When IKEA Meets Gustaf Westman: A Match Made in Design Heaven
Every once in a while, a collaboration comes along that feels like it was simply meant to be. The iconic Swedish furniture giant IKEA has teamed up with Stockholm-based designer Gustaf Westman, and the result? A joyful collision of minimalism and maximalism.
Known for his curvy, candy-toned creations that blend art with function, Westman brings his signature playfulness to IKEA’s annual Christmas lineup — the Vinterfint and Stråla collections. The range includes 12 festive-ready pieces, from pastel-toned lamps to meatball trays that have the internet buzzing.
“IKEA has shaped so many Swedish people’s lives,” says Westman. “So, to bring my own touch to such an iconic brand felt special.”
Bold, Bright, and a Little Bit Bonkers The Colour Story
Westman’s world is drenched in soft pinks, dreamy blues, and cheerful greens and this collaboration is no exception.
“The green and red evoke Christmas, but the blue and pink are very me,” he shares. “Pink is my favourite colour!”
Initially, every piece was tested in all four hues. But after endless sampling, Westman landed on a palette that feels both Scandi-festive and effortlessly chic — think warm tones with a twist of nostalgia.
The Viral Meatball Tray And Why It Only Fits 11
Yes, you read that right. The star of the collection — a sleek white tray designed to hold IKEA’s world-famous meatballs — fits exactly 11 pieces.
“The technical reason? It just worked best with the mould,” laughs Westman. “But honestly, I like to think it’s because someone’s already snuck one before serving!”
The playful design instantly became an online sensation, perfectly capturing Westman’s balance of humour, function, and design storytelling.
Childhood Memories, Now in Design Form
Many of Westman’s pieces in the collection draw inspiration from his childhood in Sweden, where winter nights were long and cozy rituals reigned supreme.
Take the pink LED lamp with a 360° hinge a fan favourite.
“It’s like a cross between a lantern and a flashlight,” says Westman. “During winter, when it gets dark early, we’d carry small lamps outside. I wanted to recreate that feeling something portable, playful, and warm.”
The result is a charming, sculptural piece that doubles as décor and lighting — perfect for your side table or balcony nights.
Tea Time, But Make It Gustaf
Another conversation-starter from the collection? The oversized saucer and mini cup set. The inverted ratio wasn’t a mistake it’s rooted in Westman’s family tradition.
“My grandmother always served tea with cookies,” he recalls. “But the saucers were too small. I wanted mine to have space for three or four cookies so you can dip and snack in peace!”
It’s design with sentiment a blend of functionality and nostalgia, just as IKEA intended.
Hosting Goals: Plates That Start Conversations
When asked which piece he’d show off at a dinner party, Westman doesn’t hesitate.
“Definitely the plates. They’re the most sophisticated and versatile pieces something people will keep for a long time.”
Whether you’re serving holiday roast or weekday pasta, these plates are built to make your tablescape pop without overpowering it.
Design Tips from Gustaf Westman Himself
Beyond this collab, Westman’s fans adore his interior chaos aesthetic — where nothing matches, yet everything somehow works. His biggest tip?
“Don’t worry about matching sets. Buy what makes you happy. The randomness brings life to your space.”
He believes a home should feel personal, not showroom-perfect. “I love organised chaos. Mix things that make you smile that’s how your space tells your story.”
And when it comes to design “rules”? Westman breaks them literally.
“I don’t really believe in feng shui,” he laughs. “If I like something, I’ll put it anywhere. I have mirrors everywhere even in my bedroom!”
