How to shop Ikea — by interior designers

Shoppers assume, often perfectly correctly, that price is a reliable guide to good design. Pay more, get better. But Ikea, the self-professed home of democratic design, where white plates start at 50p (Oftast) and glasses at £1 for a pack of six (Reko), can be an exception to this rule. The mammoth global chain, known for its plain, inexpensive furniture, is generally adored by interiors professionals, who select from the range with expert eyes and customise their purchases for extra style points.

So if you are considering a visit to the Swedish superstore as it opens back up, what should you put in your bright blue Frakta bag? Here’s how the decorators and designers shop Ikea.

“I’m a fan of their bed linen, their faux