The Strange Evolution of IKEA's Design

For most people, IKEA is synonymous with flat-pack furniture, particle board, and first apartments. But IKEA wasn't always like this! The new 2026 PS Collection is out and I immediately had to dig deeper and connect the dots. Has IKEA lost its way, or is it simply evolving once again? In this video I am going to explore with all of you the strange evolution of IKEA. From its beginnings as a Swedish mail-order company to becoming the world's largest furniture retailer. Along the way, we'll look at collectible vintage IKEA pieces, experimental designs, the rise of iconic products like KALLAX and MALM, and how the brand became both a design icon and a symbol of disposable furniture. We'll also examine why some vintage IKEA furniture is now selling for hundreds, or even thousands of dollars, and whether IKEA is returning to its design roots in 2026.w TIMESTAMPS 0:00 - Intro (What's Happened) 0:36 - The Story Of IKEA (How it All Started) 1:47 - IKEA's Golden Years 1970s-1990s 3:42 - The Flat-Pack Empire 1990s-2000s 6:40 - IKEA's Controversial Changes 9:12 - Rare Vintage Furniture 12:58 - Summary of Evolution (Closing Thoughts) 13:55 - End Reach out! Website: newinsideart.com All Socials ‪@newinsideart‬