IKEA has been a leader in ready-to-assemble furniture since its inception in 1943, becoming a go-to for affordable modern designs. The Swedish brand's influence is so extensive that Sweden is now working to reclaim names like Bolmen, which refers to both a toilet brush and a breathtaking lake. While many people enjoy IKEA's stylish flat-pack solutions, these items often have a fleeting presence in homes.
This November, an auction at Barneby's New York highlighted the importance of keeping certain items, as the IKEA Cavelli armchair designed by Bengt Ruda sold for an impressive $14,510. Although the Cavelli debuted in 1958, not all highly valued IKEA items originate from that period.
For instance, you might own one of the geometric Vilbert chairs from the 1990s, now valued at around $1,333.50, or still be lounging on your '80s Skye chair worth approximately $1,167. Even a Stockholm bookcase from the 2010s is fetching over $800 today. With the Cavelli chair's auction success in mind, we've compiled a list of 10 of the most sought-after IKEA treasures that could be sitting in your home.
1. IKEA Cavelli Chair
Year: 1958
Value: $14,510
As the pinnacle of vintage IKEA, the Cavelli chair sold for over $14,500 this November. With only five units produced, its design by Bengt Ruda is truly rare.
IKEA Tema Shelving
Decade: 1950
Estimated Value: $6,000
This mid-century teak shelving unit, created by Gillis Lundgren, is celebrated for its functionality.
IKEA Selebo Bookcase
Decade: 1990s
Estimated Value: $4,077
IKEA Singoalla Lounge
Decade: 1960s
Estimated Value: $3,296
This elegant chaise lounge, available in various upholstery styles, features birchwood legs and remains a classic piece.
IKEA Bergslagen Table
Decade: 1990s
Estimated Value: $3,899
The gateleg table has become a staple for compact, modern living spaces for over thirty years.
IKEA Borkum Sofa
Decade: 1960s
Estimated Value: $3,859
This tufted gem, designed by Johan Bertil Häggström, is among IKEA's most coveted models from the 1960s.
IKEA Åke Chair
Decade: 1950s
Estimated Value: $3,378
Known as The Clam Chair, this whimsical mid-century design showcases its birchwood arms and legs beautifully.
IKEA Ladoga Chest
Decade: 1960s
Estimated Value: $2,953
Crafted by Erik Worts, this striking teak chest combines ample storage with a rich history.
IKEA Amiral Chairs
Decade: 1970s
Estimated Value: $2,667
Designed by Karin Mobring, the Amiral chair was originally made with premium saddle leather, making it a rare find today.
IKEA Esbjerg Chair
Decade: 1950s
Estimated Value: $2,608
The Esbjerg chair, designed by Danish architect Thomas Harlev, debuted in 1957, proving that affordable furniture can be stylish. Though it disappeared from catalogs in 1964, it returned in the late 2010s as EKENÄSET.
