Quote:
Originally Posted by jayswin
My theory is that the type of people that buy ikea stuff and put it together don't build or put anything else together in their lives. They like the store and the idea of their reasonably priced furniture, but taking something unbuilt and putting it together is their wild side, a true adventure from the norm.
|
That's not a crazy theory and I'm sure it's accurate in a lot of cases.
I'm a big defender of Ikea stuff, though. Sometimes it's just really good and better than what else is out there. Is it solid wood? No, but the problem when you go with high-end solid stuff is that it actually gets kind of dated. There is something to be said for BIFL (buy it for life) and paying for quality, etc., but I've learned I'm not wired to like one style of anything forever - particularly when it comes to furniture. It's nice to be able to affordably change things out. You do need some quality pieces to anchor your rooms as you don't want to look like an IKEA showroom, but they have such cool stuff.
IKEA offers killer value on so many things. Where they suck balls (IMO) is their fabric furniture (couches, etc.), office chairs suck, art is basic and terrible, mattresses are the worst and for sure some other things. Their bedroom furniture is very good IMO.
Another great thing is people are familiar with the names of their stuff so when you're done with it it's easy to sell. I could have a $5k solid wood bed from Bracko Brothers that I'd be hard pressed to get $100 for after a few years because nobody is seeking out some weird Amish brand of high-quality furniture on Kijiji. A Hemnes Daybed, though? that'll sell on Kijiji all day long for 50% of what I paid 10 years later. The resale value is weirdly good.
Also love their kitchens. I'm so happy with my IKEA kitchen. It's been over seven years and still looks great.