EP 043 - "There's no difference between high-end design and IKEA" - with Patrik Gustafsson, Head of Retail Design, Ingka Group - IKEA

Beyond Interior Design Podcast: The Business of High-End Design

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WORLD PREMIERE ALERT! 🌍 For the first time ever, IKEA steps into the podcasting world—and it’s happening right here on the Beyond Interior Design Podcast!
What if there’s no difference between high-end luxury design and the accessible, affordable creations of IKEA? In this eye-opening episode, Marc sits down with Patrik Gustafsson, Global Home Furnishing and Retail Design Manager at IKEA, to uncover the secrets behind IKEA’s revolutionary approach to design. With over 20 years of experience shaping homes around the world, Patrik offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how IKEA seamlessly combines beauty, function, affordability, and sustainability—and why these principles work just as well for luxury interiors as they do for mass-market solutions.

Key highlights from this episode:

• 🔑 How IKEA uses activities and human needs as the foundation for every design decision.
• 🌱 The role of democratic design in creating products that are affordable, functional, and sustainable.
• 🏡 Why designing for real life—not just aesthetics—is the secret to long-lasting, impactful interiors.
• 🛠️ Lessons luxury designers can learn from IKEA’s simple, yet genius, approach to problem-solving through design.
• 🌍 How IKEA is shaping a more sustainable future with innovative materials, circularity, and bold design decisions.

Whether you’re an interior designer seeking inspiration, a homeowner looking to transform your space, or simply a design enthusiast curious about what makes IKEA so iconic, this episode is packed with actionable insights and fresh perspectives.

💡 Why listen?

Patrik shares not just the story of IKEA, but how their design ethos can inspire anyone—from global brands to boutique luxury studios. Discover how understanding your client’s needs, focusing on functionality, and thinking sustainably can elevate your work, no matter your budget or scale.

Get ready to challenge the way you think about design—because whether it’s a high-end project or IKEA, great design is all about creating solutions that truly work.

📌 Connect with us:

Follow us for more interior design insights:

• Instagram: @beyondinteriordesign
• Website: www.beyondinteriordesign.club

🎧 Where to listen:

Find this episode on your favorite platforms:

• Spotify
• Apple Podcasts
• Buzzsprout