The Best IKEA Finds: Chic, Functional, and Loved by Designers
IKEA is known worldwide for flat-pack furniture, Swedish meatballs, and endless aisles of inspiration. But beyond the classics, there’s a treasure trove of hidden gems that combine style, function, and affordability — the kind of pieces interior designers secretly rely on.
From sculptural lamps and luxurious textiles to modular sofas, versatile storage, and statement mirrors, these underrated IKEA finds are accessible, functional, and feel far more expensive than their price tags.
Whether you’re updating your living room, bedroom, or kitchen, this guide highlights IKEA items that elevate your home with designer-approved style.
Lighting That Transforms a Space
1. NYMANE Table Lamp
Price: $49.99 | Shop here ›
Both modern and sculptural, the NYMANE lamp casts a soft, ambient glow, making it perfect for cozy corners, bedside tables, or living room accents.
Why designers love it: This lamp makes a design statement will also bringing warmth and depth to any interior, providing the look of a boutique piece without the hefty price tag.
Styling tip: Pair with a linen throw, ceramic vase, and stack of design books to create a layered, magazine-worthy vignette.
2. STOCKHOLM Yellow Textile Table Lamp
Price: $79.99 | Shop here ›
Bright yellow textile shade atop a minimalist base brings a playful pop of color to a living room or bedroom.
Why designers love it: The fabric diffuses light softly while the bold hue acts as a cheerful accent, brightening neutral or monochrome spaces.
Styling tip: Use in pairs on nightstands or a sideboard to create symmetry and a coordinated look in the room.
3. DEJSA Table Lamp
Price: $89.99 | Shop here ›
Opal glass gives this lamp a warm, diffused light. Its rounded silhouette is sculptural and softens angular furniture arrangements.
Why designers love it: Adds subtle sophistication and versatility. Works equally well on desks, bedside tables, or accent tables.
Styling tip: Place a trio at staggered heights for a layered, editorial look.
4. Large Rice Paper Pendant (GULLSUDARE)
Price: $9.99 | Shop here ›
Chic and timeless! This oversized rice paper pendant that transforms any space with ethereal, diffused lighting.
Why designers love it: Minimalist, sculptural, and low-cost — perfect for layering multiple pendants over a dining table or creating statement lighting in bedrooms.
Styling tip: Hang two or three at varying heights for visual interest and high-end appeal.
Seating and Sofas
5. SÖDERHAMN Sofa
Price: From $695 | Shop here ›
Deep, modular, low-profile, and supremely comfortable — the SÖDERHAMN is ideal for modern, Scandinavian-style spaces.
Why designers love it: Its airy frame allows for endless styling variations, while companies like BEMZ create custom covers in linen, velvet, or boucle to make it feel bespoke.
Styling tip: Combine with a STOCKHOLM bench as a coffee table to create a versatile and layered living space.
6. STOCKHOLM Sofa
Price: $1,999 | Shop here ›
Structured, cushioned, and timeless. STOCKHOLM sofas pair perfectly with neutral palettes, layered textiles, and modern lighting.
Why designers love it: Durable upholstery, mid-century-inspired proportions, and enduring style make this sofa a long-term investment piece that can anchor any room.
Styling tip: Add textured throws and patterned pillows for a curated designer look.
7. SKÅLBODA Armchair
Price: $99 | Shop here ›
Soft curves provide a sculptural yet inviting seating option.
Why designers love it: Its rounded silhouette adds softness to angular furniture layouts while keeping a minimalist aesthetic.
Styling tip: Pair with a woven basket or side table for a layered, editorial vignette.
8. SKARPÖ Outdoor Armchair
Price: $119 | Shop here ›
Durable, weatherproof, and stylish for patios or balconies.
Why designers love it: Combines practicality with Scandinavian design simplicity, making outdoor spaces feel curated and resort-like.
Styling tip: Add neutral cushions and a lantern cluster for a chic, relaxed vibe.
9. STOCKHOLM Bench with Pad
Price: $399 | Shop here ›
Versatile bench that can double as a coffee table or extra seating.
Why designers love it: Its walnut veneer and upholstered pad make it feel custom. Great for layering textures and surfaces in living rooms.
Styling tip: Top with art books and a ceramic vase to transform it into a coffee table alternative.
Storage and Organization
10. PAX Closet System
Price: From $695 | Shop here ›
Fully modular, the PAX system allows for custom closets with drawers, shelves, and glass fronts.
Why designers love it: It’s infinitely adaptable and can feel bespoke with BEMZ custom doors and panels.
Styling tip: Add lighting inside for a boutique dressing-room effect.
11. KLIPPKAKTUS Storage Boxes
Price: $5.99 | Shop here ›
Stackable, clear boxes for fridge and pantry organization.
Why designers love it: Turns messy storage into visually appealing, functional spaces.
Styling tip: Use labels for a minimalist, editorial look in kitchens or pantries.
12. SKÅDIS Pegboard
Price: $29.99 | Shop here ›
Adaptable wall storage for offices, kitchens, or garages.
Why designers love it: Modular, clean, and highly functional — turns clutter into curated, visible storage.
Styling tip: Combine baskets and hooks in neutral tones for a cohesive appearance.
13. NORDHAGG Picture Ledge
Price: $4.99 | Shop here ›
Perfect for rotating art displays, books, and décor.
Why designers love it: Allows for a curated, flexible gallery wall that can evolve without permanent commitment.
Styling tip: Layer prints of different heights and textures for a collected, editorial feel.
14. BUMERANG Wooden Hangers
Price: $7.99 for 8 | Shop here ›
Minimalist and consistent in weight.
Why designers love it: Uniform hangers instantly elevate a closet’s visual appeal, giving it a curated, boutique look.
Styling tip: Combine with PAX storage for an organized and polished wardrobe.
Dining & Kitchen Essentials
15. STOCKHOLM Serving Plates
Price: $14.99 Shop here
Elegant stoneware with organic edges.
Why designers love it: Timeless design and neutral palette make it versatile for casual meals or elegant dinners.
Styling tip: Pair with linen napkins, candles, and REKO glasses for a refined tablescape. Could also see this on an entry table for keys.
16. REKO Glasses
Price: $3.99 for 6 | Shop here ›
Stackable, versatile, and clean.
Why designers love it: Elevates any table setting effortlessly with its understated elegance.
Styling tip: Use for all meals or cocktails for cohesive tabletop styling.
17. IKEA 365+ Knife & Cookware
Durable, balanced, and professional-feeling.
Why designers love it: Reliable, long-lasting, and functional — every tool looks stylish displayed on open shelving.
18. DRAGON Flatware
Satin-finished stainless steel with ergonomic feel.
Why designers love it: Simple, minimal, and weighty, elevating everyday dining without being fussy.
Bedroom & Bedding
19. SOLFIBBLA Duvet Cover and Pillowcases
Price: $39.99 Shop here
Crisp, blue-and-white striped cotton percale.
Why designers love it: Timeless Scandinavian style that layers well with other textiles.
Styling tip: Combine with DYTÅG linen curtains and textured throws for a magazine-ready bedroom.
20. DYTÅG Linen Curtains
Soft, flowing, high-quality linen.
Why designers love it: Creates a relaxed, luxurious feel and frames windows elegantly.
21. TONSTAD Bed Frame
Price: $749 Shop here
Rounded oak edges, minimalist design.
Why designers love it: Feels high-end, sturdy, and timeless.
Accessories & Decor
22. HÖNSTAGILLE Pie Plate
Price: $14.99 Shop here
White-glazed stoneware, both functional and decorative.
Why designers love it: Adds artisanal charm while serving, and can be displayed on open shelves for aesthetic value.
23. HOVET Mirror
Price: $169 for 30×77″ mirror Shop here
Tall, leaner-style mirror perfect for bedrooms or entryways.
Why designers love it: IKEA mirrors provide unmatched value per square foot, making them a designer favorite for adding light and depth.
24. STOCKHOLM TV Unit
Price: $449 Shop here
Walnut veneer, mid-century-inspired proportions.
Why designers love it: Combines functionality with style — anchors media areas without overwhelming a space.
25. Candles, trays, seasonal décor
Simple accessories for layering interiors.
Why designers love it: Minimal, affordable, and high-impact ways to add warmth and texture.
The STOCKHOLM Legacy
The STOCKHOLM collection — sofas, lamps, serving plates, and benches — embodies thoughtful materials and timeless shapes. Designers adore it for its hand-blown glass, walnut veneers, and enduring quality, making it a sophisticated choice that feels curated and luxe.
These IKEA finds prove that style, function, and affordability can coexist beautifully. Lighting, seating, storage, textiles, and tabletop pieces work together to elevate any home. With a few layered textures, strategic lighting, and thoughtful accessories, your space can feel editorial, curated, and timeless — all without breaking the bank.
