SWEDEN - Ikea is developing multifunctional furniture designed to transform from one function to another to adapt to changing needs throughout the day and night.

Some of the solutions are planned to be sales started on a small scale during 2023 in two Ikea markets.

As urbanisation is increasing, living space is shrinking. Yet the human needs remain the same – everyone needs a place to sleep, eat, cook, relax, entertain, and even more so now, the home has also become a place to work.

Research from Ikea shows the increasing need for solutions allowing flexible use of space, where a room or even a piece of furniture can be used for different activities to help make the most of limited living spaces.

To respond to these needs, Ikea is exploring and developing multifunctional furniture that is transformable and adaptable to suit different activities and moods throughout the day using the same space. The essential feature of these solutions is their versatility. These solutions will also help to make room for both togetherness and privacy. People living in small spaces often have to compromise on sleep and privacy, which are closely connected to their well-being.