In the late 1800s, the artists Carl and Karin Larsson combined classical influences with warmer Swedish folk styles. They created a model of Swedish home furnishing design that today enjoys world-wide renown. In the 1950s, the styles of modernism and functionalism developed at the same time as Sweden established a society founded on social equality. The IKEA product range - modern but not trendy, functional yet attractive, human-centred and child-friendly - carries on these various Swedish home furnishing traditions.

Many people associate Sweden with a fresh, healthy way of life. This Swedish lifestyle is reflected in the IKEA product range. The freshness of the open air is reflected in the colours and materials used and the sense of space they create: blond woods, natural textiles and untreated surfaces. In a climate that is cold and dark for most part of the year, these light, bright living spaces create the sensation of summer sunshine indoors all year round.

The IKEA concept, like its founder, was born in Smaland. This is a part of southern Sweden where the soil is thin and poor. The people are famous for working hard, living on small means and using their heads to make the best possible use of the limited resources they have. This way of doing things is at the heart of the IKEA approach to keeping prices low.

But quality is not compromised for the sake of cost. Sweden has an international reputation for safety and quality you can rely on, and IKEA retailers take pride in offering the right quality in all situations.

IKEA was founded when Sweden was fast becoming an example of the caring society, where rich and poor alike were well looked after. This is also a theme that fits well with the IKEA vision. The product range is child-friendly and covers the needs of the whole family, young and old. In order to achieve our goal, IKEA asks the customer to work as a partner, so that together we can create a better life for everyone, everywhere, every day.