So far, the most challenging of my home improvement projects has been the process of sifting through our closets and drawers and de-accessioning the things we no longer need. On the other hand, exploring the range of systems for better stowing the things we intend to keep has been fascinating. After looking into the organizing and storage options from several different companies, I’ve been amazed to see how many nooks and cubbies and hooks and drawers and built-in hangers and shelves there are in the world to choose from. And the range in prices for these storage elements is astounding, too.
One of the storage systems I like best is a line from Ikea called Pax. It’s a modular system that you can customize with a variety of additional components, such as slide-out crease-free trouser hangers, jewelry shelves, sock cubbies and easy-access drawers, among many other things. If you want to craft a closed wardrobe unit, it also offers a broad choice of door styles (I really like the Bergbo and the Birkeland versions), and the doors can be attached either on sliding tracks or hinges. And the Pax units come in a range of finishes from chocolate brown and birch to white-washed oak and white.
In addition, there’s a fantastic planning tool on the Ikea Web site that allows you to create exactly the unit you want by clicking and dragging the components you need into place on the base of your choosing. The tool also lets you change the color of the unit, add or subtract components as you go along, and calculate the price of the unit as you build it. You can see how it works by clicking here. Not only is the storage collection super functional, it also looks great—as Ikea products usually do. And the best part is the price. A baseline unit starts at just $180, with shelves, slide-out drawers and baskets ranging from $10-$40 each.
