I've moved house a few times, but I've realized that no matter how many times you do it, there's always something your new place is missing. I came to this revelation after recently moving into my latest rental this weekend. As soon as I'd unpacked and decided on the general layout of the rooms, I knew there was more I could do to make this rental feel more like home. So, like all renters on a mission to make their spaces feel more like theirs, I headed to IKEA.
From retro geometric prints and bold color palettes to classic Scandi pieces and farmhouse-inspired decor, IKEA is a playground for fun yet classic pieces that all come with an affordable price tag. Unsurprisingly, like any shopper who ventures to IKEA, I took my time wandering around the store, and by the end of the trip, I had a cart full of goods.
I wasn't on the hunt for the big pieces, or really the overly practical pieces, I wanted those missing pieces that will make my new space feel a bit more like me. Here's what I picked up to inspire your next IKEA trip (and these all work to add some style and comfort to your home if you aren't renting too).
When it comes to home decor shopping, one of my favorite things to buy is lighting. There was an impressive array in IKEA, but this mustard yellow table lamp was calling my name as soon as I entered the lighting section. Wrapped in a chic textile, it's a simple yet cool accessory that'll bring life to any room it's placed in.
On a mission to make my living room feel warmer, I headed to the rug department to check out the many plush piles. I stumbled across the BLÅLJUS rug and was impressed by its high-end feel. I knew I had to have it. It feels like a real mid-century gem with its geometric pattern and subdued color palette.
Desperate to cheer up my kitchen shelving, I picked up four of the PELARKAKTUS bowls. Finished in a dark green luster, they feel surprisingly expensive and artisanal, perfect for adding some color to my cooking space. I love their wide shape too, falling somewhere between a bowl and a plate.
My kitchen lighting is a little stark, so I was on a mission to find a chic portable lamp to add a softer glow. I instantly added the TVÅMASTAD LED portable lamp to my basket when I saw it. With its gold base and frosted glass shade, it's a classic style that's guaranteed to create a subtle touch of grandeur.
My new home didn't come with any curtains, but luckily for me, IKEA offers an impressive range of drapes and blinds in so many colors and styles. After perusing the many choices, I knew I wouldn't regret the RINGBLOMMA Roman blind. It's a timeless choice that has a real farmhouse feel, perfect for making my rooms feel cozier.
With an enamel finish and fluted neck, the SOCKERÄRT vase is oh-so charming, reminiscent of vintage designs. I purchased two of these, one to place on a stack of books on my coffee table, and the other I envisioned for my desk, perfect for filling with some vibrant stems.
I'm usually a lover of vintage furniture, but when I sat on the FRYKSÅS armchair, I instantly envisioned it in my living room underneath my bookshelves, paired with a floor lamp. With a curved back and sturdy rattan frame, it's the perfect armchair that won't take up too much room but still feels comfortable.
Part of IKEA's fall collection 2025, the HÖSTAGILLE pie plate is the ultimate farmhouse piece that I know will give my kitchen a country, cozy feel. With its scalloped border and cream finish, it feels like a vintage staple that's bound to elevate my table when I host get-togethers.
IKEA has plenty of high-quality, affordable bedding. As a lover of pinstripe, the BERGPALM set caught my eye pretty quickly. There were a few colorways to choose from, but the pale blue was an instant hit; I imagined it in my bedroom with a fluffy knitted throw and some yellow cushions.
I couldn't be happier with my new purchases. They'll make all the difference to my new home, I haven't had to break the bank and I know these pieces will last. If you're thinking of heading to IKEA, our interior editor's guide to shopping at IKEA will make the sometimes overwhelming venture of home decor hunting far easier and more inspiring.
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