The ultimate IKEA Pax wardrobe hack: How a couple created a beautiful walk-in closet from a flatpack
You need to know about this chic IKEA Pax wardrobe hack that will make the walk-in closet of your dreams possible


By Megan Slack
Armed with nothing but an IKEA Pax wardrobe, an Idaho-based couple transformed a blank canvas dressing room into a stunning dressing room.
Chris and Julia Marcum, the team behind Chris Loves Julia, are already renowned for their inventive renovation tips, which they document on their blog. However, their latest IKEA hack will undoubtedly fill any fashion lover with interior envy.
The closet is based entirely on the IKEA PAX system. However, they trimmed, painted, and redesigned the drawer fronts, meaning the final result is unrecognizable.
See also: A sneak peek at IKEA furniture and homeware for Spring 2021
Before
With their newly built extension, the couple began their transformation with flatpacks from the famous Swedish chain.
At the end of March, Chris and Julia made one last trip to IKEA before a lockdown gripped the US. Their instructions to stay at home gave them time to focus wholly on the transformation.
They used the IKEA wardrobe planning tool before creating mood boards, which influenced the design process.
The process
When constructing the wardrobes, they swapped the white cardboard folded backs for 1/4″ plywood backs. This trade made the spray painting more seamless.
Chris and Julia then added interior fittings to fill in the holes they were not using in preparation for paint. They sprayed the entire fitting, aside from the drawers, which they painted separately.
Both individuals designed their side of the closet independently to cater to their personal needs. Chris prioritized drawers, while Julia opted for more hanging space.
After
The final result is a walk in paradise even Carrie Bradshaw would surely approve of.
Chris and Julia dressed their closet with marble doorknobs, a custom made mirror, and a leather tufted ottoman. Then, they filled their wardrobe with their clothes, shoes, and accessories. The couple finished by crowning their stylish extension with a striking chandelier.
However, this closet is not only a gorgeous addition to Chris and Julia’s bedroom- it is also practical and a stylish storage idea. Stemming only from an IKEA flatpack, the couple has created a large storage space, where they can treasure their possessions and get dressed in a quintessentially stylish surrounding.
-
-
These are the designers to watch in 2021 -The best of Stockholm Design Week
Our pick of the most exciting new launches from the show
By Rohini Wahi •
-
Best mattress 2021 – 10 options for a (very) comfortable night's sleep
We've reviewed the best mattresses to bring you a definitive list of the most supportive foam mattresses, hybrid mattresses and pocket-sprung alternatives
By Jennifer Oksien •
-
These are the designers to watch in 2021 -The best of Stockholm Design Week
Our pick of the most exciting new launches from the show
By Rohini Wahi •
-
The Balcony Gardener shares her five simple steps to a successful balcony garden
Renowned balcony gardener Isabelle Palmer reveals how to create a green kingdom in the heart of an urban jungle
By Megan Slack •
-
Fleetwood Mac's former Santa Monica mansion is on the market- take a look inside
The iconic Moroccan style property has a secret speakeasy behind a bookcase in the library
By Megan Slack •
-
On the House: Sophie Heawood's Property Binge. This week, houses with pools
Rightmove fanatic Sophie Heawood dives into her favourite houses with pools for sale
By Sophie Heawood •
-
This former Victorian laundry has been converted into a beautiful contemporary home
The perfect blend of working and living space, this spacious and contemporary house for a painter boasts a thoughtful architect-led design
By Anna Cottrell •
-
The Museum of the Home is auctioning off masterclasses with some of the biggest names in interiors
Great interiors for an even greater cause - here's how you can help the world through your love for interiors
By Megan Slack •
-
Zero waste craft - the trend transforming our homes and attitude to fast homeware
A new generation of creators have turned to waste as a primary source for crafted pieces
By Rhoda Parry •
-
Abigail Ahern shares her secret for making a small space feel bigger using color
The maximalist expert shares the colors that make a room look bigger - they are not what you might expect
By Megan Slack •