#ikea-strala

#ikea-strala

"As a perfectionist... I think there's something that I have to practice a lot, which is standing proud next to things that are imperfect, and loving them anyway."

I designed this bag in the same way I designed everything else, so largely based on right angles, but perhaps a little more emotionally, more personally. Designing a handbag is undoubtedly different to designing a Braun stereo system, but I applied the same principles. It had to be functional, visually durable, and very aesthetic. Less, but better.

Ferm Living's Bridge system is one part coat rack, one part display piece for your most-worn pieces. Built for versatility, the slim oak beams provide two tiers of storage space, whether you need room for hangers or just a place to hang your hat at the end of the day. It's nearly five feet high, meaning none of your beloved coats will sweep the floor. Its vertical branches would also make sense as a place to display fabrics or hang towels to dry.

It's been a particularly grueling winter, so naturally I can't stop fantasizing about spring. I've had enough of being holed up in my apartment all day; once the weather warms up, I'm practically going to live outside. The product geniuses at IKEA are clearly on a similar wavelength, because the iconic home retailer just launched two new limited-edition SOLVINDEN lamps that'll set the mood for outdoor hangs and make a style statement indoors in the meantime. Oh, and they're both under $20.

When designing a neutral space, you might initially assume you're working with a limited color palette. And while using a select group of more subdued hues might be the key to achieving that calming effect, it doesn't mean the room has to be boring or one-dimensional. That's where texture (think: the "70-20-10" rule) comes into play. Texture was a major part of Chloe Livington's design plan when mapping out her organic-modern Jersey City studio apartment.

Furniture is now understood as a core architectural component rather than a purely functional addition to a space. In 2026, instead of sharp, rigid forms, current design directions favor softer, organic silhouettes that promote comfort and visual calm. These shapes help create interiors that feel more balanced and human-centred, supporting everyday use while enhancing the emotional quality of the environment.