Ikea classic: Impala armchair achieves record prices – looking for a bargain?

Ikea classic: Impala armchair achieves record prices – looking for a bargain?

The desire for timelessly beautiful design has led many people not only to use Ikea furniture, but also to collect it. A particularly prominent example of this is the Impala armchair, designed by Gillis Lundgren in 1972. Today it is offered in a double pack at prices of up to 6,430 euros, whereas in 1972 it only cost around 75 euros. This price increase is part of a trend that has reassessed the value of Ikea classics in recent years. Collectors are increasingly asking themselves about their financial options, especially for pieces of furniture from the mid-century era.

Contrary to the doubts of Ikea founder Ingvar Kamprad, the Impala armchair turned out to be a real bestseller. In a curious competition, Kamprad bet a bottle of whiskey that the chair wouldn't sell - a bet he ultimately lost. The origin of the name “Impala” also remains a mystery; it is believed that it refers to the Chevrolet Impala car model, which was popular at the time.

Valuable vintage style

Another notable piece is the “Guide” shelf, designed by Niels Gammelgaard in 1985. It originally cost 65 euros and was presented in the catalog together with the “Moment” sofa. Today the shelf can be purchased for an impressive 1,300 euros. With its wire sides and colored shelf edges, it harmonizes perfectly with the urban furnishing style of the 1980s as well as modern interiors in 2023.

The shelf measures 170 cm in height and has shelves with a length of 170 cm. The automated production of laminate panels at the time made it possible to make regular color changes without additional costs. This innovative technology ensures that the shelves are reversible; one side is white, the other anthracite gray, while the edges are decorated with bold colors such as red, blue, yellow and green.

Collectibles from Ikea

Interest in vintage Ikea furniture has grown in recent years. The design classics that were once considered simple furnishings have now become very important. It's not just the nostalgic value that attracts people, but also the opportunity to invest in high-quality designer furniture. The demand for these pieces shows that Ikea classics are much more than just practical furniture - they have become real collector's items.

How Ruhr News and AD Magazine report, this trend is expected to continue in the future as more and more people discover the value and beauty of these timeless design pieces.