ᐅ Which Ikea Pax configurations make the most efficient use of space?

I would like to start a discussion about which IKEA PAX combinations make the most efficient use of the available space in a living room or bedroom. I am particularly interested in how different widths, heights, and depths of the individual units can maximize storage capacity without visually overcrowding the room or complicating everyday use. Specifically: which combinations of 50cm (20 inches), 75cm (30 inches), or 100cm (40 inches) wide PAX wardrobes work best for narrower or larger rooms? And how do additional features like interior drawers, shelves, or clothes rails impact overall space utilization? I look forward to your well-informed and as detailed as possible assessments.

Basically, the most efficient use of space with IKEA PAX largely depends on the room size and its intended use. For smaller rooms, 50 cm (20 inches) units are ideal because they can be more flexibly adjusted to walls. In larger rooms, 75 cm (30 inches) and 100 cm (39 inches) units often provide better storage capacity per volume, but this comes at the expense of flexibility and adaptability. Interior drawers and additional shelves practically increase usable space, but be careful not to overload the wardrobe, as this reduces overall clarity. For an optimal combination, I recommend: - Using 50 cm (20 inches) wide modules where the space is narrow or in alcoves - 75 cm (30 inches) modules for main storage areas with clothing and larger items - 100 cm (39 inches) modules only in very spacious rooms or as standalone pieces For interior organization, flexible shelves and adjustable clothes rails are essential to accommodate different types of use.

50cm (20 inches) cabinets are the most versatile. For plenty of storage space, 100cm (40 inches) is recommended. Internal drawers are used for small items.

I think the PAX combinations with several 50cm (20 inches) units are the best because you can always expand them later. And when everyone has their own compartment, it avoids arguments over storage space – basically PAX for peace. 😄 Plus, it makes good use of the space without feeling cramped. The 100cm (39 inches) modules always seem huge and don’t fit as well in smaller rooms.

To use the space most efficiently with PAX, a precise analysis of the room dimensions and primary usage should be done in advance. The combination of 50 cm (20 inch) and 75 cm (30 inch) wardrobe sections is, in practice, optimal for most configurations.

Planning the depth is important: IKEA PAX mainly offers depths of 35 cm (14 inch) and 58 cm (23 inch). For clothing, 58 cm (23 inch) is preferred, as it provides better hanging room and is more comfortable.

For precise space utilization, I recommend the following approach:
- Always design the wardrobe so that the entire wall length is divided into modules of at least 50 cm (20 inch).
- Use 75 cm (30 inch) units for larger clothing items and vases or other decorative objects that are bulkier.
- Avoid 100 cm (39 inch) units solely because they reduce flexibility and building them on narrow walls is more difficult.
- Internal drawers are the most efficient solution for small items, as they significantly improve accessibility and better organize the interior space.

Can anyone specify in more detail how you work with the heights of the PAX wardrobes (201, 236, 268 cm)?

I agree with TEBILO: The depth choice is crucial. A depth of 58 cm (23 inches) is essential for hanging clothes, as otherwise shirts and jackets tend to rub against the wardrobe door.

When it comes to width, keep in mind that 100 cm (39 inches) wide modules are particularly difficult to handle—especially during assembly and cleaning. If possible, it’s better to combine two 50 cm (20 inch) and one 75 cm (30 inch) module to achieve more flexibility.

Besides the wardrobe’s width and depth, the height is important when considering the use of wall cabinets. I often use cabinets that are 236 cm (93 inches) tall because this leaves an additional compartment above for items used less frequently, such as seasonal articles.

One more tip: Internal pull-out drawers make the wardrobe more expensive, but the improved organization and accessibility of small clothing items definitely justify this investment.

TEBILO schrieb:
Can anyone clarify how you work with the heights of the PAX wardrobes (201, 236, 268 cm)?

I mostly use the 236 cm (93 inch) height because 268 cm (106 inch) is simply too tall for a typical household, and 201 cm (79 inch) often doesn’t provide enough storage space.