Ikea
Discontinued: Early 1960s
Designed by Gillis Lundgren as IKEA's first flat-pack furniture piece. Born from necessity when Lundgren couldn't fit a table into his car. It is remembered for its leaf-inspired design. Though discontinued in the early 1960s, IKEA reissued it as LÖVBACKEN in 2013.
Discontinued: Mid-1950s
The classic wingback design, featured on IKEA's first proper catalog cover in 1951, blended traditional comfort with modernist simplicity. In 2013, IKEA reintroduced it as the STRANDMON chair.
Discontinued: 2023
Priced at just 36 SEK (about €3.50) in 1957, the BALJA Plant Stand was one of IKEA's early budget items. Known for its simple, functional design, it became an international success. The stand was relaunched in 2023 as KULTURSKOG with an added bookshelf.
Discontinued: Late 1970s
The TJAT Armchair was a transformable chair with components that could be rearranged to create a chaise lounge or daybed. The denim-like blue upholstery stood out in the playful 1970s design landscape.
Discontinued: Pre-2023
Designed by Karin Mobring, this stackable steel-tube stool epitomized 1970s functionalism. Its low cost and modularity made it a household staple. In 2023, the stool was reissued as DOMSTEN in vibrant colors.
Discontinued: Early 1980s)
Also designed by Karin Mobring, the NATURA Lounge Chair is known for its sleek wooden frame and cushioned seat. It is now a prized vintage find.
Discontinued: Pre-2023
Rutger Andersson's cactus-inspired coat stand became a 1970s icon. The distinctive, playful design reflected the era's experimental design approach. In 2023, it was re-released as BONDSKÄRET with improved stability and contemporary colors.
Discontinued: Pre-2023
Designed by Knut and Marianne Hagberg, these candle holders had polished metal finishes and were influenced by 1980s glamour. The sleek, minimalist design became a signature decorative piece. They came back in 2023 as a set of three holders.
Discontinued: Pre-2023
Designed by Sven Fristedt for the KLIPPAN sofa, this fabric's vibrant geometric patterns defined 1980s maximalism. The pattern was distinctive enough to grace IKEA's 1980 catalog cover.
Discontinued: 2014
The EXPEDIT Shelving Unit was a grid-like cube storage system that became a worldwide staple for apartments, especially among vinyl record collectors whose albums fit precisely in the square compartments. It was replaced in 2014 by the KALLAX system.
Discontinued: 2010
This desk was a favorite among computer users and DIY enthusiasts for its modular, adjustable design. The sturdy frame and simple aesthetic made it adaptable for home offices.
Discontinued: 2019
The JENNYLUND Chair was a staple of Scandinavian-inspired living rooms. It was loved for its rounded back and slip-cover versatility. Its compact size and classic design made it popular across multiple décor trends.
Discontinued: Mid-2000s
These glass vases, with their saturated colors and whimsical squiggle or scallop designs, surfed the early 2000s decorating trends. The name means "joke" in Swedish, reflecting their lighthearted, unconventional aesthetic.
Discontinued: 2019
Known for its compact size and curved arms, the TULLSTA armchair became a favorite for small-space dwellers. Its simple silhouette made it adaptable to various interior styles. Discontinued models frequently appear in DIY upholstery tutorials.
Discontinued: 2018
IKEA's brief venture into bicycle design featured a belt-driven commuter bike with compatible accessories. This aluminum-framed bicycle won a Red Dot Design Award but was recalled and discontinued in 2018 due to issues with the drive belt.