Can You Use IKEA PLATSA as a Room Divider?

Looking to divide a room without building a wall? IKEA PLATSA might be the solution you're after – but it comes with some conditions.

Mauritz has photographed several PLATSA setups across IKEA showrooms in Europe, and yes – it can work beautifully as a stylish room divider. Here's what you need to know.

Choose the Right Depth – Or It Won't Stand

PLATSA units come in two depths: 40 cm and 55 cm. If you're planning to place it freestanding in the middle of a room, avoid the 40 cm version – it's too light and wobbly unless fixed to a wall.

👉 The 55 cm depth offers more weight and balance, making it better suited for room divider builds.

According to users on forums like Reddit, even the 55 cm versions may require extra stabilization unless you're placing them against a wall or anchoring them properly.

IKEA's Own Suggestion: Use the PLATSA Bed as a Divider

IKEA actually promotes the PLATSA bed frame with storage as a multifunctional divider for small apartments:

"This versatile bed can also be used as a room divider – with room for sleep on one side and storage on the other."
— IKEA PLATSA Bed Frame with 10 Doors – Official Product Page

This is perhaps the most stable and space-saving way to divide a room using PLATSA, especially in a studio apartment.

Tips for Building a Safe PLATSA Divider

If you plan to use standard PLATSA units (not the bed frame), follow these best practices:

• Go for the 55 cm depth – it adds weight and better balance.

• Secure the bottom modules to a heavy base or use discreet wall anchors.

• Combine several frames into one unified piece using brackets or connector bolts.

• Place heavier storage at the bottom – books, towels, boxes – for better stability.

• Avoid top-heavy designs unless they're fully secured.

Pros of Using PLATSA as a Divider

✅ Customizable height and width – build it as tall or wide as you need.
✅ Storage on both sides – great for dual access.
✅ Closed or open options – mix doors, drawers, and shelves for your needs.
✅ Visually separates spaces – perfect for zoning in small apartments.

Cons to Consider

⚠️ Not designed to be freestanding – you'll need to modify or reinforce it.
⚠️ Can feel bulky – especially in tight spaces.
⚠️ More expensive than simpler divider options like curtains or KALLAX.

Other IKEA Options for Room Division

If PLATSA feels too heavy or complex, consider these alternatives:

• KALLAX – the classic cube shelf; easier to move and often stable enough on its own.

• IVAR shelves – especially the wide 50 cm versions; stylish and open.

• NÄMMARÖ panels – lightweight, foldable, and decorative.

• A curtain on a ceiling-mounted rail – minimal and highly flexible.

Final Thoughts

Yes – you can use IKEA PLATSA as a room divider, but you'll need to:

• Choose the 55 cm deep frames

• Reinforce or anchor them properly

• Possibly get creative with a heavy base or a custom stabilizer

If you're not up for DIY fixes, the PLATSA bed frame with storage is IKEA's own recommended solution – smart, integrated, and perfect for dividing sleep and living areas in a single room.