10 IKEA Wardrobes You’ll Actually Want to Show Off (Not Just Stuff Clothes Into)
- Beril Yilmaz
- Aug 5
- 6 min read
For renters, first-time buyers or anyone who’s ever stared at a pile of clothes with nowhere to put them—IKEA wardrobes are the unsung heroes of modern living. They’re budget-friendly, easy to personalise, and surprisingly long-lasting. Whether you're after sleek minimalism, cottage-core charm or simply need a quick fix for your overstuffed rail, there’s an IKEA wardrobe that fits the bill.
This Scandinavian staple has built its reputation on functionality and affordability, but its wardrobes go further than just basics. From clever corners to built-in mirrors, open designs and smart compartments, they offer stylish solutions for awkward spaces and streamlined lives. Better still, many models can be customised as your needs change—ideal for growing families or renters who move often.
In this post, we’ll guide you through some of the most practical, clever, and good-looking IKEA wardrobes to suit different tastes, budgets and room sizes. Expect space-saving tips, hidden gems, and options that can be dressed up or down depending on your interior style. Ready to meet your perfect wardrobe?
1. IKEA wardrobes: Small-space wonders for compact rooms
If you’re short on square footage, don’t panic—IKEA has a wardrobe to fit. Look for narrow models that won’t cramp your room but still deliver in terms of storage.
The Rakkestad is a great example—slim but with ample hanging space and a discreet look that blends into the background. For tighter spots like corners or the space behind a door, go for the Platsa system, which can be stacked or wall-mounted to create vertical storage that doesn’t eat up precious floor.
Open wardrobes are also worth considering in small rooms. Mulig, IKEA’s minimalist open rail, is ideal for those who prefer to see everything at a glance (and don’t mind keeping it tidy). You can even use the top rail for hanging and the bottom for boxes or shoes. Add a curtain across the front if you want a cleaner, more contained look.
2. IKEA wardrobes: Modular designs that grow with you
One of IKEA’s biggest strengths is its modularity—and IKEA wardrobes are no different. If you want something you can expand over time, the Platsa and Elvarli ranges are game-changers.
The Platsa system is all about flexibility. You can start with a basic unit, then add more doors, drawers or hanging sections later. It's great for kids’ rooms or anyone whose storage needs are always shifting. Pair it with IKEA’s SKUBB boxes or hanging storage for a super organised interior.
Elvarli, meanwhile, is the open shelving version of wardrobe heaven. It’s perfect for walk-in closets or dressing corners, especially in light-filled rooms where a bulky wardrobe might feel overwhelming. With adjustable posts and frames, it can be built to match ceiling height and accommodate different functions—from shoe racks to drawers and hanging rails.
3. IKEA wardrobes: Mirrored doors that double up on space
A wardrobe that also makes your room feel bigger? Yes, please. Mirrored IKEA wardrobes reflect light around the room, add a sense of openness and save you from buying a full-length mirror separately.
Look for styles like the Hasvik sliding wardrobe with mirrored panels, which works especially well in narrow rooms where hinged doors might not open easily. Or go for the Songesand with its subtle, inset mirrors for a more traditional look.
If you want to upgrade the look even further, consider adding IKEA's stick-on lighting strips inside or along the mirror's edge. It turns a simple wardrobe into a lit-up dressing area without the cost of custom built-ins.
4. IKEA wardrobes: Best options for kids' bedrooms
Children’s rooms can quickly become chaos zones, which is why smart wardrobe storage is key. IKEA wardrobes designed for kids often focus on accessibility, safety and multifunctional features.
The Stuva/Fritids combination includes drawers, rails and open cubbies that kids can reach themselves, helping them build independence (and maybe even tidy up). There’s also the Småstad system, which mixes drawers and cupboards with soft-close hinges—perfect for smaller hands and louder households.
For added fun, let your child decorate the doors with chalkboard paint, removable stickers, or colourful knobs. IKEA’s pieces are often plain enough to act as a blank canvas—and since they’re affordable, you won’t feel bad updating them as tastes change.
5. IKEA wardrobes: Stylish upgrades for every budget
Even the simplest IKEA wardrobe can look high-end with a few creative tweaks. If you love the look of designer joinery but not the price tag, this is where you get creative.
Try replacing standard handles with brass or ceramic ones from places like Etsy or hardware shops. Add peel-and-stick wallpaper or cane webbing to plain panels for a DIY statement wardrobe. If you’re crafty, repaint a white door in a bold colour like navy or forest green—it adds depth and contrast to neutral bedrooms.
IKEA wardrobes also work brilliantly as built-ins. Tuck them into alcoves and add crown moulding or filler pieces on the sides to make it look seamless. You can even build shelving around them or add sconces to either side for a boutique hotel vibe.
6. IKEA wardrobes: Open vs. closed storage – which is better?
There’s no right or wrong answer here—just different vibes. Closed IKEA wardrobes (like Brimnes or Pax) give you that sleek, clean, everything-tucked-away look. Great for minimalists, renters, or shared rooms where you want personal items out of sight.
Open storage (Elvarli, Mulig, or even Nordkisa) feels lighter, more relaxed and encourages you to keep things tidy. It also creates a boutique-style wardrobe display if you love styling your clothes.
A good in-between is mixing closed and open components. Have a section of your Pax open with a rail and shelf, and the rest behind doors. That way, your favourite pieces are on show, but messier items stay hidden.
7. IKEA wardrobes: Hidden gems in the range
Everyone knows Pax and Hemnes—but there are some lesser-known IKEA wardrobes that deserve attention:
Trysil – A sleek option with sliding doors and a slightly curved frame that feels soft and contemporary. Great for minimalist or Scandi-style bedrooms.
Aneboda – Often overlooked, but it’s one of the most affordable standing wardrobes for guest rooms or rental properties.
Nordli – Technically not a wardrobe, but its drawer units and modular design mean it can work just as well in a wardrobe layout when paired with rails and shelving.
Bonus tip: look in the hallway section for coat cabinets that can be adapted as mini wardrobes in small flats or entryways.
8. IKEA wardrobes: Storage hacks and accessories to maximise space
IKEA’s internal organisers might be their best-kept secret. Once you choose your wardrobe, don’t skip the extras—they’re what make the system work.
The Komplement range includes everything from pull-out trousers racks to glass-front drawers so you can see your accessories at a glance. SKUBB boxes fit perfectly into most IKEA wardrobes and are great for seasonal rotation.
Try Hjalpa hanging shelves for flexible compartments, or install Utrusta LED lights to illuminate everything inside. A few well-placed additions can double the efficiency of even the most basic wardrobe.
FAQs – IKEA Wardrobes
Q: What’s the most customisable IKEA wardrobe?A: The Pax system wins hands-down. It comes in various heights, widths, and finishes and allows you to fully personalise the interior with drawers, rails, boxes and more.
Q: Can I paint or modify my IKEA wardrobe?A: Yes! Most have laminate surfaces, so be sure to use the right primer first. Many DIYers customise IKEA pieces with paint, stick-on vinyl, new handles or even trim for a bespoke look.
Q: Are IKEA wardrobes good quality?A: While not heirloom furniture, IKEA wardrobes are generally durable for the price—especially if assembled carefully. Reinforce heavy doors with wall brackets if needed.
Q: How do I fit an IKEA wardrobe into an awkward room shape?A: Use modular pieces like Platsa or Elvarli that can adapt to angles and heights. IKEA’s online planner is also helpful for visualising tricky layouts.
Transform your space with BY Design And Viz
At BY Design And Viz, we go beyond flat-pack. Whether you're working with a tricky layout, want a built-in look, or need help styling your wardrobe to match your interiors, our interior and exterior design team is here to help. We also offer architectural visualisation services to help you see your new space before a single screw is turned.
💬 Get in touch for a consultation and take your IKEA wardrobe from functional to fabulous.
