Is it just us, or does it feel like it is ages since shops were open, and we could spend a Sunday having a good browse.
Here's hoping we will fly through the levels and have everything open again – because right now, we are dying for a good nosy around IKEA. Especially since we just got a sneak peen at their brand new collection for spring/summer 2021 – and trust me, it's a good one.
The Swedish furniture giant explains with this latest collection it will be moving away from 'seasonal' trends, as it hopes shoppers will embrace sustainable choices through 'transitions'. And unlike previous homeware drops, IKEA are looking at the small ways we can adapt and change our homes by investing in quality products that stand the test of time.
This, of course, is all part of IKEA's goal of becoming a fully circular and climate positive business by 2030.
'Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do at IKEA,' the retailer explains. 'From how we design our products, through to initiatives like Buy Back, our ambition is to create more affordable and easily accessible solutions to help people live more sustainably.'
The three transitions for the coming seasons focus on three key areas of the home that will take centre stage during the spring/summer period:
Outdoor Escapism
Oh, how we want to live outside again!
Addressing our desire to establish and enjoy our own personal slice of outdoor paradise, no matter how big or small. Since lockdown, our outdoor spaces have become a blissful extension of our homes, with the long summer days, nights and ongoing uncertainty around travel beckoning us to rekindle and strengthen this connection.
And with these latest items from IKEA; it becomes easy to create the ideal zone for entertaining and relaxing with space-saving furniture, benches, footstools and tables in a range of stylish hues.
'Extend your chill out zone out in the open and enjoy the fresh air with small and simple updates to your outdoor area,' says Rosheen Forbes, Commercial Activity & Events Leader at IKEA UK and Ireland.
Clear away gardening essentials, tools, and picnic rugs not in use with IKEA's clever storage unit. As part of the Swedish retailer's Outdoor Escapism range, it has been designed to 'cater for our many needs' and provide an 'alternative workspace'.
We also love all the clever balconu furniture in the new range.
'Limited space shouldn't be a hinderance when creating your personal oasis, playing with storage solutions with different heights will help maximise what you have available.
'For example, the HYLLIS shelving unit is sturdy and lightweight. Simply stack pots of different sizes and fill them with your favourite herbs, flowers and plants to create a lush, zen spot.'
Everyday celebrations
Wveryday Celebrations focuses on enjoying the simple pleasures in life, living in the present and appreciating the beautiful moments in the here and now. From cooking and eating to resting and playing, it’s time to embrace our playfulness, need for relaxation and desire to spend time with loved ones.
'Create an enticing and welcoming atmosphere to disconnect, relax and celebrate together with an easy and joyful table setting,' continues Rosheen.
'The new festive INBJUDEN collection has everything you need to create a magical mood for your special occasion, from glassware, napkins and candlesticks, to decorative pom-poms and garlands.'
Add a pop of colour to your garden or terrace with cosy cushions, rugs and throws. It's never too early to start dreaming about those long, balmy summer evenings...
'Textiles are a quick, easy and affordable way to transform your space and express your personality,' adds Rosheen.
Practical pieces
Taking inspiration from
Japandi — a Japanese and Scandinavian hybrid — the Home Sanctuary range taps into the higher demand for harmony and wellbeing at home. Whether you're keeping a lookout for gorgeous storage units or mood-boosting
accessories, IKEA offers plenty of solutions for making the most of each room in your house.
Home sanctuary
The Home Sanctuary range caters to our desire to set up a zen haven and sense of harmony in our homes.
Taking inspiration from ‘Japandi’, it focuses on simplicity, functionality and fluidity, with emotional storage for our most treasured belongings, sculptural and sleek shapes and decorative touches celebrating texture and asymmetry.
Create a comforting space by hiding away items in neatly-stacked boxes. While our belongings are what makes a home, clearing clutter will reduce stress and anxiety, improve your sleep, and boost your levels of creativity.
As part of IKEA's Home Sanctuary range, you'll find all you need to tidy your space, from gorgeous woven baskets to practical boxes.
