Posted by Frankie Lola
on September 09, 2025
IKEA Gustaf Westman collection
After what felt like forever, the IKEA x Gustaf Westman “Add A Playful Touch To Gatherings” collection has finally landed and yes, I’ve been counting down the days. As a huge fan of Westman’s chunky, curvy, joy-sparking designs, I was beyond excited to see how his playful aesthetic would translate to IKEA’s super-accessible price point.
Spoiler: it’s fun, bright, and charming… even if it’s not quite as bold as his signature pieces.
Where’s the Chunk?
Westman’s work is all about unapologetic playfulness... chunky curves, vibrant finishes, statement pieces that make you smile instantly. The IKEA collection catches that vibe here and there, but it’s a bit more restrained than usual. Think fun and bright, but not full on Westman chunky. Still, there are definitely some gems.
The Tea light Moment
Okay, can we just take a minute to appreciate the tealight holders? Instant classic. IKEA really gets tealights... Fun fact: they started out in Japan to keep tea warm under teapots, then became a European staple thanks to a Dutch company in the late 1800s. Tealights might have peaked a few years ago, but maybe this collab will make them cool again?!
The Meatball Platter Fun, Just Not Functional
The meatball platter is probably the piece everyone’s talking about, celebrating 40 years of IKEA’s iconic Swedish meatballs. While it’s undeniably charming and a fun conversation starter, let’s be real... am I realistically going to invite friends over for a dedicated meatball night? Probably not. It’s clever marketing, but not something I’d ever use.
Lola Store Faves
Some pieces feel more pared back, but a couple really stole my heart. The sculptural loop lamp is incredible. art that lights up your room, bold, glossy, and wonderfully surreal.
Then there’s the bright candle holder. Chunky, cartoony, and full of character, it instantly makes a table feel fun. These two pieces capture Westman’s playful magic perfectly and show why we love his style so much.
What I Wish It Had / Why It Had to Be Different
I’d love to see even more oversized silhouettes, candy coloured finishes, and bold statement pieces... The kind of pieces that really shake up a room without trying too hard. But I get it… IKEA can’t exactly replicate Westman’s main line without overshadowing his other work. Even in this pared back version, though, his playful magic still shines through, sprinkling a little Westman joy into any home.