ᐅ How can the Ikea PAX wardrobe system be smartly divided for use by multiple people?

Hello everyone, I am currently planning to divide an Ikea Pax wardrobe for multiple users and want to design it as cleverly as possible. Specifically, three people in a shared apartment will be using the wardrobe together, but each has different needs—such as varying clothing lengths, different amounts of shoes, and accessories like bags or belts that should be stored conveniently and within easy reach.

I am especially interested in how to smartly divide the individual modules internally so that everyone has their own designated area, while still making efficient use of the storage space. Are there proven methods for combining drawers, shelves, and hanging rails? And how can one avoid inefficient use of space caused by poorly chosen solutions?

Is it possible to adapt the system with additional trim pieces, flexible interior fittings, or divider rails to respond flexibly to different usage profiles?

I look forward to your tips and experiences, thank you in advance!

Hello aslanlu44, your topic is really interesting, and I’ll try to address it in more detail.

Basically, when planning a PAX wardrobe, it’s important to first clearly understand the specific needs and usage habits of each person. For example: How often do they wear certain clothes? What types of garments and what volume of shoes and accessories need to be stored? From this, you can then determine the layout of the modules.

I recommend initially dividing the total width of the wardrobe into sections of equal length or width — ideally modules with a width of 50cm (20 inches) or 75cm (30 inches). This way, each user gets their dedicated space. Within these sections, the interior fittings can be customized individually:

- For users with many long garments: tall hanging rods for coats and dresses
- For others who mostly need space for T-shirts and shirts: several shorter rods at different heights
- Drawers and shelves for underwear, socks, or accessories

It’s very practical to work systematically with adjustable inserts — for example, the PAX interior fittings from IKEA, which can be added or reconfigured as needed. If multiple users share the compartments, dividers or well-designed fronts can provide more privacy and organization.

Unfortunately, many overlook the option of using flexible dividing elements that hook into the wall profiles. This allows you to change the height of shelves and rods at any time without completely dismantling the wardrobe.

If you already have dimensions or specific ideas, feel free to add them. That really helps to provide more concrete recommendations.

Basically: divide modules according to user, create fixed zones.

Use drawers for small items.

Longer rods for coats, shorter ones for shirts.

Use dividers to keep items separated.

korosu schrieb:
Install partition walls to keep things separate.

Exactly! When everyone has their own little space, you can avoid relationship stress. 😄 My partner and I share a PAX wardrobe—we each have one side, with more outerwear on my side and more shoes and accessories on hers.

My advice: Don’t plan too small, or searching for things every day becomes frustrating. It’s better to leave some extra room for flexibility. Also, having a little clearance above the shelves makes dusting easier. Sometimes it’s worth using removable baskets and boxes—they make tidying up much easier.

aslanlu44 schrieb:
Are there any proven methods for combining drawers, shelves, and hanging rods?

Here is a more detailed suggestion for the combination:

- Top: A continuous compartment for rarely used items or hanging baskets
- Above that, for each user, a long hanging rod at about 140-150 cm (55-59 inches) height, ideal for jackets and coats
- Below that: a second, lower rod at about 90-100 cm (35-39 inches) for shorter clothing like shirts or T-shirts
- Lower sections with drawers or pull-out boxes for underwear and socks
- Flexible shoe rack or angled shelves for shoes

An extra tip: Use modular systems with click mechanisms, so you can easily adjust them anytime. Storage bags for handbags or belts can also be hung inside the wardrobe to create extra order without taking up much space.

What are your exact space dimensions? Do you already have measurements? And would you possibly like the wardrobe to have doors with different opening styles? That can affect the interior layout.

pautanner schrieb:
If everyone has their own little space, it works without relationship stress.

True. Communication is key. Decide in advance who uses what and how much space.

Then work with clear boundaries and labels if necessary.

And definitely create storage space for shared items when needed.