Summarize and humanize this content to 2000 words in 6 paragraphs in EnglishIKEA makes its highly anticipated return to Milan Design Week, bringing a curated selection of new iconic pieces and a celebration of design and music. After two years at the Padiglione Visconti, in the heart of the Tortona district, the brand has relocated to a new, vibrant venue—Tenoha at Via Vigevano 18—just a short distance away, offering visitors a fresh perspective on its design philosophy. IKEA’s participation in Milan Design Week goes beyond showcasing products—it is an opportunity to engage with global cultural conversations around design, sustainability and how the brand’s core values intersect with diverse cultural contexts. Last year, at the Padiglione Visconti, IKEA introduced 1st (First), an exhibition that delved into life’s defining “firsts,” such as the experience of living independently. The space was transformed into a universal home, sparking a global conversation about the diverse ways in which people live, influenced by culture, environment, and context.This year, at Tenoha, IKEA presents two major highlights. Designed by long-time collaborators, architect Midori Hasuike and spatial designer Emerzon, the space will showcase how sustainability and quality are key drivers for long-lasting change. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience the launch of the STOCKHOLM 2025 collection, which honors its roots by reimagining the iconic line first introduced in 1985, alongside the exhibition Do Something. Change Everything. This exhibit emphasizes IKEA’s dedication to inspiring positive daily habits while illustrating the significant steps the brand is taking to ensure its products remain sustainable and accessible for all. By doing so, IKEA continues to position itself as a cultural influence, fostering a global dialogue on the intersection of design, sustainability and social responsibility. IKEA’s core philosophy: designing for the many, not the few Both of these highlights reflect IKEA’s core philosophy of Democratic Design, a concept embedded in the brand’s DNA from the start, and first shared with the world during its debut at Milan Design Week 30 years ago. Today, with over 400 stores globally, IKEA remains synonymous with affordable, accessible design. But the story began long before that. It started in the small village of Agunnaryd, Småland, Sweden, with a simple yet powerful question: why should high-quality furniture be reserved for the wealthy? Design should be for the many, not the few. It should be neither a symbol of wealth nor a byproduct of poor quality. It should be sustainable and available to everyone. Design should be democratic. According to the principles of IKEA’s philosophy, Democratic Design aims to create a better everyday life for the many. It is a delicate balance between two seemingly opposing forces: volume or sustainability? Business or community? Low price or high quality? The answer is simple: both. This approach is based on five core pillars: form, function, sustainability, quality and affordability. These pillars make it possible for everyone, regardless of their background or education, to engage in discussions about products—what works and what doesn’t.Crafting pieces that endure for decadesThe STOCKHOLM 2025 collection perfectly aligns with IKEA’s ongoing mission. It celebrates the essence of Democratic Design, where each piece achieves the ideal balance between quality and accessibility. Originally launched in 1985, STOCKHOLM was created to meet the growing demand for stylish yet affordable furniture. Designed by Karin Mobring and Tomas Jelinek, the collection honored the best traditions of Swedish and Central European furniture, with a vision to craft pieces that would endure for decades. The carefully chosen materials, grounded in expert craftsmanship, were built to stand the test of time.This year’s exhibition, Do Something. Change Everything., complements this mission by exploring how small, everyday decisions can drive transformative change. The exhibition highlights how even the most modest choices can have a powerful impact on our lives and the world around us. IKEA demonstrates how sustainable materials, responsible design, and a commitment to quality can create lasting change. The exhibition is a powerful reminder of how Democratic Design can shape not just the products we live with, but the environment in which we live.A creative hub of design, music and inspirationAs always during Milan Design Week, IKEA’s space will serve as a vibrant hub of relaxation and inspiration. Open every day from morning until night, it will welcome a diverse range of visitors — from design enthusiasts to music lovers, foodies and creatives. In addition to the exhibition, the venue will host a variety of exciting activities, including live performances by house bands and art collectives from Milan and beyond. These evening events will be open to all, with no prior registration required. Daily talks and workshops will also take place, providing visitors with the chance to dive into thought-provoking discussions with Public Possession, a creative collective from Munich. IKEA and The Glitch Camp: embracing a good night’s sleep at Milan Design WeekIKEA’s presence at Milan Design Week 2025 extends beyond its location at Via Vigevano 18. For the second consecutive year, the brand is proud to support The Glitch Camp project, organized by the European Institute of Design (IED). This year, the camp will expand its capacity, welcoming up to 600 students at the Enrico Cappelli Sports Center. The concept behind “glitch,” often referring to a disruption or error, perfectly captures the spirit of The Glitch Camp, where challenges are transformed into opportunities. This unique urban camp, designed as a creative space for students during Design Week, fosters personal growth and socializing through unexpected solutions.As part of this initiative, IKEA Italia will provide “perfect sleep kits” for each camp tent, ensuring participants can rest comfortably after a busy day of design activities. These kits are part of IKEA’s broader focus on the importance of sleep and well-being, which the brand has explored over the past year. According to IKEA’s most recent Life at Home Report, in fact, 55% of people consider rest the most important domestic activity for well-being, underscoring the need for a good night’s sleep. IKEA’s commitment to promoting quality sleep also extends to its design philosophy, emphasizing how a well-organized home environment can foster better rest and overall well-being. The brand’s involvement in The Glitch Camp not only highlights its support for student creativity but also reflects its ongoing dedication to exploring how design can enhance every aspect of our lives, including our sleep. In addition, IKEA will collaborate with IED students to design both indoor and outdoor communal spaces using second-hand furniture, further demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and the circular economy.IKEA’s exhibition will be held at Tenoha, Via Vigevano 18, from April 8 to 13. The venue will be open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, and on Sunday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
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