Design, Nature, and Heritage in the IKEA STOCKHOLM 2025 Collection
In a world where speed and overcrowding have become the norm, Sweden reminds us of the values of simplicity, silence, and balance. This Nordic country, known for its rich nature, inclusivity, and functional mindset, has inspired the world for decades.
In Sweden, nature and humanity exist in harmony. Summers are spent on the archipelago islands, while winters cherish the warmth of home. In a country where access to nature is legally guaranteed – through the principle of allemansrätten – people are devoted to deep sense of simplicity, sustainability and connection to the environment.
Out of these very values, Swedish design has evolved. And that’s why it’s not just about aesthetics – it’s a philosophy of life.
Scandinavian Design: More Than Just Beautiful Furniture
Lagom – not too much, not too little – is at the core of Scandinavian aesthetics. Swedish design combines functionality with beauty, practicality with a sense of warmth. It is discreet, unobtrusive, yet profoundly present in everyday life.
This kind of design IKEA tries to bring into homes worldwide. The story of this brand started over 80 years ago, in the small Swedish town of Älmhult, where the IKEA museum still stands, where global campaigns are created, and new products are developed and tested. The founder, Ingvar Kamprad, was known for his simple ways of life – traveling economy class, driving an old Volvo, and believing in the power of modesty.
Kamprad used to say: “Design should not be a luxury.” And this idea of “good design for everyone” has shaped IKEA’s philosophy and the way we think about our own homes. Building on this belief, IKEA has spent decades successfully democratizing design – making it accessible, functional, sustainable, and high-quality.
The STOCKHOLM Collection: 40 Years of Quiet Elegance
Marking the 40th anniversary of its iconic STOCKHOLM collection, IKEA has unveiled its newest and largest edition yet. STOCKHOLM 2025 features 96 carefully crafted pieces, from sofas and rugs to ceramic tableware. It epitomizes the Swedish way of life: gentle with nature, thoughtful, yet warm and cozy.
Craftsmanship, Nature, and Emotion
Every detail of the collection reflects respect for craftsmanship and natural materials – solid wood, rattan, ceramics, and wool. Traditional techniques and hand-finishing have resulted in durable and beautiful design pieces that stand the test of time and age with grace. Shapes and textures echo Swedish landscapes: islands, forests, silences. The tones are restrained yet rich – ranging from the fresh greens of spring to the muted grays of winter light. Motifs and patterns on certain items reflect the changing seasons in Sweden.
This harmonious vision was brought to life by three Swedish designers – Ola Wihlborg, Nike Karlsson, and Paulin Machado – who joined forces to create a collection in which all elements harmoniously complement each other yet can also stand out on their own.
More Than Interiors: A Space for Small Rituals
In Sweden, the concept of fika – a pause for coffee and conversation, a moment for connection and rest – is cherished. STOCKHOLM 2025 is made to create spaces where we can nurture ourselves and those we love. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet cup of tea by the window or sharing a moment with family after dinner, these pieces don’t dominate the room – they gently enhance it.
Sense of calm and warmth is embodied in the collection’s sofas, designed to invite relaxation. Ola Wihlborg’s modular sofa is available in four colors, while another model, made of solid pine wood and natural fibers, designed by Nike Karlsson, adds a touch of natural elegance. Complementing these are hand-blown glass vases, porcelain tableware, chandeliers inspired by retro aesthetics, and linen fabrics – all of which bring the character of craftsmanship into the home. Each item reflects a commitment to quality and authenticity contributing to the harmony of the space.
Natural Simplicity and Sustainability
Sweden has long embraced sustainability as a fundamental value. It is an everyday practice – from recycling and cycling to energy-efficient homes and laws protecting nature – everything is aligned with harmony with the environment. In a society that believes in shared responsibility for preserving natural resources, design is created to endure.
That is why STOCKHOLM 2025 places special emphasis on longevity and quality. The high-quality materials chosen for the collection are those that grow more beautiful with age.
These values are reflected not only in IKEA’s products, but also in the way the company operates – through a business model rooted in circularity, renewable energy, and responsible sourcing.
Design with a Purpose
The STOCKHOLM 2025 collection invites us to reflect on what we truly seek in our spaces.
As Karin Gustavsson, who led the creative team behind this collection at IKEA of Sweden, put it: “We worked to create a collection where every piece tells its own story.” And that story, much like Sweden itself, is simple – yet lingers with quiet strength.
Ultimately, STOCKHOLM 2025 captures the essence of IKEA’s vision: to create a better everyday life for the many people – not just through furniture, but through spaces that support who we are and how we live.