IKEA Has a New Collection of Décor and Homewares Handmade by Global Artisans

June 4, 2021

When IKEA revealed its stunning April collection earlier this month, we made the daring call to say it was IKEA’s best range yet. Already, we’re eating our words. Because the new Lokalt collection announced today goes above and beyond in more ways than one.

Not just a stylish, convenient, versatile, and affordable brand, IKEA is also a conscious one. The furniture giant has commendable sustainability goals and it’s of equal importance to the company to do good by the world’s population. And this extends to the craftspeople it works with.

More and more, IKEA has been employing global artisans for its newer ranges since 2013. Woven baskets, embroidered cushions, clay pieces; instead of these pieces being produced by factory machines, IKEA has employed a number of skilled makers who’re bringing ancient methods and traditional practices to the pieces we’re now able to buy in stores.

The latest Lokalt collection is a celebration of that. “IKEA reached out to local designers in Jordan, Thailand and India, and together with social enterprises created Lokalt — a modern take on traditional handicraft inspired by local traditions,” IKEA says in a release.

Lokalt is the result of a collaboration with contemporary local designers from Amman, Delhi, Bangkok and an IKEA in-house designer. The vibrant collection features handmade ceramics and textiles produced by social entrepreneurs, ultimately creating long-term job opportunities and supporting the livelihood of vulnerable groups. So far, over 30,000 jobs have been created globally among disadvantaged communities.

IKEA says every cushion, rug, basket and bowl helps create equality, inclusion
and livelihoods in regions where it’s most needed. “Lokalt is a collection with modern and expressive take on traditional handicraft. It’s full of quirky details that tell stories from the places where the products are actually made,” said Maria O’Brian, Creative leader at IKEA Range and Supply, in a release.

“The ceramics are giving a tribute to the Thai way to serve food, there are glimpses of everyday life in Amman in the home textiles and expressive shapes inspired by the Indian heritage in cushion cover and rugs.”

Lokalt will launch in 26 IKEA markets throughout June 2021. In Australia, it will be
available in limited quantities in IKEA Tempe, Springvale and Logan.

Below are the items we can’t wait to bring to our homes.