical PAX corner into a functional and easily accessible corner shelf? Which components work best, do you need to modify anything, and what should I pay special attention to regarding stability and accessibility in the corner area?

I look forward to your ideas, tips, or solutions!

giizzy schrieb:
I’m planning to make the most of my unused corner niche with a PAX corner wardrobe

Hi giizzy!
Regarding converting a PAX corner into shelving: it’s definitely doable and can even be fun. If I were you, I’d try a mix of closed and open elements.

- Use the PAX corner frames and add glass or wooden shelves at the front
- You can close off the back of the corner with a back panel, which adds stability
- Adjustable shelves with flexible brackets are great because they let you fit different sizes of books or baskets

A little tip: if you’re feeling bold, you can even leave the doors off to give the whole thing a lighter look.

Good luck with your project! 😉

giizzy schrieb:
My main issue is that the standard corner units of PAX are often cabinet-heavy and not very flexible

If your main goal is storage space with good accessibility, you should consider the following points:

- Standard corner PAX units usually come with hinged doors and corner carousels, which are not ideal for an open shelving look.
- Open shelves are better, which you can install at suitable intervals using additional PAX shelf supports.
- Make sure the corner frames are securely mounted, ideally with a back panel, to prevent the shelving from wobbling.
- One option is to combine two smaller PAX units at a right angle to create a clever corner shelving structure.

During installation, pay special attention to load distribution, as corner areas often experience peak loads.

giizzy schrieb:
Does anyone have experience turning a typical PAX corner unit into a functional and easily accessible corner shelf?

I’ll explain in more detail:

1. IKEA offers specific corner frames (130x130 cm (51x51 inches)) for PAX systems, but these are designed as closed cabinets.
2. To create an open shelf, you should remove the doors and install sturdy shelves instead. Use the adjustable metal brackets that are specially made for PAX.
3. It is important not to completely remove the back panels – they are essential for the side stability. If you want open backs, you can use thin plywood panels and reinforce the edges for added strength.
4. Pay attention to the following assembly details:
- The connection between the two corner frames should be secured tightly with brackets or the IKEA cam fittings.
- Always fix the shelf to the wall, otherwise the corner will be unstable.
5. For better accessibility, you can also use so-called LeMans corner cabinet inserts or pull-out carcases that use hinge systems to optimize storage space.

One more question for you: What are the exact dimensions of the corner area, and what load or weight capacity is relevant for you (e.g., heavy books or light décor)? This will help when planning the shelf thickness.

minan schrieb:
Be sure to secure the shelf to the wall, as the corner alone is not stable.

Absolutely, that’s something many people underestimate.

Additionally, I would recommend installing LEDs or small spotlights in the shelves, especially if you want to use the corner as shelving for books or decorations. This not only enhances the appearance but also greatly improves visibility.

And if you don’t use doors, be aware that dust will accumulate a bit faster. But hey, you get easier access and an open atmosphere. You’ll just need to dust a little more often. 😅