Does the brand name with it's blue and yellow logo look familiar?
The brand is known for producing and selling office and household furniture, and other household products and caters to all categories of people including those on a tight budget.
It is also well known for it's simple and stylish pieces and prides itself on producing eco-friendly products that meet the taste of modern trends and lifestyle.
Even in parts of Africa like Nigeria IKEA products have been spotted on popular online stores like Jumia and Konga. IKEA currently has one store in Africa and it is located in Egypt. I was only able to get a few items through an Israeli connection.
What Does IKEA Mean?
IKEA is the name of a popular Swedish lifestyle brand and the term is derived from the founder's name, the farm where he grew up, and his home town in this pattern Ingvar Kamprad Elmtaryd Agunnaryd.
The Highlights of IKEA Products Include
i. They are very affordable
ii. They come in ready to assemble packs
iii. You are a proud co-creator of your furniture
iv. They work perfectly for families that are always on the move
v. They are stylish and simple
vi. They are eco friendly
They are Very Affordable: A trendy and fashionable home doesn't have to cost you all your savings. Putting together pieces to create the right feel and ambiance in your home can be achieved by purchasing low-cost furnishing which gives the desired end result anyway.
They Come in Ready to Assemble packs: The beauty of these products is the fact that it comes n ready to assemble packaging. All that is needed is for you to follow the detailed instructions that come with the package. When all instructions are followed you end up with a piece you can truly call your own especially when you have added a special touch to personalize your piece furniture.
You are a Proud Co-creator of your Furniture: The idea of products revolves around giving you a sense of pride in being part of the production of your desired piece. It is well known that taking being part in the building of a piece of furniture leaves you with a sense of satisfaction of being a part creator. This raises the value of the furniture in your eyes and you tend to show more care and attention to that furniture.
They work perfectly for families that are always on the move: IKEA furniture is great for people who are always on the move and may not be able o carry furniture around. The inexpensive yet classy nature of products makes them the best choice for people and families that are constantly on the go. The price tags on the products it easy to gift it to others without breaking a sweat in the event of another move.
They are stylish and simple: All IKEA products are built with comfort and style in mind and options to suit your current living space. This is a perfect option for those with a minimalist lifestyle.
They are eco friendly: Did I mention they are eco friendly?: Yes, IKEA products are eco friendly so if you are a lover of greener options think IKEA.
Billy bookcase
What are the Drawbacks of IKEA products
While IKEA products have a lot of advantages that work so well there are some drawbacks that may cause them not to appeal to some persons like
1. They are not very sturdy because they are made from particle boards. Did I hear someone scream "particle boards"? Yes, most of them are made from packed wood particles that have been compressed into boards.
This means the furniture pieces are lightweight and can easily chip, or break. So they are better suited for singles or families that have no intention to exert any stress on the furniture. This makes it not so suitable for families with very active children.
2. The price range makes products affordable so you might not find any furniture that is unique to your home. You may have to add a few more touches to your furniture to truly personalize it. There is nothing as irritating as going somewhere else and finding your exact home furnishing.
3. You may not be able to assemble the piece right so you get to live with your end result however it may look.
4. The simple designs may not suit the taste of some who want intricate designs that particle boards cannot support.
Having listed these, you may be forced to ask if I personally use IKEA products? Yes. I do and I especially love the billy bookcase.
Mine has lasted for 13 years, despite being moved across different towns and cities 6 times. There are cracks, chips, and additional nails put in to ensure it doesn't fall apart. On the whole, it is still in good condition.
I don't know what I'll do with the books stacked in my billy bookcase if I didn't have one.
My secret is that I have NEVER tried to dismantle and reassemble it.
It is moved intact.
Malm reading table by IKEA
My Malm reading table on the other hand did not survive for long, I left it in my late grandmother in law's care but it is not the same again.
I have since discarded hopes of ever using it again. But if I get to the point when I am sure my family would not move again, I would certainly think of getting another one.
So, what happens if I do not want mass-produced furnishing?
The idea of having mass-produced furnishing may not appeal to some. There are those who may not want to buy products from IKEA outlets but want simple pieces that they can be attached to, DIY is a good option.
This will allow you to use any material of your choice, and claim total ownership of your piece. Another alternative is to check antique shops to shop for the pieces you love and would be proud to say that they are unique and not mass-produced.
So, feel free to build, buy, or design your own piece and showcase your individual strait or personality. And if you can afford high-end furnishing, why not indulge yourself and enjoy your choices.
Disclaimer: This is not a paid post but my opinion about a brand I use and love. My experience may not be the same as yours but ultimately they have been pleasant
I have a couple pieces from Ikea and I love them, especially our mirrored bathroom cabinet.
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