This Hidden Closet IKEA Hack Transforms Top Floor Landing Space

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When it comes to maximizing space and adding a touch of bespoke elegance to a home, Lee Middleton’s recent hidden closet hack ticks all the boxes. The design blends in so seamlessly that you might miss it unless the homeowner reveals its secret storage.

Lee was quick to point out that they didn’t DIY it themselves. “We had the idea, and local tradesmen pulled it off.”

Lee’s pictorial tour of his IKEA hack offers valuable insights into building an “invisible” PAX closet. Let’s take a closer look, starting with the end result.

Cleverly Hidden Wardrobes

As you ascend the steps to the top floor, you’re initially greeted by what appears to be a bare landing. However, upon closer inspection, subtle openings in the wall catch your eye. A gentle nudge reveals their secret – these panels are actually cleverly concealed doors that open up to reveal spacious wardrobes. How was it done? Lee takes us through the basic framework.

Repurposing IKEA PAX Wardrobe Frames

The top-floor landing started off as an unused space. When Lee and his family moved into their new house, they inherited some old IKEA wardrobes from the previous homeowners. These wardrobes became the foundation of the clever storage solution adjacent to the three bedrooms.

Due to their location in the eaves, the bedrooms have sloped ceilings, so traditional storage solutions weren’t ideal. The PAX wardrobes offered a perfect way to utilize the space efficiently without intruding on the bedrooms. Yet visually, they needed to blend — better yet — disappear into the surroundings. The solution was to transform the PAX units into concealed wardrobes hidden in plain sight.

Building The Frames In

The salvaged PAX frames were without doors. The contractors cut MDF boards to fit the size of the frames. You can use IKEA doors for this step. Using IKEA all the way will be easier and save you a step, but IKEA doors may not be as cheap as MDF boards.

They closed off the space above the PAX wardrobes with boards for a clean finish. 

Concealing The Build

Chair rails and trim were added to the doors, mimicking the trim along the landing space. The contractors chamfered the trim and chair rail to allow the doors to open fully.

To continue the illusion, they omitted door handles and installed push openers. Then, to complete the visual trickery, painted the doors in the same two colors as the walls.

Cost-effective IKEA Storage Solution

Due to the upcycled PAX wardrobes, the project was extremely cost-effective. Lee spent around $820 for new doors, materials, and labor costs for the two contractors. Even with three new wardrobe frames, the cost of the project would have increased by a mere $510. The entire transformation, including painting, was completed within a three-day period.

Lots of Practical Storage

Lee finds the transformed space incredibly functional, especially considering it was previously unused. He loves seeing the expressions on the faces of his guests who discover the hidden storage in what appears to be a hallway.

“When people come in, they are amazed to see the doors pop open with a slight push, and they notice all of the clothes inside,” Lee says.

Fitting The Interiors

The PAX wardrobes function as intended, and you can incorporate any standard IKEA wardrobe accessories, such as shelves and drawers, into their design.

Stairs Landing Transformed

The landing area has been ingeniously converted into a practical storage space, seamlessly integrated without the bulkiness of traditional, large wardrobes.

Using Local Craftsmen

Even if you’re not a DIY expert, don’t let that deter you from achieving the IKEA hack of your dreams at home. Like Lee, enlist the help of skilled local contractors to realize your creative vision. For assistance, explore Facebook groups dedicated to IKEA hacks, where you can often find professionals offering their hacking services to transform your space.

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Erin hacked the IKEA PAX to create a walk-in closet, with some critical upgrades to achieve the look of high-end custom cabinetry.

Victorian Vibe For IKEA Wardrobes

Kevin and Sarah wanted an affordable closet solution — under $2000 — in their closet-less Victorian home. However, they wanted something that would match the house’s period architecture and trim work.