IKEA’s most iconic furniture designs launched by founder Ingvar Kamprad
With the news that the founder of IKEA Ingvar Kamprad, has died, we round up a few of the many clever designs he launched
Image: IKEA
On 27th January, the founder of IKEA and Ikano, Ingvar Kamprad, peacefully passed away at his home in Småland, Sweden at the age of 91.
Having launched IKEA at 17 years old, he became one of the greatest entrepreneurs of the 20th century, headin up the furniture company who is renowned for producing contemporary, affordable furniture for the masses.
Jesper Brodin, CEO and President of the IKEA Group said: ‘His legacy will be admired for many years to come and his vision – to create a better everyday life for the many people – will continue to guide and inspire us.’
Image: Ingvar Kamprad, IKEA
Having led the company for over 70 years with a passion for reducing costs, IKEA became one of the world’s largest furniture companies, known for modular, low-cost furniture that came in flatpack.
Lars Thorsén, CEO of Ikano Group paid tribute: ‘Ingvar’s extensive knowledge and engagement over the years have been a huge source of inspiration. His heritage is always with us and we will continue to constantly search for new and better ways – to find solutions that no one else has thought of and to do great things for the many people, together.’
Leaving a greatest legacy, we round up the most iconic IKEA designs Ingvar Kamprad commisioned that have stood the test of time.
Lovet table, 1956
Image: IKEA
Reintroduced in 2013 and renamed Lövbacken, the leaf shaped side table with mahogany veneer and gold accented legs, started a flat-pack revolution.
Billy bookcase, 1978
Image: IKEA
From a single bookcase to a wall-to-wall library, the BILLY bookcase system does it all.
Simple and versatile, more than 60 million have been sold worldwide, and IKEA makes 15 more of them every minute.
Poäng chair, 1976
Image: IKEA
Living proof of timeless design, the Poäng chair – originally Poem – is turning 42 this year.
Designed by Japanese designer, Noboru Nakamura, the flexible chair now has one new frame and six new covers to add to the existing range of combinations.
Ivar storage system, 1968
Image: IKEA
Designed so you can combine different pieces to suit your space, the Ivar is a DIY dream.
Made in solid pine and with finishes in paint or oil, the modular storage system celebrates 50 years this year.
Klippan sofa, 1980
Image: IKEA
In a simple and timeless design, the Klippan sofa is one of IKEA’s most popular and longstanding products.
Affordable and versatile, it can be easily personalised with reupholstery or a simple slipcover.
Have you any of these influential IKEA designs at home? Tweet us @goodhomesmag or post a comment on our Facebook page.