ᐅ How can Ikea PAX wardrobes be divided for use by different people?
Created on: 26 Jul 2023 18:07
K
KELLSHello everyone,
I am currently facing the challenge of organizing our Ikea PAX wardrobe system in a way that works well for multiple users. Specifically, I’m looking for the best way to divide the compartments, hanging rails, drawers, and shelves to suit different needs, so that, for example, a couple with different storage habits or a shared apartment with several people can both benefit effectively.
Are there any proven methods or principles to design the PAX furniture modularly and flexibly, so that each user has their own practical and accessible space while still saving room? What tips do you have to avoid conflicts when sharing the storage and to maximize functionality? Suggestions regarding suitable inserts or accessories are also welcome!
Thanks in advance for your ideas.
I am currently facing the challenge of organizing our Ikea PAX wardrobe system in a way that works well for multiple users. Specifically, I’m looking for the best way to divide the compartments, hanging rails, drawers, and shelves to suit different needs, so that, for example, a couple with different storage habits or a shared apartment with several people can both benefit effectively.
Are there any proven methods or principles to design the PAX furniture modularly and flexibly, so that each user has their own practical and accessible space while still saving room? What tips do you have to avoid conflicts when sharing the storage and to maximize functionality? Suggestions regarding suitable inserts or accessories are also welcome!
Thanks in advance for your ideas.
Hello KELLS,
that’s a very interesting question you’re raising. The flexibility of the PAX series is definitely an advantage when it comes to meeting individual needs.
My general recommendation is to first analyze the requirements of each user: what types of clothing (long coats versus short shirts), how many pairs of shoes, need for drawers for accessories, and so on. Afterward, I would spatially divide the modules so that each user has at least one complete PAX frame or clearly separated sectional areas, ideally with a visible visual distinction (for example, different front colors or handle styles).
From a technical perspective, it’s also helpful to plan for many narrow drawers for smaller items and as many clothing rods at different heights as possible. This keeps the space very flexible.
What I find most important is the aspect of labeling or marking, which many underestimate: who stores exactly what and where should ideally be clearly communicated to avoid any misunderstandings.
If you need more information about specific inserts, feel free to ask.
that’s a very interesting question you’re raising. The flexibility of the PAX series is definitely an advantage when it comes to meeting individual needs.
My general recommendation is to first analyze the requirements of each user: what types of clothing (long coats versus short shirts), how many pairs of shoes, need for drawers for accessories, and so on. Afterward, I would spatially divide the modules so that each user has at least one complete PAX frame or clearly separated sectional areas, ideally with a visible visual distinction (for example, different front colors or handle styles).
From a technical perspective, it’s also helpful to plan for many narrow drawers for smaller items and as many clothing rods at different heights as possible. This keeps the space very flexible.
What I find most important is the aspect of labeling or marking, which many underestimate: who stores exactly what and where should ideally be clearly communicated to avoid any misunderstandings.
If you need more information about specific inserts, feel free to ask.
K
Keatondra26 Jul 2023 19:05Hello KELLS and blapau,
I would like to add my experience on this topic, especially because when arranging PAX furniture, the flexibility can often be pushed to its limits, and overlaps can occur.
The first step, in my opinion, should be to sort the existing clothing and other items into categories. You can generally proceed as follows:
- Clothing by type (e.g., tops, pants, dresses)
- Accessories (scarves, belts, jewelry)
- Shoes by type or frequency of use
- Seasonal items separated
Afterwards, it is useful, for example, to reserve drawers just for small items that you need to have quickly accessible, and to use different heights for hanging rods for long and short clothing.
For multiple users, it helps a lot to create separation with partition panels or a combination with room dividers in or around the wardrobe—this way, everyone gets a clearly defined space. Accessories like shelves, drawers with dividers, or hooks can also make the division significantly easier.
Regarding the size of the PAX section, you should orient yourself based on the clothing: if one user mainly stores coats, a taller wardrobe section with a hanging rod makes sense. If someone has many T-shirts, more shelves and drawers are useful.
I hope this helps a bit!
I would like to add my experience on this topic, especially because when arranging PAX furniture, the flexibility can often be pushed to its limits, and overlaps can occur.
The first step, in my opinion, should be to sort the existing clothing and other items into categories. You can generally proceed as follows:
- Clothing by type (e.g., tops, pants, dresses)
- Accessories (scarves, belts, jewelry)
- Shoes by type or frequency of use
- Seasonal items separated
Afterwards, it is useful, for example, to reserve drawers just for small items that you need to have quickly accessible, and to use different heights for hanging rods for long and short clothing.
For multiple users, it helps a lot to create separation with partition panels or a combination with room dividers in or around the wardrobe—this way, everyone gets a clearly defined space. Accessories like shelves, drawers with dividers, or hooks can also make the division significantly easier.
Regarding the size of the PAX section, you should orient yourself based on the clothing: if one user mainly stores coats, a taller wardrobe section with a hanging rod makes sense. If someone has many T-shirts, more shelves and drawers are useful.
I hope this helps a bit!
Hello everyone,
I would like to explore this topic further because several technical aspects regarding the configuration of PAX furniture seem important to me and often cause practical problems if overlooked.
First of all, I recommend visualizing the planned layout using a detailed sketch or a planning tool. You should follow these steps:
- Measure the available space precisely and compare it to the dimensions of the PAX modules.
- Create an overview of the usage and needs of each user (e.g., number of garments, preferred storage types).
- Consider the maximum load capacity of shelves and drawers (these can sometimes bend under excessive weight).
- Use adjustable shelves to optimize depth usage – the heavier the item, the shallower the depth should be.
- Look for accessories such as drawer dividers or specialized basket inserts to organize small items.
- Important: Work with clear spatial boundaries, meaning divide the wardrobe so that no one can accidentally access someone else’s belongings. This can also be supported by doors with different opening directions.
If you like, please describe in more detail how many people will be using the wardrobe and what kinds of clothing will be stored so I can provide more specific advice on the interior layout.
From my perspective, a communication rule is also helpful: review the layout together at least once a year to see if it still fits your needs or requires adjustment – this helps everyone stay flexible.
I would like to explore this topic further because several technical aspects regarding the configuration of PAX furniture seem important to me and often cause practical problems if overlooked.
First of all, I recommend visualizing the planned layout using a detailed sketch or a planning tool. You should follow these steps:
- Measure the available space precisely and compare it to the dimensions of the PAX modules.
- Create an overview of the usage and needs of each user (e.g., number of garments, preferred storage types).
- Consider the maximum load capacity of shelves and drawers (these can sometimes bend under excessive weight).
- Use adjustable shelves to optimize depth usage – the heavier the item, the shallower the depth should be.
- Look for accessories such as drawer dividers or specialized basket inserts to organize small items.
- Important: Work with clear spatial boundaries, meaning divide the wardrobe so that no one can accidentally access someone else’s belongings. This can also be supported by doors with different opening directions.
If you like, please describe in more detail how many people will be using the wardrobe and what kinds of clothing will be stored so I can provide more specific advice on the interior layout.
From my perspective, a communication rule is also helpful: review the layout together at least once a year to see if it still fits your needs or requires adjustment – this helps everyone stay flexible.
TEBILO schrieb:
If you like, please describe in more detail how many people will use the wardrobe and what types of clothing will be stored, so I can give more specific advice on the interior layout.Gladly! There are two users: my partner and me. I mostly have many shorter garments like shirts, t-shirts, blouses, and drawers for underwear and accessories, while my partner mainly needs to store long coats and some sports gear there (e.g., ski clothing, cycling gear). Shoes are stored fairly separately, so that doesn’t need to be a main focus in the PAX.
The wardrobe will be placed in a room that also serves as a guest room, which limits the ceiling height, and I’m considering whether each of us should have a separate section and how to best manage that technically.
KELLS schrieb:
I mostly have shorter clothing items like shirts, T-shirts, blouses, and drawers for underwear and accessories, while my partner mainly needs space for long coats and some sports gear (e.g., ski clothing, cycling equipment).Thanks for the details; that really helps!
One possible solution could be:
- Two PAX frames placed side by side, if space allows, each with its own section. This also makes opening easier and prevents conflicts.
- In your section, I would install several short hanging rods at different heights and plan many drawers with dividers. Additionally, adjustable shelves that can be repositioned help maintain flexibility.
- For your partner’s long coats, a tall wardrobe section with at least one continuous hanging rod should be planned.
- Sports equipment usually requires spacious shelves or possibly baskets, as these items tend to be bulky but not necessarily suitable for hanging.
- If guest room needs are a factor, I would recommend doors with mirrors to visually enlarge the space.
- Make sure to plan the door opening directions so you don’t block each other when opening.
It’s also important to consider “interior fittings” from third-party suppliers that work well with the PAX system and might help optimize storage space.
How large is the room exactly, and what is the ceiling height there?
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