7 designer-approved IKEA finds for your living room

Whether you’re decorating your living room from scratch or simply looking to freshen it up with a few new pieces, it’s no secret that IKEA has a lot to offer for every taste and budget. But sifting through dozens of couches, chairs, rugs and tables to find the best living room pieces is no small feat. Fortunately, help is at hand from the professionals.

We asked two interior designers to weigh in on their favorite IKEA living room pieces – see their top picks below.

Soderhamn Sofa

IKEA offers customers a range of sectional sofas, but designers can’t pass up the Soderhamn sofa, says Andrea Pellerin, founder and lead designer at Studio ACP.

Pellerin is particularly partial to the open-ended version for its flexibility.

“I love the range of seating positions it offers. It works just as well against a wall as it does in the center of a room,” says Pellerin.

But there is more. Soderhamn comes in a variety of colors including a neutral beige tone and some beautiful dark green and blue hues. Pellerin explains how its timeless design will complement a wide range of interior styles.

Advice

If you like patterned covers or textured fabrics (or colors not offered at IKEA), there are several companies that produce a wide variety of covers for the Soderhamn sofa, allowing you to personalize it to your taste.

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Lommarp TV unit

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While IKEA may be better known for its Scandi-chic aesthetic, there are hidden gems in its catalog that work in more classic settings. The Lommarp TV unit is one piece that Kristin Kristensen, owner and lead designer at Mod-Earth Studio, favors for this reason.

“The Lommarp unit has a more traditional look with its warm, earthy tones, natural textures and subtle vintage-inspired details,” explains Christensen.

While looks are important, this piece also offers plenty of functionality. It’s perfect for displaying plants and personal treasures and will effortlessly blend functionality with style, says Christensen.

Dyvlinga swivel chair

A design classic that first debuted in 1967, the Dyvlinga swivel chair is back with an updated look and pros can’t get enough of it. Pellerin describes it as an exceptional piece, especially if you opt for the green fabric.

“The fresh, bold color gives it a twist, making it a true designer piece that stands out in any living room,” says Pellerin.

And the chair, with its thick cushioned seat and slightly inclined backrest, is also very comfortable to sit on.

Bronden Rugg

Rugs are a living room staple and while IKEA has plenty to choose from, it’s the Bronden rug that stands out for Christensen for its timeless appeal and versatile design.

“Whether you’re looking to define a seating area or add warmth to hardwood floors, this IKEA wool rug is a smart investment that offers aesthetic and functional benefits for years to come,” adds Christensen.

IKEA

Holmerud side table

IKEA’s Holmerud side table offers functionality and elegant looks at an incredible price, so designers can’t pass up this piece.

Pellerin especially appreciates the smart size, which means this piece can work alone or in more than two or more, making it perfectly adaptable to any living room, small or large.

“It fits perfectly against a wall or under a row of windows, but I especially like to use it as a structural element behind a sofa to subtly separate two areas within a room,” says Pellerin.

Advice

Holmerud tables can be used in countless ways in any room of the home. Line a few up to create a stylish media unit, or put one or two in the entryway instead of a console. Got a small room? Arrange L-shaped tables to fit your space.

Havberg swivel chair

The Havberg swivel chair may fall under the radar of IKEA shoppers, but not of professionals. Christensen describes this chair as an excellent choice for any living room because it is elegant and comfortable.

According to Christensen, the chair is also a practical purchase thanks to its cotton and polyester blend, which will offer a soft, breathable texture that’s durable and easy to clean. The swivel feature will also add versatility, allowing you to move around easily and comfortably without having to move or rearrange furniture, says Christensen.

Ivar wall cabinet

IKEA’s Ivar cabinet needs no introduction. This piece is loved by customers and designers alike. Besides the cheap price, Pellerin likes how customizable the IVAR is.

“You can easily paint it, add handles or attach legs to create different heights,” says Pellerin. “The final look of this piece is almost limitless.”

IVAR does not disappoint in adaptability either.

“It works just as well on the floor as it does on the wall, and for me the modularity of this product makes it a really successful design,” says Pellerin.

Advice

Love Ivar but not a DIY fan? Fortunately, there are retailers who make custom legs, handles and doors especially for Ivar. With or without DIY, Ivar is endlessly transformable into something unique for your home.

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