7 Cult-Favorite IKEA Pieces That Definitely Live Up to the Hype

updated Dec 19, 2019
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Post Image
(Image credit: Joe Lingeman)

When it comes to IKEA products and furniture, some items can feel a bit, well, over-exposed. Like if you see it one more time on Instagram or even in an Apartment Therapy house tour, your head might explode. Or is that just me? All kidding aside, there are more than a few IKEA pieces that have become cult-classics. And it’s not just because they’re cheap. They actually live up to the hype either in terms of form, function or both.

Wonder whether you own any of these standout products? See what made our list below.

(Image credit: IKEA)

1. BILLY Bookcase

IKEA estimates that one of these simple shelving units is sold somewhere in the world every five seconds. Available in four different finishes, you can’t go wrong with a BILLY for cookbooks, dishes, or other objects. Adjustable shelves make it easy to keep retrofitting this piece to your stuff as it changes. You can even add doors for a more refined look.

Buy: BILLY Bookcase, $69

(Image credit: IKEA)

2. SINNERLIG Pendant Lamp

This Ilse Crawford original design, crafted from bamboo lattice, is on the fast-track to cult-classic status. It’s pretty big and can throw major boho vibes in a bedroom, dining room, entryway, and beyond — all for an easy-on-the-wallet price.

Buy: SINNERLIG Pendant Lamp, $70

(Image credit: IKEA)

3. LACK Side Table

With its high gloss white finish, this piece nails the Parsons-style look for under $20. Enough said really. And you don’t have to worry to much about being a Coaster Enforcer.

Buy: LACK Side Table, $15

(Image credit: IKEA)

4. RIBBA Frame

Custom framing costs an arm and a leg. That’s why so many people have turned to RIBBA for standard size pieces. They’re simple for sure, but every gallery wall could probably stand to have a few of them in the mix.

Buy: RIBBA Frame, from $8

(Image credit: IKEA)

5. DOCKSTA Table

This white circular table with a tulip-shaped base is bit of a Knoll knock-off, but I’ve never minded. It’s great for small spaces and mine has managed to stay in good shape despite its light finish.

Buy: DOCKSTA Table, $199

(Image credit: IKEA)

6. KALLAX Shelf Unit

The EXPEDIT shelf that everyone had now goes by the name of KALLAX, and it’s just as versatile as ever. Bookshelf or room divider? You decide!

Buy: KALLAX Shelf Unit, $109

(Image credit: IKEA)

The oversized version of this light was so popular, IKEA created a smaller scale duplicate that has appeared in many a kid’s room, dining room and living room. I’ve seen this thing painted gold, without its dandelion-like “petals” installed, and with magnetic letters affixed to its metal frame, and it continues to look good no matter what you do (or don’t do) to it.

Buy: MASKROS Pendant Lamp, $60

This post originally ran on Apartment Therapy. See it there: 10 Cult-Favorite IKEA Pieces That Definitely Live Up to the Hype