Architect's TOP 10 IKEA Products to Buy/Avoid in 2023

Like most stores, not all IKEA furniture is equal! So here's my list of what to buy/avoid from a highly opinionated designer's perspective. Brace yourself!
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[@tonychan8558]

I used to work in IKEA over 10 years ago. Products have changed, but there are a few tips I still go with. Bedroom: Malm stuff is the best. They last years. All my bedroom drawers are years old and still work today, although I did add a few additional strengtheners to the drawers when they were introduced whilst I worked there. Mattresses: They are cheap because a.) IKEA own the patents to them, and b.) they make thousands = economies of scale. The amount of customers I have talked to asking whether they are cheap because they are rubbish. The cheaper grey ones will last, but not very comfortable. Choose medium/high end price, because you're going to spend 1/3 of the time on it, don't skimp on a mattress! Bathroom furniture: AVOID! They don't hold up well for long periods of time in a humid environment. Eventually, the moisture will go in between the wood and expand/split them.

[@aesaphyr]

As someone who grew up in a tropical country and has recently moved back, the last piece of advice is so true: particle board furniture does really poorly in high humidity so like you said, avoid in bathrooms... and also avoid in highly humid countries.

[@CupcakeLadyOriginal]

Currently seeing that bathroom aspect at my mom's: she used a KALAX I believe as storage and it's even hanging on the wall but the humidity is kind of starting to kill it

[@camilaf365]

I agree with you about bathroom furniture. I've had bathroom furniture and it didn't work very well with humidity.

[@TorchwoodPandP]

Bathroom cupboards are brilliant in a narrow kitchen, tho.

[@tonychan8558]

@Travel Explorer That stuff is actually pretty good, just make sure you build them correctly. The main error people do is hammer in the back board when it is not 100% right angles, especially with larger items like Billy Bookcase. But if built correctly, it will last years.

[@videobrowsing]

Timestamps to save you time: 0:32 Sofas 2:11 Storage 3:29 Home Office 4:42 Desk Chairs 6:28 Rugs 8:03 Mirrors 8:58 Table Lamps 9:57 Dining Chairs 11:30 Lounge Chairs 12:34 Coffee Tables 15:53 END

[@LeticiaCuenca]

Thank you! I really don’t know why this channel doesn’t include chapters with time stamps

[@respectall2153]

Thank you

[@michaelxz1305]

He is so wrong about Flintan chairs. They are great. I don't see what the looks problem is. But it needs armrests, they are extra. He's of regular stature so he can afford to be picky. For tall people these Flintan chairs are very comfortable and adjust higher than the other chairs IKEA offers. So they are a lifesaver for tall people up to say 6'5. I'm 6'4 and sure it would be nice if they could go a bit higher but it's still plenty good enough.

[@narnigrin]

Fun fact about the retirement home vibe of the OMTÄNKSAM armchair: That series was literally designed to be friendly to people with mobility issues and physical issues of various kinds that fit pretty well with a retirement home stereotype. (It contains some more explicitly practical items as well, like silicone mats to help you deal with things sliding on tables and seat cushions that are supposed to have extra good anti-slip.) Which is of course why you'll see a lot of upper-middle-age and older people in the marketing photos for these products! :)

[@madeleine5313]

I live in Norway and I don’t think people are too bothered here if an item is from Ikea and is identifiable in their home. I even once bumped into Morten Harket (lead singer of A-ha) at ikea. However, when I lived in New York I noticed very quickly there was a different attitude to ikea. People were looking down on it. I think each to their own. Design is also a feeling. If you like how a piece of furniture looks and functions in your own home, then who is to say it is right or wrong 😅

[@shaunna6673]

I am not ashamed of my IKEA items. They make my heart happy when I look at/use them. I want more =) Thankfully, none of my items were on your "Avoid" list.

[@Whoippy]

I don‘t think his ‚Avoid‘ list should be of anyone‘s interest.

[@ether4211]

As someone with serious allergies the Ikea metal furniture is a real lifesaver as not only does it last forever but can be easily modified and is 100% spillproof, mouldproof, light and strong...not to mention they come in really nice minimalist designs and a range of good colours. The new office chair is also one I'm keeping an eye on as it's been impossible to find ergonomic work chairs without foam. I also love that the glass coffee table, desk etc. doesn't have exposed edges which is an important safety feature. Ironically because I live in a country that only recently got a Ikea store the Ikea look is considered higher class/style then more expensive local sellers.

[@bearchild4352]

Dining chairs are a great item to go used/vintage on. You'll be able to find gorgeous pieces for less than ikea and infuse some character to your space. Thanks for the great video!

[@helenanilsson5666]

Agreed. The tricky bit is to find a matching set if you need a larger dining arrangement, but I've seen people solve that by getting 2 chairs each from 3 different sets and then pimp them out (painting and/or re-clothing them depending on type of chair) so that they look like they belong together. Though for anyone about to paint some kitchen chairs, please remember to seal the paint before using it (especially if you have children or plan on ever inviting children). Otherwise you might end up scrubbing off the paint when you wipe of the chair.

[@COVET2010]

The desk shelf hack is a life saver... I spent 2 months looking for a good desk shelf that is less expensive than my entire desk only to learn this hack from you. Thank you very much 🙏

[@jaybee4118]

I’ve had a lack coffee table for 25 years. In that time it’s been through 15 house moves (removing and putting the legs back on each time) including 1 move to the other side of the world. It’s been the one piece of furniture that’s reliably stayed solid during all that. I don’t care about resale value at this point, it’s earned it’s sale price in the first place 100 times over now. Yeah, the styling is clunky, but despite that dodgy construction, it holds up remarkably well. It even looks almost as good as new with no dings and only a couple of scratches.

[@nadiaw246]

My issue with this video is the statement "IKEA branding isn't something you really want to show off." I personally think people should feel comfortable and happy with the things around them. Instead of passing off their IKEA furniture as expensive designer furniture. The company has always been a stepping stone for young designers and has had amazing designs throughout the years. It is no coincidence that a lot of now renowned designers developed wonderful pieces for IKEA when they were less established. A piece's low price tag should never be hidden or avoided altogether due to its low price, as you suggested. This is the worst interior design advice I've heard in a very long time.

[@camellia8625]

I think the issue is that people want something that looks unique (and expensive) not mass produced or too recognisable as IKEA. It is about a product being instantly recognisable to others as a certain brand. Even using expensive brands where the brand is too obvious such as designer goods which feature their logo - can be deemed to be in bad taste.

[@dyanalayng5507]

I find none of the decorating shows on YT are as smart as the short IKEA videos for how to maximize space use with style. And their spaces are made for people to live in. I show off my IKEA pieces with pride.

[@ricardomaciel2955]

ikea stuf can be super cheap because it is MASS PRODUCED. i work at a carpentry and as every piece we do is "unique" in the sense that is made specifically for the clients house with the materials and finishings of their choosing, we are not able to thin manofacturing costs over thousands of the same item. my home desk is IKEA (and its super cool and sturdy with an adjustble metal frame ) and can say pretty confifently that it would cost me 3x as much if i bought it at my workplace.

[@greyscalesx]

He litteraly addressed this and said if that's not something you care about, flaunt and go for the bold recognisable ikea pieces. Even said he has one of those rugs in his own living room. Yet you make an issue out of it. I swear now It's like in every video of any content creator, even if they blatently have explained things properly in the video, they have to put a disclaimer at the start of a video for the most inane things. Or spend minutes in the intro explaining to ppl who either have a poor attention span or poor audiovisual comprehension or downright oversensitive ppl who feel offended or attacked what's up. if you fail to mention that they can make their own choices, that ppl can have their own tastes and that they aren't dictating anyone's behaviour or that theyy aren't speaking in absolute ppl will nag about it. Calling the fact that many ppl want to hide the IKEA furniture and make it look like high end designer stuff, that is a matter of taste and not up for debate, worst designer advice ever, is so dramatic and obtuse. How is saying 'if you don't want X do this and if you okay with X you can do this' terrible designer advice ? He is not influencing ppl to not do this or telling them they have bad tast if they don't hide IKEA branded item. This is valid advice. Idk why you're salty about ppl's tastes ? Why the judgement ? What if they don't like IKEA as much but don't have the finances ? It's not per se about pretending to be wealthy. But about liking a certain look. Do you feel like they are tricking you about the size of their wallet by doing this? What's the issue ? I like IKEA if there's a piece that's obviously form there but I like, I'll get it anyways. But it's understandable not to want to. Bc like h&m when I was a teen, It didn't feel good when you walked down main shopping street and crossed path with two girls wearing the exact same top as you. Not bc of ego, like no one can have what I have. But bc it makes you realise how cheap, mass produced and mostly how unoriginal it is, to see the same thing litteraly everywhere. And looks are about expressing yourself, so if ppl want to to this it's fine. But it also doesn't change the fact that he is giving advice based off of what most ppl want, he has not tried to make them act like thinks is best at all.

[@demi3115]

he's an architect. being snobby is one of their job requirements.

[@mourgos1234]

About the cup / mug holder i got 2 of those and i went to ikea especially for those, they not only help to save laptop from water but also prevent you from accidentally hitting the glass with your arm, plus you can instinctively place the glass back by feeling the cup holder borders, without even looking. And yes i prefer to swipe the floor than mourn my laptop or notes on the desk. Plus they re much better quality that the super cheap cage- like ones that gaming desk sets offer.

[@ArmadilloGodzilla]

Even though I dont have one I can see the values. He was talking out his arse on that one. 😄

[@aesaphyr]

I have an expensive gaming laptop and this is 100% what was going through my mind. Drink on the floor - just wipe it. Drink on my laptop? End of the world. I can't afford to replace it just like that.

[@mourgos1234]

@@aesaphyr Exactly 😁

[@svlzy2865]

I can totaly second this, i got one for my birthday, and i love it. and if theres no drink to store, you can use it a a pencil holder. also, no one said it has to be mounted where youll constantly hit it, thats the whole point of a table clamp -> have it sit safely on a side of the table where you dont constantly fling your arms!

[@shafp1143]

I can confirm the cup holder actually provide so much value for me, not having to worry about water damaging the desk or spilling it AND more desk space is so worth it for me.

[@Coppergreencrossstitchstudio]

Love your videos! Just a note on the soderham sofa. I’m also a designer and thought it looked beautiful in photos. But having lived with it, it is not at all ergonomic. The sitting position requires you to slouch which is nice for a few minutes, but not the long term. It also tends to flop down a lot, which means it takes effort readjusting the cushions daily to keep it looking good. If you do get it, I’d recommend getting the arms, because then it will keep a pillow on it if you decide to lie across it.

[@anaalves3658]

I agree, it's not comfortable, looks great but not worth the money.

[@Micha-bp5om]

I bought it for the look and yeah it is not really that comfortable but it is ok...

[@Lanfeartyve]

I have a question about the sides and backing. They seem...flimsy? Do they hold or will they wiggle and need tightening after a while?

[@patriciacoco2665]

honestly, this helps me so much. I am looking for a new sofa and wanted to buy this. But I'd rather just keep looking and testing. Thank you!

[@pedromaziluprata6712]

yep can confirm. we had to get extra cushions with memory foam for the back and then using a large pillow against it. otherwise your back will be screaming if you're sitting on it more than an hour or so. it does look good and our dogs love it and with the improvements its very usable just not as your main sofa where you sit down and watch a movie at night.

[@dominey]

The problem I've encountered with IKEA lately is that the quality of their cheaper products aren't good enough for sustained use, and their more expensive products are priced similarly to better quality products made by other companies. Meaning, a $500 IKEA office chair is better than a $200 IKEA office chair, but that same $500 could buy an even better chair elsewhere. I also recently looked at their beds, and their prices were sky high for a basic, particle board frame, so I found a more solid option elsewhere.

[@tonychan8558]

It's not the bed which is important, it's the mattress.... unless your s*x is robust and you need a sturdy bed to keep up!

[@briangallentine3810]

@@tonychan8558 It IS.

[@paulhorn24]

Ikea cut down on quality of a lot of products as my friends, family and I have noticed.

[@erikwahlberg448]

My experience is that you get good value on the more pricy Istuff at IKEA than on their low price stuff. That is: if there is a cheap plate and an expensive one - go for the expensive plate! And I DO NOT feel embarassed having things that shout IKEA out loud. I want my home to look cool - not expensive.

[@worldofz00]

The question is though, was the other solid option also designed in a minimal aesthetic? That seems to be the issue. Minimal + solid wood = very pricy, even more pricey than traditional + solid wood, which I would not even consider.

[@gardenlevel7385]

The Soderhamm is one I'd coveted for a long time - until I sat in one. The seat height is a bit over 15 inches -- a real struggle from which to emerge for anyone with the slightest of mobility issues. I bought the Applaryd - seat height over 18 inches, with firm seat cushions and supportive back, and as you point out, handsome. Another item that is wonderful is the Hemnes glass-door cabinet with three drawers, and the matching side bookcases. This is so useful and attractive in a narrow hall, especially with Ytberg cabinet lighting.

[@SomeOnlinePerson]

I haven't spent much time looking at specifically Ikea's rugs, but something I'll add about rugs... avoid things made from rayon, "bamboo silk," or rugs that have a material like canvas or something covering the bottom, as the materials and construction of these rugs make them a lot more difficult and expensive to properly *wash* when the time comes. Wool rugs made with proper, traditional knotting (which leaves the design visible on the back, too) are best for a long-lasting rug that can be washed properly and maintained for generations.

[@abracadabra3428]

We have the Söderhamn Sofa at our house and in my opinion, it’s the perfect sofa for Netflix and chill. It’s quite deep so really your only possibility is to lay down and hide in the cushions. It’s not really a formal sofa to sit down and have coffee or something like that. I also really like the look and the modularity of it but I highly recommend getting it in a dark color. We have the beige one and it gets dirty really quickly. You can wash the cushions but not the fabric that covers the back and armrests. After a few years now you can really see the color difference between the parts that have been washed regularly and those who haven’t.

[@thebrothaj]

obsessed with the dejsa lamp... bought one, placed it, and immediately knew that she needed a sister! a beautiful sculptural piece that gives a warm ambient, soft light. i'd also recommend the fado lamp which is a simple yet very effective sphere shape (and is also a version of a much more expensive jasper morrison piece.)

[@dyanalayng5507]

I'm 74, and have been buying and enjoying IKEA furniture since the 1980s, and I can still assemble their furniture, thank you. 😍 I like your review though. Always good to have other opinions!

[@catsinpajamas]

I'll bet you have great taste too. He seems to think older people have no sense of style.

[@dyanalayng5507]

@@catsinpajamas I think younger people (40s) forget we were THEIR AGE when we started with IKEA. 😍😁 Really, none of the decorating shows can beat IKEA videos on how to maximize space use and storage.

[@madeleine5313]

Some of the ikea pieces from the 80’s are worth a lot on the second hand market. Especially the limited edition items. I love ikea too ❤️

[@dyanalayng5507]

@@madeleine5313 one of the most useful IKEA pieces is my tall "obelisk" made of black painted rebar with glass shelves. It has been kitchen storage/display, an abstract "Christmas tree" holding various colourful tins, plant shelves, and extra book storage. Not all at the same time. 😍 I do wish they would repeat that one. With a 16" x 16" base it fits into many nooks and corners.

[@madeleine5313]

@@dyanalayng5507 that one sounds like it’s quite iconic!

[@angelfernandez6804]

I think you should keep doing these alternative furniture videos. You have a great incite for function over fashion for furniture. Keep the videos coming.

[@thecuteexorcist2115]

As a mom, I love the desk cupholder! Maybe it isn't the best looking, but it is very practical! For example, have you thought about cats and small kids? The cupholder is deep enough to keep your drink from getting knocked over by a toddler or a cat. So instead of having my drink spilling everywhere when my toddler bumps the desk (because well, toddlers are clumsy), my drink now doesn't even spill a drop! Even the floor stays dry. Also cat's love to knock things over, especially a glass of water! But with the cupholder, your desk only gets wet (a few drops) when your cat put it's paw directly in the water, but it won't get knocked over. I personally love interior design, but a piece of furniture won't last long if it's not protected and/or practical. Like, a white designer couch isn't pretty with a red wine stain on it right? So with the cupholder, that's cheap and not the best looking, I protect my expensive, good looking, wooden design desk from getting stained or damaged. Making it last longer and stay pretty. Ofcourse if you don't have kids, or cats, you can easily put the drink on your desk. It obviously looks better without the cupholder. But my desk would have definetly been ruined by now if I didn't have the cupholder 😅.

[@janicetribbiani7535]

You should probably get a sippy cup for yourself. 😂

[@MissDHolliday]

I came here to say the same thing! I lost one too many morning coffees to a cat with zoomies.

[@bullarabcookie]

Go instore and see how shallow it is

[@SethKyros]

Great video with great recommendations as always mate. One suggestion that I can give you, please always put the floating text with the names of all the things as you mention them throughout the video, you usually have it, so it's extra jarring for the few items where it's missing, since it breaks the flow of the video by forcing us to backtrack a few times trying to pick up the name you said to try and look for it if we are interested.

[@Dor_Z]

I got the UPPSPEL legs and then used my already at home Karlby top together and ngl I love it, and its now my favorite desk setup I ever had

[@DeadDancers]

I have been looking at table lamps recently as part of trying to layer lighting at home - and was flabbergasted by how many have those cylindrical shades. I always thought they were an unpleasant option (due to the harsh shadows they tend to throw) and thus low-budget, but apparently not. They’re everywhere and they can be hugely expensive. Wow

[@thisgirl5933]

Totally not embarrassed for having most of my furniture from IKEA. Also, I put it together myself :) Like 30 various items. But overall I agree with your assessments in this video.

[@Maiju86]

Me neither! I love Ikea 💛💙

[@jonmills653]

awesome video yet again, this video combined with your Ikeas secret high end furniture video are just gold for decorating a new space

[@a2barts]

We are decorating our away flat at the moment and your videos are an amazing source for inspiration. Thank you Daniel 🙏🏼

[@gifttanz]

I use that office chair you love for my home and wfh setup and it's soooo comfy and wonderful and it keeps my room very minimalist looking. Deserves all those hearts.

[@kart0ffel]

OMG thanks a lot for the desk shelf tip. I needed this so badly.

[@anaalves3658]

I have the EKET storage boxes in my entry way as shoe storage and I am happy with it. No miss alignment issues, we have had them for over 2 years and they are used constantly. As with all things, high end and low end, sometimes the quality is inconsistent, I just got lucky.

[@JaneLame]

I bought one Eket box and the bottom didn’t fit in without moving. There was a gap it didn’t cover. It’s a hit and miss I guess.

[@louismichl]

Great video, Daniel! Thank you for this first class education and inspiration.

[@xervoo6419]

Completely support your desk chair recommendations. I have the Hattefjäll which is Långfjälls bigger brother and live it. Has stood up really, really well the last two years. The one downside is that cleaning, whenever that will be necessary, is a pain, since none of the cloth is removable. I am also doing a slight redesign in my apartment, throwing out the Tatami-mats I bought used two years ago that have gotten rather dirty, and wonky over the years. My plan is to buy a more high-end wool rug, but if that falls through, I think I'll take another look at the ones you recommended. I agree that the Tullsta has a retirement home vibe. I got one from my grandmothers estate, so that is even stronger for me. At the same time I haven't been able to give the chair up, and given the right context around it I don't think it necessarily has to look bad. Though admittedly it's much more work than with a... better designed chair. The Gladom is great. I have a (now discontinued) green one that I use as a sidetable / stand for a large indoor pine.

[@fromhgwaii]

I’ve only stumbled onto your channel recently (the couple in the New York studio apartment was my first video). I was instantly impressed with your pragmatic and sleek style, and imagined you to be based in a place like NYC. Watching this video I was first delighted to notice you listed prices in CAD, and then upon looking astonished to find that you are based in Vancouver! Ikea products do vary slightly by country, so it is especially awesome to know that what you are showing us here is locally (ish) available to me. Greetings from Vancouver *Island*!

[@MNSweet]

Fun fact the Havsta Coffee table is the prefect size to home the Large LEGO Millennium Falcon. If you're willing to make some modifications you can route out the center of the solid top and inlay some glass. There is space to put in glass or Acrylic on the 4 sides to protect the LEGO set from small fingers and stray feet. Makes a great display table.

[@krzysztofkoosowski7954]

I will chime in for a second here in regard to the mug holder. I've been using it for a while now and it is really useful in freeing up the space on my desk. Additionally, it is almost impossible to knock over a bigger glass from it (that I'm using) which would be a possible scenario if I would decide to keep it on the desk.

[@erindizmo]

I agree. I've had one for a few months now and as clumsy as I am, it's been a godsend in helping to avoid knocking things over.

[@nafs53]

Is there a wine bottle holder? 😆

[@krzysztofkoosowski7954]

@@nafs53 i guess that some of the wine bottles would fit :)

[@marycanary86]

im in LOVE with the alefjäll desk chair. it looks really good and its really comfy and supportive

[@fauxshowable]

Love your videos! Just bought a small flat and have to make a few compromises on budget, so many great tips in your video

[@curto312]

Could you do a video on folding furniture for small apartments/houses? Particularly folding dining tables and chairs would be really useful!!

[@bbch088]

Appreciate the tips on what we can consider when buying furnitures. Definitely taking away the advice to save up for a piece you will absolutely love down the years rather than a cheap stuff ull always regret having your space.

[@jaaanska]

When I was ~10 I got my first set of furniture since I grew out of the others and I rlly made sure to get simple but sturdy pieces. We went to 4 different furniture stores until I found the ones I liked and I still use them at 22. Hard wood in white with gray- brownish wood and anthracite details. It’s very minimal, clean and modern. They will last me forever and were definitely worth being a bit more pricey than IKEA options at that time. I also moved across Germany with them without any problems. But I had to get a smaller, transportable wardrobe so I went for the KOPPANG for 130€ and it’s amazing! With the Marie Kondo folding technique It stores more clothes than the 2m tall wardrobe at my parents house. I’ve been using the older version of the RENBERGET chair for 12 years now and besides being a bit squeaky now the chair is super light, comfortable and going perfectly with my set of furniture. For just 60€. The fake leather has been coming off a bit lately but I sit it in in every possible way but straight. And for 12 years that’s a damn good quote. When my brother moved out I got his POÄNG chair wich doesn’t go with my style but it’s a classic, comfortable and also budget friendly lounge chair. But my favorite lounge chair would be EKENÄSET. Beautiful and very comfortable and I would definitely pay the 230€ because I know I would never get rid of it! Oh and I’ve been using the FORSA desk lamp and besides being very decorative it’s a very sturdy and movable lamp for just 20€!

[@MamunShaikh]

Perfect timing. Finally got my own place and starting with a blank slate. This video really saved me 🙏🏻

[@justaname999]

Like most people we filled our post-university/grad school apartments with IKEA furniture and never realized that the Klippan could be uncomfortable :D I think I wrote my entire dissertation on that thing. It was usually "get the cheapest or maybe the second-cheapest thing available". The only exception might have been the mattress.

[@deepgsingh]

I really love the idea around creating computer table monitor stand , I had been thinking around creating my own rather than buying. But you put it into the actual pieces. Thank you

[@Bonafidevixen10032]

SUCH great recommendations. I LOVE these sorts of videos cos I can find these products in Australia too! :) I found the Ekenaset through one of these videos and that makes me soooo happy.

[@ShankABat]

that desk shelf is what ive been looking for, just havent been wanting to splah out on brand names, thanks!

[@bazli83]

Thank you for the insight and reasoning. It is definitely helpful to agree and disagree to how clear you articulate why you like and dislike the products

[@krisrowley3160]

Really nicely put together video. Unhurried, thoughtful and good looking. Thanks for the care you take with your videos!

[@1230124]

The best English speaking KZbinr for me , love your way to speak and explain all the home stuff in very clear way!

[@carolhathaway5168]

This video was excellent, although I have to say I really enjoy all your videos. Keep them coming!

[@Billy-oz2yc]

I just love your videos! Keep going Daniel!

[@HamidKarzai]

I wouldn't avoid carpets because they're easily recognizable as IKEA products. I just want them to look good to me and to have a good price/quality ratio. I couldn't care less if some pretentious snob enters my home and thinks "ew, that guy buys from IKEA"

[@sanjamslm]

I’ll just disagree with the stockholm mirror because it is just beautiful. Hello from another arhitect, love your videos👋

[@kfarok_]

Perfect and useful like always

[@demalem]

love the desk riser hack! will definitely be using this :)

[@tea98988]

An artist's tip - the cup holder is great to use it as a pen and or brush holder.

[@Balance275]

I actually love the Millberget chair. I find it more comfortable than other way more expensive brands. The main drawback for me is that the armrests can't be adjusted or removed.

[@xristinarose2409]

Didnt expect this to be such an amazing, helpful video :o instead of random opinions you gave facts where we could actually see them. Thanks 💪

[@muralikasini]

I have decided to go with IKEA because of the wood finish it offers. It's more than enough for me and my family. Looking forward to shop this year.

[@homla8116]

Lack table might be cheap, but we've had ours for 10 years now. 2 kids, 1 cat and a dog, moved cities and houses. I love that table. Sturdy, easy to move around for mopping floors, perfect for boardgames and puzzles. Shelf under holds remote, feet, mess when you need the whole surface for movie night or a game, and currently the cat. Signs of use? Not really no. Yes it's cardboard wrapped in plastic, but that's why it's genious. I've used it as a ladder when changeing curtains or washing windows. No problem. And because it's so cheap, it makes life with kids easier. I won't stress if they spill on is or draw on it. Just scrub and it's good as new.

[@lisabrightly]

You use it as a ladder?! Oh my...

[@lifeisalemon6037]

Thanks for this content. Love it. I laughed so hard about the chair that gives you the retirement mood. Totally agreed!

[@Timmie1995]

The Lack coffee tables are fantastic for students. Ridiculously cheap, functional, and not THAT ugly. Any scratches aren't a problem when you're a student. And you either leave them for the next inhabitant for free, or you sell it for €5. I and 3 others (out of 8) in my complex all had one, and we had 4 or 5 in the living room, stacked to create room for our kitchen appliances because the kitchen was too small. I took mine with me when moving out to replace at a later point, as furnishing your first proper home all at once, when you've just started working, is almost impossible from a financial standpoint. Lack is great, but only in specific use cases.

[@folkies5661]

I'm swedish and all swedes can agree that swedish has many exceptions and difficult words to pronounce. You pronounce it better than most people in the world. BTW: I love your video's they are inspiring to me. I'm a 15 year old swede and my dream job is to be an architect.

[@maxxrenn]

Great video. More of this please. Would like to see bedrooms, dressers, nightstands etc covered

[@laurie2553]

Fantastic video. Subscribed half way through, hope to see many more from you. Going out to Ikea, have a great day.

[@nadiasemprini8459]

I appreciate the choice of IKEA, so there's a chance that here in Italy I can find some of the items!! With other brands, it's so difficult: I can find similar ones and recreate the style, but I can't use your feedback on ergonomy and durability. Having a chemical sensitivity, I can't stand objects that smells a lot, especially plastic ones, and for this purpose, other people's feedback is useless because they simply can't smell the tiny amount that is dangerous for me. But when you all discard for me the less valuable items, I have few remaining items to examinate and test, it's a great starting point!! Thank you so much, that makes my adventures in IKEA stores, less painful. And I have been following this channel for years, it's fantastic when I can see your process in creating a room, I learnt a lot!!

[@zosijana123]

It would be great to have your feedback on which ikea items you can tolerate! For people who don't have the same sensitivity but still want less chemicals in their homes...

[@godmansarah]

Nice video Daniel! 👋That point about taking time on choosing a sofa because it's hard to move in and out and resell, is a good one!

[@yael9137]

I’ve got the Linnebäck chair in my bedroom, which is perfect because it works so well with my Slattum bed. But if you actually intend on sitting in this chair I will say that the seat cushion seems inclined to slide back and deform, exposing the metal rail across the front, even after only sitting in it for a short time. But lol! 😂 I’m sitting on a Klippan sofa with my feet on the bright rainbow Halved rug as I type this comment. But to be fair the Klippan is more comfortable then several of the other budget options that have strangely hard front edges, and my Halved rug means that I can be freer with buying other secondhand items in mixed colours because the rug pulls it all together.

[@hammadsiddiqui2980]

Appreciate your honest review! Thanks for the vid.

[@teamcouders4976]

I absolutely love the LACK coffee table 😊 It's practical, it's cheap, it looks good and it gets the job done!

[@sherry2478]

Very useful information thank you!

[@weil3318]

Thank you for the tips! I like IKEA’s style, contemporary, sleek, young-looking, functional, and space friendly. In crowded big cities where people all live in apartments, Ikea style is super user friendly and considerate. Not mentioning it’s super affordable even for young people.

[@stefans.8027]

Fantastic video! Please more of this ❤

[@markofsaltburn]

Antique prices are at a historic low, so this is a great time to mix and match. I have a bedroom that combines an early 19th Century mahogany table and an 18th Century mirror (neither anywhere near as expensive as they sound) with two shiny white Malm Cabinets and a Krystmass standard lamp, and they all look great together. I love people knowing that I have IKEA stuff.

[@design4nyone793]

I watch and agree and disagree at the same time. I looked through the comments section and saw that many people were angry. Come on, calm down everyone. This is his personal opinion. Everyone has the right to express personal opinions. He doesn't force everyone to agree 100%. Thank you for your advice, I appreciate that.

[@marihillhouse5427]

I love putting together IKEA stuff. BUT I have been ripping my hair out adjusting and lining up the doors and drawers on the Besta storage units I’ve bought. It’s gotten to the point I’m considering returning it all.

[@TheRetroPitstop]

I have the desk drink holder it works great. Super sturdy on my desk. YMMV based on desk material and thickness. I bought it to keep cats from knocking it over and to give more space on the desk since I don't like clutter lol.

[@larainewoodruff3739]

Great video. Was hoping to get your thoughts on their dining tables. Fell in love with the look of the rectangle Ingatorp until I read their reviews about the top material peeling off. 😮

[@alfonseal]

wow amazing reviews

[@ZainBeautifulSoul]

Nice video about IKEA’s furniture. I think i might have like 70% IKEA in my apartment, some bought at full price, some discounted price and some free from their suppliers! They actually have more cheap furnitures compared to expensive ones as one of their objectives is to provide furnitures for the many people with affordable prices….was an IKEA’s employee for 5+years. As to quality wise, high quality is not in the agenda but more to functionality 😬, at least that was part of what their idea was when i was working there some 20 years ago. So whenever a friend or family member says that their IKEA’s furniture quality is terrible, i always tell them not to get from IKEA if they want to have a high quality furniture. So that’s it 🤷🏻‍♀️😊

[@mikalaybourn]

As a big sucker for lighting (especially mood lighting), I can agree that the Dejsa lamp really gives off a more exclusive look than it actually costs. The same goes for their Evedal table lamp with the small exception of it's wooden pillar/beam. I really hate they chose wood there. I wish they would have made that of the same black marble too, just like the foot of the lamp.

[@aesaphyr]

I understand your reasoning for suggesting IKEA makes their coffee tables from solid wood instead of laminated particle board, which would mean they raise their prices as solid wood is a lot more expensive, but it would then just mean a lot of people wouldn't have an IKEA coffee table. I had the Lack tables in my flat for many years - I had the narrow ones, both as coffee tables and as TV/console stands. They were plain and blended into the background, which in a tiny flat was what I needed in order to make it look like the space is larger than it is, instead of a cramped look. If people want solid wood furniture, IKEA already has those, and other places have them too. The cheap particle board furniture is exactly this: furniture that can be bought cheaply. That's the real reason why IKEA's particle board items do so well (Billy bookcase, Lack tables, etc). Different items for different needs.

[@ShadowBlack090]

Most Scandinavian, Finish and Estonian home design is Ikea. And they do it with pride because Ikea brand offers you so many styles. I think what you can buy heavily depends on the country you buy Ikea furniture in.

[@EbrahimRamzat]

I understand your point on the mug holder but I have it and I love it. I put it on the side of the table no in front of me. And honestly I prefer to spell water on the floor and not on my mac keyboard, mac trackpad and $150 logitech mouse 😂

[@EbrahimRamzat]

And the ikea mug holder is very sturdy and you to actually hit it ready hard to fall on the ground.

[@JelathO]

Love the video, recently bought myself a Besta piece as a starting point for my small footprint architecture office. Combined with alex drawers to support my desktop. Every time i see your Besta unit though, I want to come by with a screwdriver to fix those 2-3 doors that aren't aligned. :)

[@Sidsaraiya]

Great idea for a colab video. 😂

[@JelathO]

@@Sidsaraiya yeah, but travelling from Belgium to Canada to turn some screw might be a little on the expensive side xD they won't even allow my screwdriver on the plane 😐

[@kennyjensen8213]

I have the Stefan dinning chairs and when I bought them I tried every type of dinning chairs in my local IKEA, and Stefan was the one I found most comfortable on the lower part of my back, where I have chronic pain.

[@alik4325]

man i love your explanations and thought architects and designers really think alike

[@suecampbell4811]

Dude, I'm watching you on a Tuesday at 9:30 while enjoying my Jura-made chocolate espresso cappuccino because I'm RETIRED (did it in my 50's so don't assume retired means decrepit). After this, I'm going to swim in my pool overlooking a small waterway and then go out and play. You really should choose your words more carefully so as not to alienate some of your viewers. Thanks for the GREAT info - especially about those cubes that make for custom wall systems of storage! Hey, instead of being concerned with the desk drink holder/clamp hanging onto the desk edge, just use a double-walled plastic tumbler with a lid! I use Tervis brand mugs with lids and tall glasses with lids. The coffee stays hot, the ice lasts for hours in my glass and even if I knock them over, little if any liquid comes out. I've done it a few times in my house and each time was a non-issue. Hey - that mushroom lamp that you said was new and contemporary has been around since the 1970's - neither new nor contemporary. More like a mid-century lighting option.

[@rahamimbatten9240]

Could not agree more about waiting on deciding if you need a coffee table. Seems to just take up space and now have better places to put our coffee mugs.

[@carmenthomson6011]

Thank you for this review. I was looking to get a good and understated rug and some where to put my dogs toys that would look good and be easy access and I think I have found both in your review :-)

[@LouisChiaki]

Super happy that my choice of rug Stangerum is mentioned in this video!

[@2008dzl]

Speaking of LÅNGFÄJLL, I recently got one after watching one of your videos and Good Lord this chair is awesome for the price. Really good looking and quite comfortable.

[@jenniferkivovitch5904]

Great video. Really useful info. thank you

[@JRBeckford]

This is AWESOME!!! Thank you for sharing!!!

[@TheSushmaHomeSellingTeam]

Oh, I find this so interesting and timely. Appreciate this, Daniel. ❤❤

[@stupidtookmynick]

I was looking to buy a Klippan couch because it was so cheap, but couldnt afford it yet, so I went to goodwill in Finland. I found the very Klippan sofa......for 12,50€! I had to get it, it was comfortable to sit on and I dont mind forking over 150€ for a new cover from a different store. Best deal ever!

[@feldmanmobility131]

Why don't you do an Ikea kitchen video? I once compared their show room to the one of Bulthaup, and Ikea's aesthetics and design seemed much nicer. At least in my view.

[@AntJoseph_]

The Jättebo looks amazing!

[@Qrulez]

I really don't care that everyone can recognise my furniture comes from IKEA. I don't want my home to look expensive, I just want it to be practical and comfortable. My only non-IKEA items are my dining chairs, simply because I could not find any suitable ones for tall people at IKEA, and one side table hat was gifted to me. IKEA stuff is just great, even the cheapest option usually lasts for 10+ years. As much as I like the idea of durable solid wood furniture that lasts a lifetime, I just don't know where I will be living in the future so it would be a big gamble to get more expensive furniture I might have to get rid of next time I move because it doesn't fit.

[@spatience9244]

Great info. Enjoyed this thank you

[@kchart47]

Very useful video. Great insights. Thanks!

[@DerpEye]

I need to buy another chair soon, and i thought about buying another Markus (which i had for 14 years already), but today i tried the Alfjall. It's the one in real leather with lower back rest. It's actually very comfortable. It costs about 300 money, but all considered it's probably worth it. I actually need to furnish my new apartment soon, and i fully agree on Besta, lamps and Lisabo chairs (all stuff i'll be buying). At Ikea it's actually better to spend more, because items are actually of good quality.