ᐅ KALLAX compartments appear to be different sizes – is this normal?

Hello everyone,

I recently bought a KALLAX shelving unit from IKEA and assigned different compartments to store boxes and books. I noticed that some compartments appear visually different in size, even though the product description lists the same dimensions for all of them. Could this be due to manufacturing tolerances, or is this perception more related to the arrangement of the compartments or the viewing angle? What has been your experience – is it normal for KALLAX compartments to look different even though they should be identical according to the technical specifications? Thanks for your insights!

TOMKLA schrieb:
Is it normal for KALLAX compartments to appear different in size, even though they should be identical according to the technical specifications?

The perception of compartments appearing different in size is usually an optical illusion. KALLAX shelves are manufactured according to precise dimensions, with minimal production tolerances that are strictly controlled by IKEA. Variations in perception can result from ambient lighting, shadows, or the way items are placed inside the compartments. Viewing angles also play a significant role. However, if you notice visible deviations in measurements, exchanging the unit would be advisable.

I know that feeling! For me, the shelves sometimes look completely different depending on how the boxes are arranged inside. 😄 But as Dopoki says: the dimensions really should be the same! I just used boxes in different colors – it distracts a bit and even looks cool 🙂 Give it a try!

Dopoki schrieb:
Different perceptions can arise from ambient lighting, shadows, or the type of embedded items.

I think that’s quite important to emphasize as well. At first, I really had concerns because the shelf looked so uneven, which was a bit frustrating. But after viewing it in different lighting and rearranging some things, everything seemed balanced again. Sometimes our own perception can play tricks on us, especially when we have certain expectations. I hope you find a solution that feels right for you too!

When shelves appear uneven, it is usually due to perspective. Place the shelf on a level surface and check it with a measuring tape. If everything is correct: no problem.

SUPE2 schrieb:
Place the shelf on a level surface and check it with a tape measure.

Thanks for the tip, SUPE2! I carefully checked and measured the shelf again on a perfectly level surface. The width and height of the individual compartments are indeed identical, but I now notice that boxes with different depths and various stored items visually change the proportions.

todunar schrieb:
I just used boxes in different colors – that distracts a bit and even looks cool 🙂

That sounds like an interesting idea, I’ll give it a try! Maybe it really helps to balance the perception. Thanks to all of you for the helpful answers!