Guide: Turning PAX into a bespoke built-in
The PAX wardrobe from IKEA is a functional base that, with proper customisation, can be transformed into a unique, sculptural structure. Learn how to technically plan a wardrobe to complement your interior beautifully.
Style and geometry of the solid
Wardrobe personalisation begins with choosing the finish and shape of the panels:
Finish:
You can choose from a select range of finishes – from lacquered fronts, through natural veneers, to any color on precious wood.
Form:
You can opt for minimalist straight lines or curved panels, which provide the solid with lightness and sculptural silhouette.
Rhythm:
Dividing panels allow you to introduce an additional vertical detail to the design, emphasising the geometry of the fronts.
Essential finishing elements
To give your wardrobe the look of a single unit, you need three key components:
Fronts:
Available in widths of 25 and 50 cm and three heights: 195 cm, 229 cm and 253 cm (designed for the tallest of PAX cabinets).
Plinths:
Aesthetic finishing of the lower part, masking the front base of the body.
Panels:
These are essential elements that conceal all the technical aspects of the cabinets and any structural gaps by the walls and ceiling.
Side panels – straight or curved: They conceal the sides of IKEA cabinets.
Infill panels – fascias: They close the gaps between the wardrobe and the wall or ceiling.
Interior fit: make the most of every millimeter
The biggest challenge is making the wardrobe perfectly fill the alcove. We have proven methods for this:
Visible side:
If your wardrobe isn’t located in a recess, be sure to use a side panel. Choosing a curved panel is a great way to lighten the shape and give it a lighter, sculptural silhouette.
Gaps by the wall:
Use infill panels to eliminate gaps between the wardrobe and the perpendicular wall. This will create a seamless unit.
Built-in to the very ceiling:
High interiors offer a wide range of design options. You can finish the top of the wardrobe in several ways
■ Standard height – classic ceiling-level panel:
Choose a 236 cm high PAX wardrobe and mask the remaining space above it with a horizontal infill panel that aligns with the fronts.
■ Wardrobe up to 260 cm without visible joints:
If your room is less than 260 cm high, you can achieve a seamless surface effect. Buy a PAX frame (236 cm) and order side panels up to 260 cm high (reaching from floor to ceiling) and fronts up to 253 cm high. The remaining 7 cm at the bottom is space for a plinth, which allows for easy door opening. If your room requires non-standard front heights between 229 and 253 cm, please provide the desired dimensions in the order notes, and we will make them especially for you.
■ Above 260 cm – mix of systems (PAX + METOD):
If the ceiling is above 260 cm, it’s worth using extensions. Combine the PAX carcase (201 or 236 cm) with the METOD extension (60 cm wide, which can be cut to 50 cm). You can order custom-sized fronts for this set from us – simply select a similarly larger size in the configurator and provide the final dimensions in the order notes.
Every room is different, so a custom-made PAX wardrobe is an investment in everyday comfort and aesthetics that never go out of style.
Ready to start designing? Use our configurator or contact us – we’ll prepare a quote and help you match PAX to your home.
