What Designers Buy at IKEA: Jena Zhdanova's Selection

Designers often buy furniture and decor at IKEA — for projects and personal apartments. We asked Jena Zhdanova which products became her favorites and why.

Jena Zhdanova is a Russian interior designer and decorator, founder of the online interior boutique DivaDecor.ru

About her favorite product

My favorite item is the frame for wardrobes PAKS. They have a convenient size range — easy to design storage systems in hallways, wardrobes, and bedrooms.

Paks Wardrobe

In my latest project, I used shelves KALLAXS. An ideal solution for organizing storage in children's rooms: easy to expand with drawer units, toy storage boxes, or leave empty shelves for books.

KALLAXS Shelf in Jena Zhdanova's Project

Most often, I use kitchens METHOD with various fronts: such kitchens don’t need to be waited for — just come, design right in the store, and assemble literally the next day. My favorite fronts are BUDBIN, a modern and timeless classic.

METHOD Kitchen with BUDBIN Fronts

The most successful collaboration for me was with John Carlsson who developed the SWALNÉS collection. This is a modular storage and workspace system made of bamboo. Bamboo is one of the most eco-friendly materials, so it's an excellent solution for people concerned about our planet's future.

SWALNÉS Series

In the new YPPERLIG collection, I especially liked vases made of stone ceramic painted by hand with colorful glaze. The lively and authentic texture and pleasant color combinations.

YPPERLIG Collection

Products that have taken root at home

At home, I have items from the LIXHULT series — they have durable materials and vibrant designs. Also various storage boxes, bedding.

Jena Zhdanova's Apartment, LIXHULT Storage System

Indispensable items for me are candleholders and candles. They easily create a festive and cozy atmosphere in any room.

Candelabra and Candleholder PEARL BAND

News

Among new items, I recommend paying attention to the TILLAGD tableware set — tableware in such finishes costs a fortune, but here the price is completely reasonable, and the quality and design are impressive.

TILLAGD Tableware

I was captivated by leather handles OSTERNÉS — elegant, in mid-century modern style, which is currently at the peak of popularity.

OSTERNÉS Leather Handles

Quick Interview: 5 Fast Questions for Jena

The best gift from IKEA... is a LED night light LURIGA in the shape of a raccoon! It will make anyone smile — whether adult or child.

It's hard to leave IKEA without... a purchase! Photo frames, vases, candleholders and candles, towels, throws, cushions, and dishes jump into the shopping cart by themselves.

My favorite department at IKEA... is decor and accessories.

Most often I visit IKEA... on Monday mornings because it's the perfect time to calmly walk through departments and review everything without hustle, rush, or chaos. And now it’s also very convenient to shop at IKEA online.

I love IKEA for... the fact that you can leave the store with purchases and start using them right away.

Jena Zhdanova's Apartment, IKEA Vase and Candles