When it comes to interior design, some are of the opinion that you can’t go wrong with the classics. Swedish retail giant IKEA seems to appreciate this sentiment and is celebrating the store’s 80th anniversary by reintroducing timeless pieces from decades past.  The IKEA Nytillverkad line reimagines past chair designs and is the furniture giant’s fresh take on old-school staples. It’s striking a chord with younger generations as unexpected furniture trends are coming back in style.

Two accent chairs from IKEA’s Nytillverkad collection are making waves on social media. The SKÅLBODA Armchair was first introduced in 1983 and has been brought back to IKEA’s shelves in new colors. The wire frame accent chair is now available in a punchy, orange hue and more understated black and white options. IKEA’s SOTENÄS Armchair is another popular choice for Gen Z consumers and is making a comeback after first appearing in a 1969 catalog. The plush, sculptural chair is available in sunny yellow and bright red styles. 

It’s no surprise these unique accent chairs resonate with younger shoppers, given the big differences between Gen Z and millennial home decor trends. While millennials’ affection for minimalism has been all the rage in recent years, Gen Z favors bolder, maximalist design. Here is why IKEA’s vintage accent chairs are so popular with the new generation of shoppers. 

Gen Z loves a statement piece, and IKEA’s accent chairs effortlessly blend sleek design with eye-catching colors. When it comes to seating, Gen Z prefers curved, sculptural couches and chairs with soft edges and more organic shapes. IKEA’s SOTENÄS and SKÅLBODA armchairs fit right in with this description and feature more rounded frame designs. The chairs’ brighter color options also fit right in with what Gen Z is looking for in home decor. Those born between the years of 1997 and 2012 are known to favor vibrant color palettes that pack a punch. This could explain why the yellow SOTENÄS armchair is gaining traction on social media, since yellow is one of Gen Z’s favorite colors in interior design. 

Another draw to the IKEA accent chairs is their affordable price tags. Gen Z consumers are budget-conscious and know the value of a good deal. The SOTENÄS armchair is priced at $249, whereas similar lounge chairs at other retailers cost more than double.  The SKÅLBODA comes at an even cheaper price of $99.99, with comparable products selling elsewhere for over $500.

Finally, the IKEA accent chairs are likely so popular due to the fact that IKEA is marketing directly to Gen Z shoppers. The furniture retailer is making efforts to reach Gen Z shoppers by taking into consideration their preferences and viral trends, like with their Nytillverkad collection reboot.

Like most products, there are both pros and cons to purchasing IKEA’s revamped accent chairs. Overall, the SKÅLBODA wire chair has satisfied shoppers and boasts a near-perfect 4.7 out of 5 stars rating on the IKEA website. “I absolutely love this chair, stunning design and color. I am so glad that iconic pieces have been returned to the current range,” one reviewer shared. Buyers love the overall aesthetic of the chair, but some report that the metal frame isn’t comfortable, and it’s hard to sit in for long periods of time. 

The SOTENÄS armchair was also well received and is rated 4.2 out of 5 stars in customer satisfaction. Buyers report enjoying the bright colors, and one reviewer shared, “These chairs are so sunny, they make me smile just looking at them. The yellow is so cheerful.” One potential downside is that the chair is positioned low to the ground, which can make it difficult to get in and out of.

Overall, the hype surrounding IKEA’s re-released accent chairs is understandable. The highly rated furniture pieces resonate with Gen Z audiences with their sleek, retro style and vibrant color options. IKEA has successfully bridged the gap between generations with a modern take on vintage classics.