The ultimate IKEA Pax wardrobe hack: How a couple created a beautiful walk-in closet from a flatpack

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.