Living in a smaller house doesn’t mean sacrificing style or storage. Many UK homeowners are turning to creative solutions to maximise their bedroom space. One popular method involves transforming standard storage units into sleek, built-in designs.
The PAX system offers a flexible way to achieve this. Unlike traditional walk-in closets, which require significant floor space, these modular units fit snugly against walls. A recent example saw a couple add 136 inches of linear storage in their downsized room—matching the capacity of a larger wardrobe.
What makes this approach stand out? It’s cost-effective compared to custom-built options. With simple additions like trim and paint, the finished look blends seamlessly into any space. The result? A clutter-free, stylish bedroom without the hefty price tag.
Key Takeaways
- PAX systems provide adaptable storage for compact homes.
- Wall-mounted designs save floor space compared to walk-in closets.
- Linear storage solutions can match larger wardrobe capacities.
- Affordable customisation options include trim and paint finishes.
- Built-in aesthetics elevate the room’s overall design.
Why Choose an IKEA Wardrobe Hack?
Transform your bedroom storage without breaking the bank. The IKEA PAX system has been a go-to for over 15 years, offering modular designs that grow with your needs. Whether you’re in a compact flat or a terraced house, these solutions adapt seamlessly.
Benefits of customising modular units
Flexibility is key. Adjust shelves, drawers, and hanging rails as your storage needs evolve—no need for costly replacements. Lindsey Bird’s alcove project proves the point: her £1,500 savings versus bespoke joinery funded a holiday!
Another perk? Portability. Unlike built-in options, PAX components move with you. One family reused theirs across three homes, filling minor gaps with trim to suit UK ceiling heights.
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Cost-effective vs. built-in wardrobes
“Fitted wardrobes quoted me £3,000. My PAX hack cost £550, including paint and handles.”
- Budget-friendly: PAX units start at £300, while custom designs often exceed £3,000.
- Time-saving: Assemble in hours, not weeks.
- Design control: Choose finishes that match your decor perfectly.
Planning Your IKEA Wardrobe Hack
Smart storage solutions start with careful planning. Whether you’re fitting cabinets into an alcove or along a blank wall, precise measurements ensure a seamless finish. A laser measure helps account for skirting boards and cornices—often overlooked but critical for a snug fit.
Measuring Your Space Accurately
Don’t guess—measure twice. For alcoves, timber side frames bridge gaps between cabinets and walls. Leave a 6mm expansion gap with MDF spacers to accommodate seasonal shifts in humidity. Pro tip: Note door swing clearance, especially in smaller rooms.
Choosing the Right Configuration
PAX units like the 39″ and 19″ combos offer full-height storage without dominating the space. Mix and match shelves, drawers, and hanging rails to suit your needs. One homeowner’s design hack? “Use 29″ cabinets for tighter spots—they’re just as versatile.”
“I added Hendel & Hendel brassware early—it tied the whole design together.”
Designing for Storage and Style
Think beyond function. Coordinate handles or knobs early to add a bit of personality. Paint trim the same colour as your wall for a built-in look. The result? Cabinets that blend seamlessly while maximising every inch of space.
Essential Tools and Materials
A well-prepared toolkit makes customisation smoother. Whether you’re assembling PAX carcasses or adding trim, having the right tools and materials ensures a professional finish. Here’s what you’ll need to transform basic units into built-in masterpieces.
Basic Tools for Assembly
Start with these essentials to assemble your framework securely:
- Power drill: For screwing panels and attaching hinges.
- Clamps: Hold MDF pieces steady during cutting.
- Caulk gun: Seals gaps for a seamless look.
- Step stool: Reaches high corners safely.
Pro tip: A circular saw delivers cleaner cuts than handsaws for MDF trim.
Additional Materials for Customisation
Elevate your project with these finishing touches:
- 12mm MDF: Ideal for doors; B&Q offers precision cutting.
- 6mm primed MDF: Lightweight trim—prime with Leyland Trade.
- 1×3″ scrap wood: Cost-effective backer pieces for alignment.
“I saved £200 using B&Q-cut MDF instead of bespoke panels.”
Where to Source Materials in the UK
UK homeowners can find everything locally:
- B&Q: Pre-cut MDF and paint (try Lick Greige 02 for modern neutrals).
- Screwfix: Hafele hinges and hardware.
- Local timber merchants: For custom trim sizes.
With these materials and tools, you’re ready to tackle the next step: assembly.
Assembling Your IKEA PAX Wardrobe
Putting together your modular storage unit is simpler than you might think. With the right approach, you’ll have a sturdy framework ready for customisation in no time.
Step-by-Step Assembly Guide
Start by building the carcasses on a flat surface. This ensures stability before adding shelves or drawers. Pro tip: Pre-drill holes for handles to prevent MDF from splitting.
Attach the hinge plates to the side panels first. Use 6mm MDF spacers to align drawer runners perfectly. Forums recommend relocating runner pins for smoother operation.
Securing the Wardrobe to the Wall
Safety comes first. Anchor the unit to a wall using furniture straps, especially in older UK houses with brick walls. This prevents tipping and adds stability.
Check the unit is level before final fixing. A slight tilt can cause doors to sag over time. Reinforce with 18mm plywood backs if needed.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
Rushing assembly leads to mistakes. Follow each step methodically—skip none. One user shared: “I ignored the spacer step and my drawers jammed.”
- Hinge alignment: Test door swing before tightening screws.
- Drawer gaps: Offset by 6mm using Hafele soft-close hinges.
- Wall clearance: Leave 10mm for skirting boards.
“Fixing to the wall took 15 minutes but saved my toddler from a toppled unit.”
Customising the Look of Your Wardrobe
The right finishing touches elevate modular units to bespoke elegance. With clever techniques, you can disguise seams and create a cohesive look that blends with your room’s architecture.
Adding Trim for a Built-In Appearance
Torus moulding is a favourite for creating a “faux built-in” effect. Fix 1×3″ backer pieces to the frame, then attach quarter-round moulding with panel pins. Prime MDF trim with Leyland Trade for better paint adhesion.
“Torus moulding hides seams beautifully—just sand lightly before painting for a smooth finish.”
Filling Gaps Between the Wardrobe and Ceiling
Uneven walls or ceiling lines? Use decorator’s caulk for filling gaps ≤3mm. For larger spaces, cut MDF spacers to size. A pro tip: Paint trim the same colour as your walls to disguise imperfections.
| Gap Size | Solution | Tool |
|---|---|---|
| ≤3mm | Decorator’s caulk | Caulk gun |
| 3-10mm | MDF strips | Circular saw |
| >10mm | Timber battens | Power drill |
Painting Techniques for a Seamless Finish
Spray doors horizontally to avoid drips. Sherwin-Williams Pure White matches IKEA’s off-whites perfectly. Lightly sand between coats for a pro-grade finish. From a distance, the view is indistinguishable from custom joinery.
- Colour matching: Test swatches in natural light.
- Spray vs. brush: Spraying reduces brush marks.
- Drying time: Allow 4 hours between coats.
Creative IKEA Wardrobe Hack Ideas
Personalising modular storage units unlocks endless design possibilities. With a few clever upgrades, basic frameworks can mirror high-end fitted furniture. Here’s how to achieve a tailored look like a pro.
Shaker-Style Doors with MDF
For a timeless style design, glue 6mm MDF strips to 12mm panels to create recessed panels. Pro tip: Use a 15mm router bit for uniform grooves. Prime with Leyland Trade for flawless paint adhesion.
“Fluted glass inserts modernise Shaker doors—just ensure measurements match IKEA’s hinge system.”
Incorporating Drawers and Shelves
Mix Komplement drawers with Hafele soft-close runners for silent operation. Open shelves framed with MDF trim add display space. Bonus: LED strips under shelves illuminate contents subtly.
| Component | Upgrade | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Drawers | Hafele runners | £25/set |
| Shelves | MDF edging | £12/panel |
| Lighting | LED strips | £15/m |
Using Handles and Knobs for a Personalised Touch
Hendel & Hendel’s Callcott knobs (£12.95 each) add artisan flair. For a cohesive design, match finishes to room hardware. MDF panels accept most fittings—just pre-drill to prevent splitting.
- Brass handles: Warm tones suit traditional spaces.
- Minimalist bars: Sleek for contemporary schemes.
- Ceramic knobs: Inject colour into neutral palettes.
Maximising Storage with Smart Solutions
Efficient storage starts with strategic compartmentalisation. Whether you’re working with compact alcoves or awkward corners, the right fittings and adjustments can double your usable space. Here’s how to optimise every centimetre.
Organising the Interior with IKEA Fittings
KOMPLEMENT pull-out trays stack vertically to store accessories like belts or scarves. For deeper PAX carcasses, Blumotion undermounts extend drawer depth by 6mm—no need for custom parts.
- Corner carousels: Rotating shelves fit 19″ cabinets, utilising dead space.
- Adjustable dividers: Reconfigure shelves seasonally without tools.
“I added a lift-up storage compartment above the rail—perfect for winter blankets.”
DIY Storage Hacks for Small Spaces
Narrow gaps between sides and walls? Fix 12mm MDF panels as false fronts to create slim pull-out racks. Pro tip: Paint them to match your walls for a seamless look.
For ceilings under 2.4m, attach mesh baskets to the top frame. They’re ideal for bulky items like suitcases, keeping floors clutter-free.
Adjusting for Hinge and Drawer Compatibility
170° opening hinges let corner drawers open fully. Use IKEA’s existing components to offset runners by 6mm—no extra cost. Test alignment with a spirit level before final tightening.
| Issue | Solution | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Stiff drawers | Wax runner tracks | £5 |
| Misaligned doors | Adjust hinge screws | Free |
| Shallow storage | Blumotion extensions | £22/set |
Conclusion
Downsizing your house doesn’t mean sacrificing storage or style. Modular solutions like the PAX system prove you can achieve the same capacity in half the space. Lindsey Bird’s £800 project delivered £3,500-worth of functionality—all while keeping her bedroom clutter-free.
The benefits are clear: cost savings, adaptability, and space efficiency. Start with two or three cabinets and expand as your needs grow. For long-lasting results, re-tighten hinges annually to maintain smooth operation.
Ready to transform your space? Share your creative solutions using #IKEAwardrobehackUK for inspiration. With smart planning, even compact homes can feel spacious and organised.
FAQ
What are the benefits of customising PAX wardrobes?
Personalising PAX units allows you to tailor storage to your needs while achieving a high-end look at a fraction of the cost of built-in options. You can adjust shelves, add drawers, or modify doors for a seamless fit.
How do I measure my space accurately before starting?
Use a tape measure to check the width, height, and depth of your space, including alcoves. Account for skirting boards and ceiling height variations. Always double-check measurements before ordering.
Can I use MDF to upgrade the doors?
Yes! MDF panels can be cut to size and attached to PAX doors for a shaker-style or panelled design. Sand edges smooth and prime before painting for a professional finish.
What tools are essential for assembly?
A drill, screwdriver, level, and circular saw (for trimming panels) are key. For custom touches, grab wood filler, sandpaper, and paint supplies. Always follow IKEA’s assembly guide for the base structure.
How do I fill gaps between the wardrobe and walls?
Use scribed MDF trim or decorator’s caulk for small gaps. For larger spaces, consider extending the plinth or adding a matching filler panel to blend with your walls.
What’s the best way to paint PAX units?
Lightly sand surfaces, apply a primer suitable for laminate, then use a durable paint like eggshell or satin. A mini roller helps avoid brush marks for a smooth, built-in appearance.
Can I mix PAX with other IKEA systems?
Absolutely. Combine PAX with KOMPLEMENT drawers or BILLY bookcases for hybrid storage. Just ensure frames align and use matching finishes for cohesion.
How do I stop doors from sagging over time?
Fit adjustable hinges and check alignment yearly. Reinforce heavy doors with an extra hinge or a discreet anti-sag bracket inside the frame.