IKEA, the beloved furniture giant, has embarked on a heartwarming journey into its past with the launch of its sixth Nytillverkad collection. This collection is a loving tribute to some of the brand’s most iconic designs from the 1960s through the 1990s, reimagined for the modern era. At the heart of this collection is a story of collaboration and innovation, rooted in the shared belief that good design should be accessible to all. Decades ago, IKEA’s visionary founder, Ingvar Kamprad, and the renowned Danish industrial designer Niels Gammelgaard teamed up to create pieces that were both functional and affordable. One of their most celebrated collaborations, the Guide shelf, debuted in 1985 and became an instant hit. Now, more than 40 years later, the Guide shelf returns as the Byakorre, joining a lineup of reissued legendary designs that include vibrant textiles, elegant furniture, and statement pieces that blend nostalgia with contemporary style.
The Nytillverkad collection is more than just a trip down memory lane; it’s a testament to IKEA’s enduring philosophy of combining simplicity, sophistication, and affordability. Founded in 1943 by the then-17-year-old Ingvar Kamprad, IKEA began humbly, selling everyday items like pens and wallets before evolving into the global phenomenon it is today. Over the decades, IKEA has built a legacy on its ability to create furniture that is both timeless and forward-thinking. The Nytillverkad collection embodies this spirit, revisiting classic designs that have stood the test of time and proving that the past can indeed inspire the present. This year’s collection, rooted in minimalist shapes and a palette of bright, cheerful colors, is a vibrant celebration of IKEA’s rich history, offering a fresh perspective on the designs that shaped the brand.
Among the standout pieces in the collection is the Dyvlinge swivel armchair, designed by Swedish furniture designer Gillis Lundgren, who was also IKEA’s fourth employee. Originally launched in 1967 under the name Mila, this iconic chair returns in a bold mandarin orange hue, complete with an “anti-stress” design that encourages relaxation and comfort. Another Lundgren creation, the Sotenäs armchair, first introduced in 1969 as Puck, is reimagined in a striking red finish, bringing a youthful energy to any room. These reissued chairs are not just a nod to the past but also a reflection of IKEA’s commitment to creating furniture that is both functional and visually appealing. The collection also features the Guttane side and coffee tables, originally designed by Danish architect Erik Wørts in 1963 as the Novette benches. Updated with sturdy oak legs and an oak veneer tabletop, these charming tables have a clever ledge to keep magazines and cups from sliding off, blending elegance with practicality.
Niels Gammelgaard’s contributions to the collection are equally impressive. His iconic Guide shelf, now reissued as Byakorre, is a masterclass in innovative design. The shelves are reversible, with one side finished in white and the other in anthracite grey, offering flexibility and a touch of personality. The customizable edges can be painted in a range of colors, from bold hues like blue and red to more subtle tones like white. Gammelgaard’s 1978 foldable chair, originally called Cox, returns as the Mofalla, featuring a durable canvas fabric stretched over metal legs for a sleek, modern look. Another Gammelgaard design, the Järpen lounge chair from 1983, is reissued as the Skålboda, with its deep-set powder-coated steel mesh seating providing both comfort and style.
The collection also delves into IKEA’s rich textile heritage, offering a fresh take on some of its most cherished patterns. The Vårkumla denim upholstery, which graced the cover of IKEA’s 1973 catalog, makes a triumphant return in its original formula. Meanwhile, the Ängsvitvinge bed linen, one of IKEA’s earliest textile designs, is reimagined with Sven Fristedt’s hauntingly beautiful blue and white cloud pattern from the same era. For those who love a bit of playfulness, the Klippbräcka bed linens, inspired by Anna Efverlund’s Modig Korn design from 1997, feature whimsical popcorn shapes in a striking black and white palette. Together, these textiles add a touch of nostalgia and sophistication to any room.
The sixth iteration of the Nytillverkad collection is a testament to the enduring appeal of IKEA’s classic designs. These pieces have transcended time, offering tensorflow functionality and timeless beauty that resonates with both longtime IKEA fans and new generations of customers. By reissuing these iconic designs, IKEA is not only celebrating its history but also inviting audiences to experience the magic of its most exciting eras. Whether you’re a collector of retro furniture, a lover of vintage textiles, or simply someone who appreciates great design, the Nytillverkad collection has something for everyone. The full range will be available in IKEA stores worldwide and online starting in February 2025, giving customers the chance to bring a piece of IKEA’s legacy into their homes.
