IKEA is kind of like a Disneyland for furniture shoppers. The first time I went, it was so crowded and visually stimulating I left with a headache. And just like the Magic Kingdom, there are disappointments. (When it comes to the upholstered pieces, you get what you pay for). But I've learned to love shopping there, because there are areas where IKEA excels, in terms of design quality, selection and pricing. And let’s face it—it can be exhilarating walking out with a cartful of merchandise for the price of a few CDs.
If there isn’t an IKEA store near you, you can shop online (www.ikea.com) or order by phone, (800) 434-IKEA.
Here’s my rundown of IKEA’s greatest hits:
Lighting: You just can’t beat IKEA when it comes to prices and selection in lighting. Their floor lamps, pendant lights, desk lamps, sconces and track lighting are outstanding and of very high quality, and the prices are so low you can afford to try something a little different. The only area where they don’t excel is table lamps: The designs are kind of clunky and the quality is not as impressive. Otherwise, this is one area where IKEA shines.
Picture frames: Let’s face it—frames can get expensive, often costing more than the art that’s inside of them. But if your art is fairly standard in size you can save a lot with IKEA’s frames. They look great and the prices can’t be beat. I have some prints mounted in a trio of $20 IKEA frames in my bedroom, and they’ve gotten more praise than artworks costing 50 times as much.
Kitchen cabinets: IKEA cabinets are one of the best-kept secrets for designers on a budget. Their contemporary cabinets, in particular, can look like fancy-label imports costing thousands more. The same holds true for some of their closet and wardrobe systems—more than once I’ve seen them in a home and mistaken them for high-ticket designs.
Accessories: When it comes to things like candles, kitchen gadgets and storage organizers, IKEA can’t be beat!
If there isn’t an IKEA store near you, you can shop online (www.ikea.com) or order by phone, (800) 434-IKEA.
Here’s my rundown of IKEA’s greatest hits:
Lighting: You just can’t beat IKEA when it comes to prices and selection in lighting. Their floor lamps, pendant lights, desk lamps, sconces and track lighting are outstanding and of very high quality, and the prices are so low you can afford to try something a little different. The only area where they don’t excel is table lamps: The designs are kind of clunky and the quality is not as impressive. Otherwise, this is one area where IKEA shines.
Picture frames: Let’s face it—frames can get expensive, often costing more than the art that’s inside of them. But if your art is fairly standard in size you can save a lot with IKEA’s frames. They look great and the prices can’t be beat. I have some prints mounted in a trio of $20 IKEA frames in my bedroom, and they’ve gotten more praise than artworks costing 50 times as much.
Kitchen cabinets: IKEA cabinets are one of the best-kept secrets for designers on a budget. Their contemporary cabinets, in particular, can look like fancy-label imports costing thousands more. The same holds true for some of their closet and wardrobe systems—more than once I’ve seen them in a home and mistaken them for high-ticket designs.
Accessories: When it comes to things like candles, kitchen gadgets and storage organizers, IKEA can’t be beat!
