Hope you like this video! It's worth noting that some of these IKEA Don'ts could be great DIY projects for some of you! So in making this list I just took the items as they are and ignored their DIY potential though I'm sure some of you have come up with some great hacks!
Hi Nick, love your channel. I really like the woven pendants you recommended. I have two dining areas in my house that need pendants over tables. Should I pick two woven pendants but different style, size, etc., or should I go for something that is not woven for second dining room? In other words, would two woven pendants be too much? My design style is BOHO, Scandi, Mid Century.
I was a 18 year old student in Leiden with the paper lantern and the lack table(S!); now 20 years on, I still have them! And it's ok cos I'd rather spend money on other items anyways.
Lol...I mean, Lack is what it is. If your budget is really tight, Lack is a godsend. The shelves are rather stylish because of the hidden mounting hardware, but the tables are really just simple utilitarian pieces. I think they're popular because they're so affordable, not because of how they look.
@@janapapp8529 I'm almost forty and currently use a 60cm x 60 cm lack table as coffee table. When I bought it almost 20 years ago it had a completly different purpose (tv-stand). It's not a design statement but it doesn't disturb the look to much. I'll probably switch it for something more sophisticated this year because it is to small.
The Poang chair deserves a place in MOMA if it isn’t already there. It is a classic and the most comfortable chair ever. Mine is beautiful ivory leather. Love it.
If people new it’s place it in a Nordic design tradition, maybe they would see something more in it? It really is a classic, rather than “been there, done that, got the t-shirt”.
As a Swede, the way everyone but swedes pronounce the names, is Magic! Not even close to how it is pronounced in Swedish. And therefore - LOVELY. Not that i hate my language - i love Swedish. But i also really love hearing foreign takes on how it might be pronounced. Or is it the covid boredom that just makes me love everything that might remind me of travelling and meeting new People? 🙈
Wooden countertop: amazingly beautiful. But, and I say it from personal experience, after installing it, immediately give it at least 3 coats of water-resistant varnish. The countertop instructions says nothing about you having to finish it because it already has some kind of finishing, but the finishing definitely can't handle everyday chores, especially dishwashing. I coated my wooden countertop about a year after start using it, and, even though there's no irreversible water damage, I regret not doing it before.
I absolutely love the poäng! maybe it's just because I'm Finnish, but it has such a strong Alvar Aalto and Artek vibes, very minimalist and scandi. And it's so easy to style!
This! :D I love Aalto, and would say that there is also (maybe to a somewhat lesser degree) a line to Bruno Mathson’s chairs, and to the Lamino chair as well. A Nordic, bentwood tradition.
The Poäng is so extremly comfortable. The first thing in sitting opurtunities I am looking for is, what it does to my back pain. And that had so much pain relief. So we bought it (and my grandma really wished one, too. Same reason. So we got her one) My two one year olds love this thing. they use it as a trampoline. So its a win for us. Not the prettiest, I give you that. But oh so comfy
OMG! Finally someone who is against the Lack table as I am! I had it twice! (Second time was NOT by choice - thanks mom!) and I hate it! It gets dirty and accumulates dust far too easy! And it is so basic in look!!
@@sl3772 oh I totally cringe at it now 😆 especially considering I ended up flipping houses for 15 years and so I learned a lot more about design (I hope I did, anyway 🙈). But to be doubly fair, I was on the front end of the Audrey canvas trend curve. 😂 okay now I’m just deluding myself...
I strongly believe people who justify fake plants (that even cost more than real ones! and they don't even improve your indoor climate) are lizard people. I had daylong discussions with people who are buying fake plants and it is like talking to a wall 😂 so real plants for the win 🌱🌱
@@floppsymoppsy5969 hahah. I dont think english sounds funny, british english sounds so much funnier. But i think the reason for english speakers sounding so funny speaking swedish and other languages like spanish for example, is how you pronounce the R. In swedish and just most other language, the R is hard. Its like in russian or spanish R. English R is very soft. Also the melody of your language is very different. But im not judging. Swedish people sound funny speaking english too gahag
The reason the Poang chair is so popular for so long is that it looks good AND is very comfortable. The rattan chairs that you prefer (because your bored with Poang) are very uncomfortable.
I still have it in my room from 2011. I loved the style and the subject matter and I very rarely feel that I have to have something to myself when I see art - this one was instant love when I saw it. It might be mass produced, it might have been everywhere and people might hate it or think it's unoriginal or tacky but for me there was a personal connection, and that's enough to keep it.
Love the Poang. The curve of that means I can sit in it for hours without my back hurting. Have leather cushions, so it's not the cheap look of some versions. You can also get custom covers in a variety of colors from Etsy stores. Yes, it will look like a Poang, but I like that.
Yeah this was the hardest pick to wrestle with because as I say in the video, it's actually a great chair at a great price! It's just been a victim of it's own success in my view!
@@Nick_Lewis I may be wrong but wasn’t the Poäng intended as a budget version of the midcentury Carl Malmsten chair in similar form, but which was way out of budget for most people? I sort of like it, but it doesn’t suit my style
We have a Poäng chair since at least the 2000's. Or at least one that looked like the poang chair. Then it was made of (it looks like) black leather or another type of easy wipe of material. And it had a little more dimension. Thicker cusion. It is so comfortabel, its my dads favourite chair.
@@Nick_Lewis the ex literally lied to me about what Hogwarts house he is in. I mean, a fictional book with a fictional classification system and he lied about it. Yes, he was actually a slytherin, I kid you not.
@@KM-se4vh Everyone knows the cooler people go to Ravenclaw but I wouldn't lie about my Hogwarts House, even if I were a Slytherin. Totally valid reason for a break up.
I was part of IKEA back in the late 80"s and helped with launching stores here in the UK. The Lack table is a design masterpiece and I've seen them stacked to create a unique shelving system.
Ooof this one hurt lol (quietly shoves Poang chair, paper lantern, faux plants and artwork into the closet 😬). In all seriousness, this is a great vid Nick, I’m really enjoying your content and look forward to more! You’re quick to the point and always come across as sweet and not snarky.
Yep, I have the same 4 things as you! Poang has just been dismantled and stored in the loft, to be brought out if we ever have family staying over again and need extra proper seating. Paper lantern(s) not in main rooms and will be changed one day... I like my fake plants, but they're placed where no one can get close to feel them - no flowers either! Art work, well I only have one left and it will be changed eventually. 😁
I too have a Poang, artwork, and fake plants, and I don't really intend to get rid of them any time soon--they suit me and my family's needs! Our LACK side/coffee tables, however, were purchased in the "this is why we can't have nice things" phase of our lives, and now that our youngest is 5 we're starting to slowly upgrade all our furniture from LACK to HEMNES. I just didn't want all that really nice, expensive (for IKEA) furniture sitting around where a toddler could ruin it... oof
@@analogwatch Similar situation here: for my crazy cats these items work for my family. I'd rather invest in other items, personalize things around the house, know that if things get damaged, it's ok cos they did not cost much.
Never having lived in a town where there was an IKEA, but recently finding that they deliver for cheap in my area, I've started looking at their products to help furnish/decorate our new house. Thank you so much for this video and helping me to know the Dos and Don'ts! :)
So, in defense of fake plants: I have cats so I can’t keep real poinsettia (Christmas plant with big red flowers) - it’s toxic to cats and mine have to taste all plants. But I love the plant and I love how it adds to the Christmas decor. So this winter I bought a fake poinsettia from Ikea and believe me it duped quite a few of my friends! Worth every penny, it will for sure come out every holiday season :)
I think the fake plants can be hit or miss, my friend has some more unusually shaped ones that you definitely couldn't tell without properly inspecting.
Yes, I also have fake Christmas plants for this reason. I also have fake plants in the toilet and bathroom since it's just easier to not have to deal with live plants in those environments since that can quickly get icky. I don't expect anyone to mistake them for real plants, it's more about the general vibe. So I'm a fan of IKEA's fake hanging plants for this.
My sister lives in Barcelona and has real plants but fake grass. Grass just would not grow where it need to be. Looks great on zoom and the dog isn’t turned off by it. Thought it would be hot.
I randomly stumbled into this channel and I'm loving the realness and genuine honesty about the products. Its a bit of fresh air and I can't wait to binge more videos from you!
I really like this content, and I'd love to see more. Another series that I would love to see from you could be called, "So close, yet so far." You take a look at designs that clearly have a lot of thought and effort put into them but don't quite make the mark because of a few fatal (or trivial!) flaws. I would learn a lot from that.
Truth is the price is relevant in choosing these items and we'd probably spend more if we could afford it, but we still need something in the meantime.
You have just stated what I came for. I more and more feel that we should rejoyce over the neat and comfy things we are able to own. Paper vs rattan lantern/ or boredome vs excitement? You mean when we look at living in a space? All you need is air, light, water, electricity, temperature control-everything else is called luxury.
I agree about the marble. I live in Greece where the people see marble as a status symbol, no matter how cheap & ugly it is. The wood one I gorgeous and natural. One point I want to make with some of the cheap, boring pieces at IKEA is that you must remember, these basic pieces are great for those of us who can dress them up with paint techniques or decoupage. I just covered a plain wood table with a beautiful old Indian sari. Now it’s a piece that many comment on in my house. There is always reasons to buy or pick up pieces on the street! Always! Love your channel, thanks for your vids.
Okay, the "Grenodle" hurt so much 🙈🙈, I'm gonna teach y'all how to pronounce GRÖNADAL. First of all, the ö is pronounced like the u in "burn". And then it's "Gru" - "nah" - "dawl". Emphasis on the first syllable (and if you wanna be really fancy, throw in a rolled r like the one you hear in Spanish) . "Gröna" means green and "dal" means valley. Grönadal is the name of a Swedish village and pretty much the equivalent of English "Greendale". End of lecture. (Oh but also: Loved the video! )
I have tried to teach Americans how to pronounce IKEA numerous times but so far, not a single person has even attempted to do it right. My theory is that English speaking people are so privilaged they just don’t care. I wouldn’t expect anyone to be able to pronounce all the decor names but at least learn to say IKEA, lol. Cheers! :)
@@MarleneIsHungry Seeeeee, you confirm my theory since you speak Spanish as well :) It is the first letter everyone pronounce wrong. We pronounce i as ee. So to pronounce ot right, you should say eek-éa. Thank you for asking :)
I am almost finished decorating my long hallway - bought decor from Etsy, Walmart, Amazon, a thrift store, a museum gift shop, my Mum's hatband (she passed away in 2007) and my children's childhood artwork (they are now grown and flown) but alas, nothing from IKEA. It's very personal, unique, timeless and yet, IMHO, warm and welcoming, as it's the hallway from front door to my living/kitchen area. This video was helpful and helped me to see styles that are classic, timeless and yet, updated and unique.
Hi Nick! Your videos are really really helpful! I think after watching your series on the most popular styles I can tell them apart when I see the whole picture. However, I'm still confused sometimes when I see isolated objects (chairs, dishes, wall clocks etc.) as to which style they would fit in. Would love to see more videos comparing styles within one category of objects :) but then again, I greatly appreciate the content you already have!
I hate to tell you this Nick, but as a veteran IKEA Canada employee I can confirm that thousands of customers would disagree with you regarding the FEJKA plants. When they’re set in a plant pot and separate from being merchandised together, many people believe they’re real. Some oddly believe they’re real when grouped together on a shelf. I have both real and artificial in my home and nobody can tell the difference. I would love to send you photos and challenge you to spot the FEJKA!
I agree with most of this. However... I have the regolet, but I painted it (carefully because it's rice paper and disolves under wet paint) and then covered it with flowers that I made from coffee filters and had also painted. It looks amazing. The omnipresense of most of the generic IKEA stuff is super cringy, but... some of it just loans itself so well to customising. The problem is when people buy these items mindlessly to achieve a very blah look. Love your channel!
Because I live in a smaller metropolitan area, we only just got an IKEA a few years ago. Everything is still new for this area as we had to travel 6 hours to once visit one. Some of this design like the Poang chair is still novel and beautiful to me as marshmallow furniture has always been the cheap fall back with the socio-economic group I know. Just a theory
this guy has a very unique, humor and entertaining way in explaining things, especially pendant selection!!! just like trevor noah daily show! these people do have talent!!!
Nick: “in my opinion”, that is what we come here for- we value it! Just say it, no need to apologize. Speak with the authority that you own- we see it. Time for you to see it. Cheers! Cathy
Great video! I agree with you for most of it but not for Ribba and Regolit. Ribba used to be good but nowadays they dip it in so much flame retardant that it stinks up the whole room (at least here in Europe because of fire safety regulations), and sadly the smell never goes away. I don't care how cheap Regolit is, rice paper is a noble material and paper lamps are timeless classics. Check out Isamu Noguchi's Akari lamps for instance. Regolit works beautifully in any scandi or japandi interior and will never go out of style imo :)
Love the Poang... comfort and simplicity, it's my favorite reading chair. Also, like the laminate counter top for price and durability. My old butcherblock, yes, laminate countertops still strong after 30+ years. I'm with you on the pendants, the woven ones are beautiful.
I can see both sides of the coin on this one. If I looked at the chair without considering how over done it is, it's a really aesthetically pleasing chair. I think we just see it so much we can become "bored" of it for lack of a better term. But if you love it in your space, then its 100% the right chair. If something sparks joy for you it's the perfect thing. I have a few things around my place I'm sure people would hate on but I'm so happy in my space, who cares? 😄
@@sl3772 The Poang was the most controversial pick for sure - and I knew that going in. That's why I went thorough that at one point it was really interesting, but to me, it's a victim of its own success. It is comfy though! Oh and yes, if you love it - then awesome! Who cares what I think? 😂
I just bought my first poang yesterday!!! Have sat in it at the store many times but thought hmmm very plain. Finally bought it and now I see I am out of style!!! I love this chair but will be dressing it up somehow. Suggestions welcome!!!
The regolit pendant is great for a kids room. And one thing you can do that is super cool, you can spray it with paints in the color scheme and it makes super unique lighting.
“Maybe your pendant in your beautiful living room should cost more than a subway sandwich, that’s all I’m saying” 😂😂 I’m DEAD! He reaaaaaally doesn’t like the Regolit pendant. I discovered this channel today and I’m already 7 videos in. Love him! ❤️
Hey nick ! Growing up I wanted study interior designing and stuff because even though we are dirt poor I grew up and went ahead and saw/ read too many magazines and made up all kind of fantasies in my head. But unfortunately my parents would have never supported me in this field so I never told a soul that I wanted to this course which they thought was just very boujee and not realistic. Anyway I am writing this because when I saw you yesterday I found your videos so interesting and Honestly I could hear you talk for hours because I enjoy your insights so much and I kept wondering that I genuinely would have loved this if I did study. And you are so smart and I intelligent I envy you so much. I just wanted to thank you for making this videos I feel like I live through this. Thank you so much.
Hahaha I laughed really hard when you mentioned the paper pendant light and how it looks like a dorm room, because that's exactly what I had back in my uni days :D To my defence, I was very much into Japanese culture, so it complemented a lot of authentic east Asian pieces of decor and Japan-inspired DIYs that I had :) I submit that the square Lack table and the rectangular variant are very different, the latter tends to bend and warp in the middle very quickly (especially that bottom shelf), whereas with the square tables physics work in the construction's favour. It's no coincidence that square Lack tables are one of the most popular base for IKEA hackers. Loved the video and looking forward to sequels. If you ever have it in you to do something about beds and sofas I'd be most interested ;) All the best!
Your fashion is great but your humor is just the best!! Love all your videos! Ha! "Your pendent light should cost more than a Subway sandwich "! I'm still laughing
Hallelujah to the real plants over fake plants debate 🙌🏻 I personally fall into the “no fake plants, EVER” school of thought. If you’re tempted to do it because of poor natural lighting conditions or you just don’t want to care for something (hey, I get it, I used to travel a lot and was constantly out on the town in my 20s - wanted the least responsibility possible!), consider a beautiful dried arrangement. I recently bought a super cool 70s-vibe dried arrangement from a florist but you can easily make one yourself for much cheaper. Happy arranging! 🌸
"Maybe your pendant in your beautiful living room should cost more than a Subway sandwich. That's all I'm saying." This will be my new motto. This quote alone made me subscribe to your channel.
Love your comparison...very insightful & want to see more. Also, I couldn't help but laugh at your wonderful honesty. We all have thought the same thing as you but just didn't say it out loud like you. I so connect with you on every level!! More please!!
I’d love to see the same with Target or West Elm or just any other store!! I’m trying to find my style that isn’t college dorm as I’m now finished with that time in my life 😂
Just found your channel and love all your videos. You give out a lot of helpful information and make interior design seems effortless. You don’t make us stick to one style or one particular furniture, a lot of good examples and ideas, give us a lot of options. Thank you so much!!
I bought the white paper ball pendant and placed it instead of a more expensive one. I use that light in the evening while playing, watching something etc and it is perfect because its surface is solid, there are no those irritating little rays of light. I will change it when I find another good non-heavy pendant with soft light and no visible bulb, but it works fine for now.
I am an aspiring interior designer and oh boy, I value your channel a lot. So much helpful info and easy to understand explanations (English is not my first language and no, you don't speak too fast ;) ). I follow or followed multiple designers and despite the fact that they have more subscribers (for now!) you are just the best. So please, keep doing what you doing because it's great. One thing I would change though is more frequent videos! ;)
MORE, YES PLEASE! I took a few screenshots so I can find the pieces you just made me fall in love with. Thank you! Can't wait till you make another one...
4:09 As a Swede I'm having fun trying to guess what the actual names are on the Ikea products you are talking about by just listening to how you pronounce it and not looking at the names. SVENBERTIL aka "SWENTERBILL" as you pronunced it was the best one yet, you even moved aroud the letters. It's a swedish male name Sven-Bertil, a double name made of to swedish male names Sven and Bertil. We have a Swedish singer/actor who's name is Sven-Bertil Taube, son of Evert Taube who was a Swedish author, artist, composer and singer. Evert Taube is widely regarded as one of Sweden's most respected musicians and the foremost troubadour of the Swedish ballad tradition in the 20th century.
Totally, if you're looking for real plants with pets, check out prayer plants and calatheas. Pretty big variety. And palms. You can google basically any plant to find out. My one cat chews on my plants so I always have to research it.
@@sl3772 Palms, while gorgeous, might result in chewed up leaves if you've got cats, heh. My palms were suffering big time (until I gave them away to my parents to nurse them back to health), so nowadays I mostly only go for cacti... At least my cat doesn't chew those up. T_T
Absolutely, please, some more of these. Would love to see you compare high end furniture stores -- you would have a hilarious take on Restoration Hardware, I'll just bet? Thanks for all your hard work, Nick, LOVE your videos!
Great idea for a video, Nick! All things at Ikea are not created equally great so this is really helpful, especially for those of us who are doing most of our Ikea shopping online these days and aren't able to view items in person.
First time seeing one of your videos. I enjoyed it. I will give a small shout out for the Lack side tables though. My mother is elderly and her old coffee table was large heavy and had glass inserts. It was difficult to move. My step Dad, also elderly fell onto it and luckily the glass insert that broke did not cut him. She needed something smaller and lighter and easier to move. 2 Lack side tables give her everything she needs. Function, light weight, no glass hazard, she can move them around as needed.
Man!! I sadly put in the fake marble a few months ago. Only on the new cabinet area. I have a butcher block island top...so....I will change it all to oak vaneer. Just started watching your channel. Love it!
Hope you like this video! It's worth noting that some of these IKEA Don'ts could be great DIY projects for some of you! So in making this list I just took the items as they are and ignored their DIY potential though I'm sure some of you have come up with some great hacks!
Oh yes, please do more of these. including talking points on durability 🤔 maybe
This video was awesome, I need more of them! 😁❤️
Surely this is personal taste, and why is your taste better than anyone else?
I once used a fake ivy wreath from IKEA to make a Poison Ivy costume, does that count?! 😂
Hi Nick, love your channel. I really like the woven pendants you recommended. I have two dining areas in my house that need pendants over tables. Should I pick two woven pendants but different style, size, etc., or should I go for something that is not woven for second dining room? In other words, would two woven pendants be too much? My design style is BOHO, Scandi, Mid Century.
Me as a 20 y.o living in student housing in Amsterdam...
Slowly turns away from my instant soup to my lack table...
"Don't listen to him baby"
Jana Papp
I was a 18 year old student in Leiden with the paper lantern and the lack table(S!); now 20 years on, I still have them! And it's ok cos I'd rather spend money on other items anyways.
Lol...I mean, Lack is what it is. If your budget is really tight, Lack is a godsend. The shelves are rather stylish because of the hidden mounting hardware, but the tables are really just simple utilitarian pieces. I think they're popular because they're so affordable, not because of how they look.
Haha, honestly I got it for free from my dorm, and I needed a place to eat where I don't risk all my electronics. It is indeed a godsend.
@@janapapp8529 I'm almost forty and currently use a 60cm x 60 cm lack table as coffee table. When I bought it almost 20 years ago it had a completly different purpose (tv-stand). It's not a design statement but it doesn't disturb the look to much. I'll probably switch it for something more sophisticated this year because it is to small.
The Poang chair deserves a place in MOMA if it isn’t already there. It is a classic and the most comfortable chair ever. Mine is beautiful ivory leather. Love it.
If people new it’s place it in a Nordic design tradition, maybe they would see something more in it? It really is a classic, rather than “been there, done that, got the t-shirt”.
When he said "Maybe your pendant in your beautiful livingroom should cost more than a subway sandwich"...I died!! 💀😂🤣...FACTS.
I'm kind of that way with dining chairs, maybe not Ikea.
😆
Hilarious 😂
Hilarious!
So hilarious!
As a Swede, the way everyone but swedes pronounce the names, is Magic! Not even close to how it is pronounced in Swedish. And therefore - LOVELY. Not that i hate my language - i love Swedish. But i also really love hearing foreign takes on how it might be pronounced. Or is it the covid boredom that just makes me love everything that might remind me of travelling and meeting new People? 🙈
Lol, I am Swedish too and was looking for a pronunciation comment. Great content, adorable pronunciation!
The best part about IKEA is figuring out the names. I'm compelled to say them and if it doesn't sound good in my head I reconsider the item!
@Sofia Yes, and I think some language pronounce it even more wrong (english for example) than others (maybe german)..
It tingles differently when a non Swede says our words. :>
Yes please do more “buy this not that” with Target, Walmart, World Market, etc!
Yes!!
Yes please!
Yes!
agreed, although I don't know if Target is in Canada
Or maybe their online sites
Wooden countertop: amazingly beautiful. But, and I say it from personal experience, after installing it, immediately give it at least 3 coats of water-resistant varnish. The countertop instructions says nothing about you having to finish it because it already has some kind of finishing, but the finishing definitely can't handle everyday chores, especially dishwashing. I coated my wooden countertop about a year after start using it, and, even though there's no irreversible water damage, I regret not doing it before.
I absolutely love the poäng! maybe it's just because I'm Finnish, but it has such a strong Alvar Aalto and Artek vibes, very minimalist and scandi. And it's so easy to style!
This! :D I love Aalto, and would say that there is also (maybe to a somewhat lesser degree) a line to Bruno Mathson’s chairs, and to the Lamino chair as well. A Nordic, bentwood tradition.
Latvian here, I feel You. This chair is comfortable, too. All of us can not afford Eames lounge chair and ottoman from Herman Miller.
The Poäng is so extremly comfortable. The first thing in sitting opurtunities I am looking for is, what it does to my back pain. And that had so much pain relief. So we bought it (and my grandma really wished one, too. Same reason. So we got her one) My two one year olds love this thing. they use it as a trampoline. So its a win for us. Not the prettiest, I give you that. But oh so comfy
You can pretty-fy it - different cushions, covers, paint the wood a different color XD
"It's my channel, I can do what I want to". 🤣
Love this guy! Just found this channel a few days ago & binge-watched.... and now I'm hooked. ❤❤❤
This was a fun segment. You should do again
Same here
Literally exact same thing here
Yes lol! I’ve binge-watched SO MUCH. Love this channel.
@@Bezvlel Thanks everyone!
Noguchi was ok with rice paper lanterns. A timeless classic in true minimalist Japanese style :)
Love this format! Also a missed opportunity to say the Lack table LACKS something haha
It was RIGHT THERE.
Ba ha ha!
Lacklustre
OMG! Finally someone who is against the Lack table as I am! I had it twice! (Second time was NOT by choice - thanks mom!) and I hate it! It gets dirty and accumulates dust far too easy! And it is so basic in look!!
Totally agree with your Audrey Hepburn print comment😂😂😂
That print was in 65% of college dorm rooms I encountered
@@eudaimona I had it in university and I’m 44. So, more than 20 years ago 😆 in fairness, Breakfast at Tiffany’s has long been a favourite movie. 🥐
Right? I cringe. Whatever makes you happy I guess but I don't like it at alllll.
@@sl3772 oh I totally cringe at it now 😆 especially considering I ended up flipping houses for 15 years and so I learned a lot more about design (I hope I did, anyway 🙈). But to be doubly fair, I was on the front end of the Audrey canvas trend curve. 😂 okay now I’m just deluding myself...
Appropriate for people under the age of 14
The Poang chair will always make me think of university pub night:
If you couldn’t get out of the Poang, you weren’t sober enough to walk home.
Good advice for the students 😆
when you said to buy real houseplants you’ve solidified and justified my houseplant addiction 😭😭😩😫
Same here! 🙋♀️
Same
I strongly believe people who justify fake plants (that even cost more than real ones! and they don't even improve your indoor climate) are lizard people. I had daylong discussions with people who are buying fake plants and it is like talking to a wall 😂 so real plants for the win 🌱🌱
Clarissa Noah exactly 👁👁 anyone can keep a plant like a zz alive by watering it once every two weeks
@@coagulatedsalts4711 what kind of indoor plant do you recommend for south east asian?
As a swedish person the way you butcher these names is the best part of the whole video LMAO. Great content tho, the names are just a plus!
Sven-Bertil för guds skull, SVEN-BERTIL 😭😆
As a Texan I honestly thought he was spot on! 😂
@@floppsymoppsy5969 omg NOOO😂 he sounds extremelt funny. American (or just english speakiers in general) sound VERY funny when they talk swedish🤣
@@ceciliaj3148 I believe it. I sound pretty ridiculous just speaking English most of the time. 😊
@@floppsymoppsy5969 hahah. I dont think english sounds funny, british english sounds so much funnier.
But i think the reason for english speakers sounding so funny speaking swedish and other languages like spanish for example, is how you pronounce the R.
In swedish and just most other language, the R is hard. Its like in russian or spanish R. English R is very soft. Also the melody of your language is very different.
But im not judging. Swedish people sound funny speaking english too gahag
The reason the Poang chair is so popular for so long is that it looks good AND is very comfortable. The rattan chairs that you prefer (because your bored with Poang) are very uncomfortable.
I love my Poang. I've had one since I was a teen. I've just replaced the cover to keep it looking clean and fresh.
trueee
It’s also an aalto design knockoff so no wonder it’s so comfy
Good. Then my company won’t stay so long! 🙂
And really, Ikea does NOT have a large selection when it comes to rocking chairs. They have two. Poang it is.
I love how you pretty much get straight to it. No, telling us your life story in the intro. 😊☕
I recently ordered art from Etsy that is interesting and unique. That Audrey Hepburn print is indeed literally everywhere 😆
So are the Desenio Kate Moss prints. If you want to know what not to buy, just search Pinterest or scroll IG.😜
@@michellem3879 😂
Marnie b - which ones please?
@@Fluentinsupply I purchased from LaLaSessions
I still have it in my room from 2011. I loved the style and the subject matter and I very rarely feel that I have to have something to myself when I see art - this one was instant love when I saw it. It might be mass produced, it might have been everywhere and people might hate it or think it's unoriginal or tacky but for me there was a personal connection, and that's enough to keep it.
Love the Poang. The curve of that means I can sit in it for hours without my back hurting. Have leather cushions, so it's not the cheap look of some versions. You can also get custom covers in a variety of colors from Etsy stores. Yes, it will look like a Poang, but I like that.
Yeah this was the hardest pick to wrestle with because as I say in the video, it's actually a great chair at a great price! It's just been a victim of it's own success in my view!
The poang was a great cheaper alternative to a rocking chair when my babies were born. I will always love it
I still love this chair . It’s comfortable
@@Nick_Lewis I may be wrong but wasn’t the Poäng intended as a budget version of the midcentury Carl Malmsten chair in similar form, but which was way out of budget for most people?
I sort of like it, but it doesn’t suit my style
Same as Eames lounge chair with ottoman from Herman Miller at each architect or design bureau. Pöng costs 140€, but Eames 7000€.
So this was very helpful! You are advocating for more individualistic styles, love it! warm greetings from your german/european squad 😊
Love to my European squad! Can't wait to travel to your side of the world again!
Poäng is literally the most comfortable chair I ever owned, while the other two break your butt, sooo I am gonna stick with it 😂
same! and my cats love it too^^
We have a Poäng chair since at least the 2000's. Or at least one that looked like the poang chair.
Then it was made of (it looks like) black leather or another type of easy wipe of material. And it had a little more dimension. Thicker cusion.
It is so comfortabel, its my dads favourite chair.
Hermia At the end of the day, it all depends on what you want a piece for - comfort or statement that nobody wants to sit on.
Totally agree
SAME it looks good and also lasts forever!!!
My ex had the paper lantern pendant and refused to upgrade it for years. Read: Ex
😂 totally valid reason for separation. I mean, there’s just no need for ugly lighting in this day and age. Get it together, guys... 😂
I broke up with someone who cheated at Risk. We all have our reasons and a paper pendant is a good one.
@@Nick_Lewis the ex literally lied to me about what Hogwarts house he is in. I mean, a fictional book with a fictional classification system and he lied about it. Yes, he was actually a slytherin, I kid you not.
@@KM-se4vh Everyone knows the cooler people go to Ravenclaw but I wouldn't lie about my Hogwarts House, even if I were a Slytherin. Totally valid reason for a break up.
😂😂😂😂
“Coz apparently we need magazines to tell us that salads are healthier than burgers.” 😄👏🏻
My mom had a paper lantern over our kitchen sink in the 80's and it burst into flames one day. Never again! LOL!
Maybe not the most optimal placement for inflammable material hahaha
😳
I’m sorry but that’s HILARIOUS
😂😂 I'm sorry but the mental image of that is hilarious
I was part of IKEA back in the late 80"s and helped with launching stores here in the UK. The Lack table is a design masterpiece and I've seen them stacked to create a unique shelving system.
"It's my channel, I can do whatever I want". ROTFWL! Nick, keep doing what you do best, and I'm loving your channel.
Thanks Sarah! That just slipped out. 🤷♂️ 😂
@@Nick_Lewis and that's part of your personality that we love. Don't change.
True and funny. Still, not my style of video.
Your lack table vs lack shelf was a really good point!
Ooof this one hurt lol (quietly shoves Poang chair, paper lantern, faux plants and artwork into the closet 😬). In all seriousness, this is a great vid Nick, I’m really enjoying your content and look forward to more! You’re quick to the point and always come across as sweet and not snarky.
Yep, I have the same 4 things as you! Poang has just been dismantled and stored in the loft, to be brought out if we ever have family staying over again and need extra proper seating. Paper lantern(s) not in main rooms and will be changed one day... I like my fake plants, but they're placed where no one can get close to feel them - no flowers either! Art work, well I only have one left and it will be changed eventually. 😁
I too have a Poang, artwork, and fake plants, and I don't really intend to get rid of them any time soon--they suit me and my family's needs!
Our LACK side/coffee tables, however, were purchased in the "this is why we can't have nice things" phase of our lives, and now that our youngest is 5 we're starting to slowly upgrade all our furniture from LACK to HEMNES. I just didn't want all that really nice, expensive (for IKEA) furniture sitting around where a toddler could ruin it... oof
@@analogwatch Similar situation here: for my crazy cats these items work for my family. I'd rather invest in other items, personalize things around the house, know that if things get damaged, it's ok cos they did not cost much.
I love my paper lantern, it gives nice, diffused light over my desk. The basket doesn't soften the light. But yeah, also broke.
Never having lived in a town where there was an IKEA, but recently finding that they deliver for cheap in my area, I've started looking at their products to help furnish/decorate our new house. Thank you so much for this video and helping me to know the Dos and Don'ts! :)
So, in defense of fake plants: I have cats so I can’t keep real poinsettia (Christmas plant with big red flowers) - it’s toxic to cats and mine have to taste all plants. But I love the plant and I love how it adds to the Christmas decor. So this winter I bought a fake poinsettia from Ikea and believe me it duped quite a few of my friends! Worth every penny, it will for sure come out every holiday season :)
I think the fake plants can be hit or miss, my friend has some more unusually shaped ones that you definitely couldn't tell without properly inspecting.
Yes, I also have fake Christmas plants for this reason. I also have fake plants in the toilet and bathroom since it's just easier to not have to deal with live plants in those environments since that can quickly get icky. I don't expect anyone to mistake them for real plants, it's more about the general vibe. So I'm a fan of IKEA's fake hanging plants for this.
He's not saying don't buy fake plants, he's saying don't buy IKEA's fake plants
My sister lives in Barcelona and has real plants but fake grass. Grass just would not grow where it need to be. Looks great on zoom and the dog isn’t turned off by it. Thought it would be hot.
I have too many cats (3) and over 50 plants, including poinsettias. Unless the cat eats the whole plant in one sitting, the cats will be fine…
I randomly stumbled into this channel and I'm loving the realness and genuine honesty about the products. Its a bit of fresh air and I can't wait to binge more videos from you!
Yes more - the dinning room chair part was very helpful.
I can still feel how uncomfortable those chairs are...
"Maybe your pendant should cost more than a subway sandwich" 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
Iconic. 😂😎 If he would do merch this would be ln the top ten list of sentences he should use for it!
@@thinkingbout he does!
Please cover how to dress windows. So confused about how to modernize the look of my windows.
Yes, would love to see a series of “Buy this not That” ☺️☺️☺️
I really like this content, and I'd love to see more.
Another series that I would love to see from you could be called, "So close, yet so far." You take a look at designs that clearly have a lot of thought and effort put into them but don't quite make the mark because of a few fatal (or trivial!) flaws. I would learn a lot from that.
You magically appeared in my timeline! 2 minutes in and I subscribed. Love the brutal honesty 💅🏽💕
Yay! Thank you! Welcome to the party!
I LOVED that you showed the products in real life, in the store. It gave a real sense to what you were talking about.
Truth is the price is relevant in choosing these items and we'd probably spend more if we could afford it, but we still need something in the meantime.
Yeah no one's actually CHOOSING most of these things.
You have just stated what I came for. I more and more feel that we should rejoyce over the neat and comfy things we are able to own. Paper vs rattan lantern/ or boredome vs excitement? You mean when we look at living in a space? All you need is air, light, water, electricity, temperature control-everything else is called luxury.
“It’s my channel, I can do what I want to”.....BRILLIANT!!! 👏👏👏
Just found your channel. Love your personality, please never change!
I agree about the marble. I live in Greece where the people see marble as a status symbol, no matter how cheap & ugly it is. The wood one I gorgeous and natural.
One point I want to make with some of the cheap, boring pieces at IKEA is that you must remember, these basic pieces are great for those of us who can dress them up with paint techniques or decoupage. I just covered a plain wood table with a beautiful old Indian sari. Now it’s a piece that many comment on in my house. There is always reasons to buy or pick up pieces on the street! Always! Love your channel, thanks for your vids.
This IKEA stand wants more Buy This Not That
And major props for you pronunciation of their products.
Omg you are my new best friend. “It’s my channel, I can do what I want.” “Nobody’s going to believe your cheesy fake plants are real.” Love it.
Okay, the "Grenodle" hurt so much 🙈🙈, I'm gonna teach y'all how to pronounce GRÖNADAL. First of all, the ö is pronounced like the u in "burn". And then it's "Gru" - "nah" - "dawl". Emphasis on the first syllable (and if you wanna be really fancy, throw in a rolled r like the one you hear in Spanish) . "Gröna" means green and "dal" means valley. Grönadal is the name of a Swedish village and pretty much the equivalent of English "Greendale". End of lecture.
(Oh but also: Loved the video! )
I have tried to teach Americans how to pronounce IKEA numerous times but so far, not a single person has even attempted to do it right. My theory is that English speaking people are so privilaged they just don’t care. I wouldn’t expect anyone to be able to pronounce all the decor names but at least learn to say IKEA, lol. Cheers! :)
@@lipstickstories2409How is Ikea pronounced? I'm really curious and want to try to remember it next time I say it. American but Spanish speaker here.
@@MarleneIsHungry ee - kee - ya. Accent on second syllable
@@MarleneIsHungry Seeeeee, you confirm my theory since you speak Spanish as well :) It is the first letter everyone pronounce wrong. We pronounce i as ee. So to pronounce ot right, you should say eek-éa. Thank you for asking :)
@@lipstickstories2409 Nick is Canadian
I am almost finished decorating my long hallway - bought decor from Etsy, Walmart, Amazon, a thrift store, a museum gift shop, my Mum's hatband (she passed away in 2007) and my children's childhood artwork (they are now grown and flown) but alas, nothing from IKEA. It's very personal, unique, timeless and yet, IMHO, warm and welcoming, as it's the hallway from front door to my living/kitchen area. This video was helpful and helped me to see styles that are classic, timeless and yet, updated and unique.
We need this to be a regular segment to the channel! ❤️
I really love the way you explain why so people who don’t really understand or have the eye for it can grasp it. Very professionally done.
Hi Nick! Your videos are really really helpful! I think after watching your series on the most popular styles I can tell them apart when I see the whole picture. However, I'm still confused sometimes when I see isolated objects (chairs, dishes, wall clocks etc.) as to which style they would fit in. Would love to see more videos comparing styles within one category of objects :) but then again, I greatly appreciate the content you already have!
I hate to tell you this Nick, but as a veteran IKEA Canada employee I can confirm that thousands of customers would disagree with you regarding the FEJKA plants. When they’re set in a plant pot and separate from being merchandised together, many people believe they’re real. Some oddly believe they’re real when grouped together on a shelf. I have both real and artificial in my home and nobody can tell the difference. I would love to send you photos and challenge you to spot the FEJKA!
I agree with most of this. However... I have the regolet, but I painted it (carefully because it's rice paper and disolves under wet paint) and then covered it with flowers that I made from coffee filters and had also painted. It looks amazing. The omnipresense of most of the generic IKEA stuff is super cringy, but... some of it just loans itself so well to customising. The problem is when people buy these items mindlessly to achieve a very blah look. Love your channel!
love this! you should do this for other slightly more expensive stores with standard stock like west elm!
Because I live in a smaller metropolitan area, we only just got an IKEA a few years ago. Everything is still new for this area as we had to travel 6 hours to once visit one.
Some of this design like the Poang chair is still novel and beautiful to me as marshmallow furniture has always been the cheap fall back with the socio-economic group I know.
Just a theory
"Maybe your pendant in your beautiful living room should cost more than a Subway sandwich." LOL
this guy has a very unique, humor and entertaining way in explaining things, especially pendant selection!!! just like trevor noah daily show! these people do have talent!!!
Nick: “in my opinion”, that is what we come here for- we value it! Just say it, no need to apologize. Speak with the authority that you own- we see it. Time for you to see it. Cheers! Cathy
The Nick Lewis Channel! Come for the Great Advice, stay for Nicks hilarious quips! I'm glad RUclips suggested it! ❤😍👏
Great video! I agree with you for most of it but not for Ribba and Regolit.
Ribba used to be good but nowadays they dip it in so much flame retardant that it stinks up the whole room (at least here in Europe because of fire safety regulations), and sadly the smell never goes away.
I don't care how cheap Regolit is, rice paper is a noble material and paper lamps are timeless classics. Check out Isamu Noguchi's Akari lamps for instance. Regolit works beautifully in any scandi or japandi interior and will never go out of style imo :)
Love the Poang... comfort and simplicity, it's my favorite reading chair. Also, like the laminate counter top for price and durability. My old butcherblock, yes, laminate countertops still strong after 30+ years.
I'm with you on the pendants, the woven ones are beautiful.
loved this video! Would definitely watch more of this! greetings from Belgium! xx
Love that you said you can get them printed “the old fashioned way” lol I use that phrase all the time 😂
But listen, the Poang is SO comfy!! My opinion: it's timeless
It’s also an aalto design knockoff so no wonder it’s so comfy
Totally! I love the other chair recommended to, but Poang is a classic
I can see both sides of the coin on this one. If I looked at the chair without considering how over done it is, it's a really aesthetically pleasing chair. I think we just see it so much we can become "bored" of it for lack of a better term. But if you love it in your space, then its 100% the right chair. If something sparks joy for you it's the perfect thing. I have a few things around my place I'm sure people would hate on but I'm so happy in my space, who cares? 😄
@@sl3772 The Poang was the most controversial pick for sure - and I knew that going in. That's why I went thorough that at one point it was really interesting, but to me, it's a victim of its own success. It is comfy though! Oh and yes, if you love it - then awesome! Who cares what I think? 😂
I just bought my first poang yesterday!!! Have sat in it at the store many times but thought hmmm very plain. Finally bought it and now I see I am out of style!!! I love this chair but will be dressing it up somehow. Suggestions welcome!!!
The regolit pendant is great for a kids room. And one thing you can do that is super cool, you can spray it with paints in the color scheme and it makes super unique lighting.
Great series idea! I’d love to see it regularly for other retailers
YES about the LACK shelves. They're sturdy and give some substance to a floating shelf. The tables, however, are just horrible. Good point!
"It's my channel, I can do whatever I want" you little stinker...🤣 I love it!!
haha you know me! 🤷♂️
Hmmm its my home I can do whatever I want 😉
@@pollyanna5354 you sure can!
“Maybe your pendant in your beautiful living room should cost more than a subway sandwich, that’s all I’m saying” 😂😂 I’m DEAD! He reaaaaaally doesn’t like the Regolit pendant. I discovered this channel today and I’m already 7 videos in. Love him! ❤️
I love the rattan chairs but they are going to look extremely dated soon, they were a huge 2020 interior design fad.
They always come and go. The reason they go is because they don't wear well and look shabby not chic after a while
Yes. I find them looking oldfashioned and cheap. I'd rather buy a big armchair 😄
Hey nick ! Growing up I wanted study interior designing and stuff because even though we are dirt poor I grew up and went ahead and saw/ read too many magazines and made up all kind of fantasies in my head. But unfortunately my parents would have never supported me in this field so I never told a soul that I wanted to this course which they thought was just very boujee and not realistic. Anyway I am writing this because when I saw you yesterday I found your videos so interesting and Honestly I could hear you talk for hours because I enjoy your insights so much and I kept wondering that I genuinely would have loved this if I did study. And you are so smart and I intelligent I envy you so much. I just wanted to thank you for making this videos I feel like I live through this. Thank you so much.
Hahaha I laughed really hard when you mentioned the paper pendant light and how it looks like a dorm room, because that's exactly what I had back in my uni days :D To my defence, I was very much into Japanese culture, so it complemented a lot of authentic east Asian pieces of decor and Japan-inspired DIYs that I had :) I submit that the square Lack table and the rectangular variant are very different, the latter tends to bend and warp in the middle very quickly (especially that bottom shelf), whereas with the square tables physics work in the construction's favour. It's no coincidence that square Lack tables are one of the most popular base for IKEA hackers. Loved the video and looking forward to sequels. If you ever have it in you to do something about beds and sofas I'd be most interested ;) All the best!
Your fashion is great but your humor is just the best!! Love all your videos! Ha! "Your pendent light should cost more than a Subway sandwich "! I'm still laughing
You're the best! Thanks Jules!
Didn't you just have 60 000 subscribers??? Wow I'm so happy for you! Btw could you do some kind of video about rugs?
I was thinking the same thing. This channel blew up in a few weeks. ❤
Hallelujah to the real plants over fake plants debate 🙌🏻
I personally fall into the “no fake plants, EVER” school of thought. If you’re tempted to do it because of poor natural lighting conditions or you just don’t want to care for something (hey, I get it, I used to travel a lot and was constantly out on the town in my 20s - wanted the least responsibility possible!), consider a beautiful dried arrangement.
I recently bought a super cool 70s-vibe dried arrangement from a florist but you can easily make one yourself for much cheaper. Happy arranging! 🌸
"Maybe your pendant in your beautiful living room should cost more than a Subway sandwich. That's all I'm saying." This will be my new motto. This quote alone made me subscribe to your channel.
Same, subbed after that statement
Love your comparison...very insightful & want to see more. Also, I couldn't help but laugh at your wonderful honesty. We all have thought the same thing as you but just didn't say it out loud like you. I so connect with you on every level!! More please!!
I used to live in the Netherlands too! And I've been saying to pass on those prints for yeaaaaars. Great format!
I love this video concept for furnitures! Personally, I would still buy a Poang chair because it’s just so comfortable but you make a good point.
Dude! The poang is super comfy and good for back support, the other chairs you mention are not! I go for health and comfort over trend in the long run
I laughed so much.
Love your character!
Please continue with this series!
I’d love to see the same with Target or West Elm or just any other store!! I’m trying to find my style that isn’t college dorm as I’m now finished with that time in my life 😂
Just found your channel and love all your videos. You give out a lot of helpful information and make interior design seems effortless. You don’t make us stick to one style or one particular furniture, a lot of good examples and ideas, give us a lot of options. Thank you so much!!
Loved this! Could you do one using pottery barn, west elm and restoration hardware?
I bought the white paper ball pendant and placed it instead of a more expensive one. I use that light in the evening while playing, watching something etc and it is perfect because its surface is solid, there are no those irritating little rays of light. I will change it when I find another good non-heavy pendant with soft light and no visible bulb, but it works fine for now.
"Maybe your pendant in your living room should cost more than a subway sandwich." Can't. Stop. Laughing.
I am an aspiring interior designer and oh boy, I value your channel a lot. So much helpful info and easy to understand explanations (English is not my first language and no, you don't speak too fast ;) ). I follow or followed multiple designers and despite the fact that they have more subscribers (for now!) you are just the best. So please, keep doing what you doing because it's great. One thing I would change though is more frequent videos! ;)
Is it just me or does Nick mention rattan every video? I imagine his home is just all rattan everywhere and he just loves rattan!!
Rattan.
Rattan os great for light use. Every day, day in and out use and it looks shabby not chic
MORE, YES PLEASE! I took a few screenshots so I can find the pieces you just made me fall in love with. Thank you! Can't wait till you make another one...
4:09 As a Swede I'm having fun trying to guess what the actual names are on the Ikea products you are talking about by just listening to how you pronounce it and not looking at the names. SVENBERTIL aka "SWENTERBILL" as you pronunced it was the best one yet, you even moved aroud the letters. It's a swedish male name Sven-Bertil, a double name made of to swedish male names Sven and Bertil.
We have a Swedish singer/actor who's name is Sven-Bertil Taube, son of Evert Taube who was a Swedish author, artist, composer and singer.
Evert Taube is widely regarded as one of Sweden's most respected musicians and the foremost troubadour of the Swedish ballad tradition in the 20th century.
“That day is no longer here” cracked me up! Hahah
I’m so glad you made a RUclips channel. I enjoy your content and personality so much!
💕
Yrs, love this “Buy this, not that” series.
Darn you, Nick Lewis! I came upon one of your Ikea videos and loved it. But then RUclips suggested another. And another. I'M TRAPPED!!!
FYI: the snake plant is toxic to cats and dogs! However it is gorgeous.
A lady at the nursery told me to put pepper around the base of mine. Don’t know for sure if that did it, but my cat has never messed with mine.
Totally, if you're looking for real plants with pets, check out prayer plants and calatheas. Pretty big variety. And palms. You can google basically any plant to find out. My one cat chews on my plants so I always have to research it.
Thanks!
Some cats take out there eyes from the pain make the peper or chili.... So it's better sprei with water or change the plant!
@@sl3772 Palms, while gorgeous, might result in chewed up leaves if you've got cats, heh. My palms were suffering big time (until I gave them away to my parents to nurse them back to health), so nowadays I mostly only go for cacti... At least my cat doesn't chew those up. T_T
Absolutely, please, some more of these. Would love to see you compare high end furniture stores -- you would have a hilarious take on Restoration Hardware, I'll just bet? Thanks for all your hard work, Nick, LOVE your videos!
Yes!! More “Buy this and not that” please ☺️
Great idea for a video, Nick! All things at Ikea are not created equally great so this is really helpful, especially for those of us who are doing most of our Ikea shopping online these days and aren't able to view items in person.
Love this video. Do more please. Maybe Target next?
I second this!!! But he’s in Canada and I don’t think they have Target there, not quite sure. I hope I’m wrong because I would love a target video.
@@Cee_huggs we briefly had Target. I'm so looking forward to cross-border Target shopping once the vaccine is rolled out!!
First time seeing one of your videos. I enjoyed it. I will give a small shout out for the Lack side tables though. My mother is elderly and her old coffee table was large heavy and had glass inserts. It was difficult to move. My step Dad, also elderly fell onto it and luckily the glass insert that broke did not cut him. She needed something smaller and lighter and easier to move. 2 Lack side tables give her everything she needs. Function, light weight, no glass hazard, she can move them around as needed.
I’m a serial plant killer, so faux plants are a must for me.
I refuse to accept real plants and flowers as gifts🤣😂
My cat is a serial plant killer, so.. same
Try spider plants, I drown my without any drainage holes and they thrive!
Man!! I sadly put in the fake marble a few months ago. Only on the new cabinet area. I have a butcher block island top...so....I will change it all to oak vaneer. Just started watching your channel. Love it!