ᐅ What is the best way to install Ikea Pax wardrobes in small apartments?
Created on: 24 Nov 2024 18:47
Z
ZekedaHello everyone,
I am currently facing the challenge of assembling an Ikea Pax wardrobe in a very small apartment (about 30 sqm (320 sq ft)) and trying to fit it in as space-efficiently as possible. Since the rooms are quite cramped, I wanted to ask about your experiences: What is the best way to assemble Ikea Pax wardrobes in small apartments?
I have already considered whether it makes sense to fully build the carcass in the hallway or a corner beforehand and then move it inside, or if it is smarter to partially assemble the individual parts inside the apartment to save space. Are there any tips or tricks for working efficiently with limited space during assembly?
I am also interested in advice on making use of ceiling height, dealing with tight door openings, and securely fixing the wardrobe to usually thin walls (drywall). What experiences do you have that make assembly easier in small apartments, and which tools or aids are particularly helpful?
Thank you very much for your feedback!
I am currently facing the challenge of assembling an Ikea Pax wardrobe in a very small apartment (about 30 sqm (320 sq ft)) and trying to fit it in as space-efficiently as possible. Since the rooms are quite cramped, I wanted to ask about your experiences: What is the best way to assemble Ikea Pax wardrobes in small apartments?
I have already considered whether it makes sense to fully build the carcass in the hallway or a corner beforehand and then move it inside, or if it is smarter to partially assemble the individual parts inside the apartment to save space. Are there any tips or tricks for working efficiently with limited space during assembly?
I am also interested in advice on making use of ceiling height, dealing with tight door openings, and securely fixing the wardrobe to usually thin walls (drywall). What experiences do you have that make assembly easier in small apartments, and which tools or aids are particularly helpful?
Thank you very much for your feedback!
Hi Zekeda,
I can really help you with this, as I installed a Pax wardrobe myself in a small apartment and faced similar challenges. In my opinion, the key is planning before the actual assembly.
First, you should carefully measure the width, depth, and especially the height of your room, taking into account all door frames and windows that might restrict transport. In small apartments, a tape measure is your best friend.
Regarding assembly, I recommend this order:
- Move the loose parts into the tightest corner of the apartment you can choose.
- Assemble the carcass only enough to get it through your doors – usually, it’s best to start with just the side panels and back panel. If the wardrobe is too tall, you can also assemble it in sections and attach the top fixing later.
This provides flexibility if the passage is really narrow. Another important point is to make use of the ceiling height. Ikea offers different height options – if your ceilings are high, go for a taller carcass and perhaps narrower widths to balance the proportions.
For fixing the wardrobe to drywall, I recommend using special wall anchors designed for plasterboard. Make sure to secure the wardrobe to the wall, especially in small rooms where you might accidentally bump into it. Safety comes first!
Tools: A cordless drill with a depth stop is very useful, as is having a second person to help with handling. If you’re working alone, take your time and consider using strong furniture straps or tension belts to prevent the carcass from tipping over.
One quick question for you: How many doors or tight corners do you need to navigate during transport? And do you have enough space to temporarily store the parts before assembly?
I hope this gives you a good starting point!
I can really help you with this, as I installed a Pax wardrobe myself in a small apartment and faced similar challenges. In my opinion, the key is planning before the actual assembly.
First, you should carefully measure the width, depth, and especially the height of your room, taking into account all door frames and windows that might restrict transport. In small apartments, a tape measure is your best friend.
Regarding assembly, I recommend this order:
- Move the loose parts into the tightest corner of the apartment you can choose.
- Assemble the carcass only enough to get it through your doors – usually, it’s best to start with just the side panels and back panel. If the wardrobe is too tall, you can also assemble it in sections and attach the top fixing later.
This provides flexibility if the passage is really narrow. Another important point is to make use of the ceiling height. Ikea offers different height options – if your ceilings are high, go for a taller carcass and perhaps narrower widths to balance the proportions.
For fixing the wardrobe to drywall, I recommend using special wall anchors designed for plasterboard. Make sure to secure the wardrobe to the wall, especially in small rooms where you might accidentally bump into it. Safety comes first!
Tools: A cordless drill with a depth stop is very useful, as is having a second person to help with handling. If you’re working alone, take your time and consider using strong furniture straps or tension belts to prevent the carcass from tipping over.
One quick question for you: How many doors or tight corners do you need to navigate during transport? And do you have enough space to temporarily store the parts before assembly?
I hope this gives you a good starting point!
Palenar schrieb:
Assemble the main frame only enough so that it fits through your doors – usually, it’s best to start by putting together just the side panels and the back panel.This is the best advice here. I would add: attach the doors only at the very end, so you have more room to handle the pieces. And if the space is very tight, don’t lay the cabinet completely flat on the floor during assembly; instead, work with it leaning against the wall.
Another detailed addition on the topic "What is the best way to assemble Ikea Pax wardrobes in small apartments?" – especially when space is very limited and there are often only narrow hallways or door openings available:
- Preparation: Besides measuring, it is very helpful to plan exactly how the wardrobe will be positioned before starting assembly. It often pays off to clear the installation area to make the assembly space as generous as possible.
- Assembly sequence: Assemble the carcass in the largest possible sections that can fit through the doors. Fully assembling the wardrobe outside the room is often impossible. A clear recommendation is to attach the load-bearing side panels first, then fix the back panel – this provides stability to the carcass.
- Transporting the carcass: If you have two people, carefully carry the almost finished carcass into the target room. If you are working alone, using furniture rollers or a sturdy board under the wardrobe can help make the transport smoother.
- Installing interior elements: Ideally, install drawers, clothes rails, or shelves completely inside the room, as there is usually more room to work.
- Wall anchoring: For drywall, be sure to use suitable expanding cavity anchors. Alternatively, securing the wardrobe with angle brackets that offer more bearing surface and greater stability is possible. Also, pay attention to proper anchoring – brackets should be screwed at least into the studs behind the wall.
- Managing limited space: Another tip is to leave about 1–2 cm (0.4–0.8 inches) between the wardrobe and the wall before installing the back panel. This gives you more room for adjustments during fitting.
- Tools: Keep your drill, plane, and spirit level within easy reach. Having a helper is really valuable, especially when narrow passages become obstacles.
How high are the ceilings in your apartment? Are you already making use of the maximum height options with Pax? Are you attaching the wardrobe to less solid walls or directly to load-bearing ones? Such details can change even the best assembly instructions.
- Preparation: Besides measuring, it is very helpful to plan exactly how the wardrobe will be positioned before starting assembly. It often pays off to clear the installation area to make the assembly space as generous as possible.
- Assembly sequence: Assemble the carcass in the largest possible sections that can fit through the doors. Fully assembling the wardrobe outside the room is often impossible. A clear recommendation is to attach the load-bearing side panels first, then fix the back panel – this provides stability to the carcass.
- Transporting the carcass: If you have two people, carefully carry the almost finished carcass into the target room. If you are working alone, using furniture rollers or a sturdy board under the wardrobe can help make the transport smoother.
- Installing interior elements: Ideally, install drawers, clothes rails, or shelves completely inside the room, as there is usually more room to work.
- Wall anchoring: For drywall, be sure to use suitable expanding cavity anchors. Alternatively, securing the wardrobe with angle brackets that offer more bearing surface and greater stability is possible. Also, pay attention to proper anchoring – brackets should be screwed at least into the studs behind the wall.
- Managing limited space: Another tip is to leave about 1–2 cm (0.4–0.8 inches) between the wardrobe and the wall before installing the back panel. This gives you more room for adjustments during fitting.
- Tools: Keep your drill, plane, and spirit level within easy reach. Having a helper is really valuable, especially when narrow passages become obstacles.
How high are the ceilings in your apartment? Are you already making use of the maximum height options with Pax? Are you attaching the wardrobe to less solid walls or directly to load-bearing ones? Such details can change even the best assembly instructions.
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