Hasta La Ideas

While we all know IKEA, it’s rare that we actually get to hear from any of their designers. So we were excited to receive some extended Q&As with not one, but a half-dozen of the designers behind their forthcoming PS 2014 Collection.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to design for IKEA, or how these guys and gals arrived there, read on. (Please note that in the following interviews, the designers are apparently referring to the “Secretary” and the “Bureau” as if they are two different names for the same piece; it’s possible that was not worked out at press time.)

Designer:
David Wahl

Products:
– IKEA PS 2014 Pendant Lamp
– IKEA PS 2014 Work Station
– IKEA PS 2014 Plant Stand

What is your background as a designer?
I have been working for IKEA as an in house designer for 3.5 years. Previously I worked as an industrial designer in Stockholm, and before that I graduated from Beckmans College of Design in 2008. Now I am working as a designer for IKEA PDC in Shanghai.

How did you get to work with IKEA PS 2014?
I participated in the startup workshop together with the other designers in 2011.

In the process of co-creation, as with IKEA PS 2014, what are the challenges and what are the benefits with working like this?
It is fun and creative to meet other designers and see how they work and think. The difficulties are to continue working on the products after the workshop, when everyone is stationed at different locations around the world.

What is your personal experience of moving and living in small spaces?
My flat in Sweden is around 25 square meters; it takes a bit of extra effort to furnish in an efficient way. I use a projector for watching movies, instead of a TV. It is small and easy to move with you, and all you need at home is a white wall.

What was your design inspiration for IKEA PS 2014? What was it you wanted to achieve or complete with your design?
The inspiration for the Pendant lamp came from science fiction and video games. I also wanted the customer to be able to change the shape of the shade.

How does your design relate to “small space” or “on the move?”
I wanted the products to be small enough to fit my own apartment; by doing that I know that other people with limited space can use them as well.

How do you think that your products will be used by people?
I hope that people will find new ways of using the products, and that they will customize them to fit their personal style.

What are you most proud of, or like the most, with IKEA PS 2014?
The pendant lamp.

Is there anything from the collection you would like to get for yourself?
I like the open metal wardrobe.

What are you still waiting for to design?
A time machine.

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