You?ve got to look beyond the particle board Ikea is known for producing affordable, Scandinavian-modern furniture, but not all of the store?s flat-pack offerings are shown to stand the test of time. The store can get a bad rap for pieces that fall apart after a move or lose their shine at the first instance of wear and tear. But the Swedish furniture giant actually has a number of sturdy, high-quality items that even your most design-obsessed friends will admire. You just need to know what to look for.
Whether you?re furnishing your first living room or looking to upgrade a worn-out bedroom set, here are a handful of expert tips and tricks from Jules Yap, founder of Ikea Hackers, and interior designer Jen Chu for spotting Ikea?s best-made designs?without getting overwhelmed.
1. Actually go to the showroom
While online shopping is the most convenient way to peruse Ikea?s 10,000-plus products, you?ll have a much better idea of a piece?s construction and material quality if you see it in the flesh. Nothing beats your own experience testing out a piece of furniture when you?re looking for something that?ll last. If it seems rickety in the showroom, there?s no way it?ll feel more solid in your own home.
If you want to get ultra-strategic about your time in the store, then surf Ikea?s site to make a list of must-see items. That way, you won?t waste time double-checking bedstead measurements or making sure you didn?t miss the perfect side table.
2. Stick to solid wood, m...