Disclosure: this post may contain affiliate links, which means I may make a commission if you decide to make a purchase through one of my links, at no cost to you.
Boring home maintenance aside, I’ve been perusing the 2013 Ikea catalog. I realize that as a DIYer who blogs about home decor all the time, I’m a little late to the game on this one since it’s been sitting in my mailbox for weeks (and then a few more as it waited in my car to read during lunch). But the good news is that it’s a 2013 catalog -so in theory, I’m still ahead of the game. Or something. Anywho, here are the things I found the most interesting:
Fabrics
I am really loving this black and white layout with the modern floral runner. Considering how inexpensive Ikea fabric is, creating a runner (especially a no-sew one) would really punch up an otherwise simple meal with minimal investment.
These curtains are also fun. I’ve already purchased mine for the dining room, but if I hadn’t, I might have considered these.
Kitchen
Sure, the tile may not be from Ikea, but I use the catalog as inspiration elsewhere, too. These extra long backsplash tiles are the shiz. Guess I’m on the lookout for my next tile shopping trip (which won’t be for a while but a good thing to keep in mind).
Oraganization
I really like the mix here for closed versus open storage. The two tones also delineate use (black, closed storage for closet space; white, open shelving for books and display items).
These small drawer units might be perfect for my hand-built office desk.
Color Code
Throughout the catalog, Ikea suggests painting their items or covering them in fabric to create one-of-a-kind pieces. While this graffiti dresser isn’t exactly my cup of tea, it’s nice to see Ikea has perfectly identified its customer base of DIYers (who like personalization!).
Greening Up
One of the things I found the most interesting about the catalog had nothing to do with the design of the furniture at all – it’s that the furniture may not even actually be there. To reduce costs, Ikea has begun using 3-D imaging to virtually generate its catalog pages and essentially fake the furnishings that you see. Considering how many times Ikea probably has to build and break down a set for its print and online media, this move saves a lot of green by going green. And bonus: the reduced costs are passed along to consumers with lower prices, too. The geek in me is intrigued.
Repurposing
What did you like best about Ikea’s new stuff? I’m on my way to Ikea to pick up that bowl, no doubt. Right stat now (name that show!). Have a great weekend!
(I was not paid or provided free product for this post. Images credits: Ikea.)
100% in love with the idea of turning that bowl into a light! LOVE LOVE LOVE! Can't wait to see you do it. I'm sure it will look totally amazing. I really need to get my butt in gear to finish my study-o (as you would put it) light!
Mmmm Ikea. Now I want meatballs and lingonberry……. we still need to plan a trip!
I LOVE Ikea! The closest one to me is about 4 hours away. :( But I do get their catalog and get to shop online. And once in a blue moon we have to go somewhere that is remotely near Ikea and we make a mandatory stop (and make sure we have plenty of room in the vehicle beforehand).
I love IKEA… just found it recently and am inspired to do so much more in the house. I've already redone the living room with great bookcases and tv stand (always wanted to cover the whole wall and did it with IKEA)and we redid my son's room as well…. I just wish I'd known about IKEA when the kids were smaller… BUT there are grandkids to look forward too! :)