Close

IKEA’s latest book showcases how we can make the world a better place one step at a time

'Us & Our Planet: This is How We Live' comprises six thematic chapters by drawing inspiration from h

Since 1943, Swedish company IKEA has revolutionised the design and furniture market. Throughout the years, IKEA has expanded worldwide, thanks to its strength: producing –— with care for the environment – and selling affordable, easy-to-assemble and install, quality home furnishings. The company’s aim has been to improve both the lives of its customers and the state of the environment through design pieces that combine functionality, beauty and sustainability. This spirit nurtures the 256 pages and 300 illustrations of Us & Our Planet: This is How We Live, a new book presented by Phaidon and IKEA. 

Showcasing the home life of 12 individuals – including activists, artists, athletes and gardeners – as well as young families in different parts of the world – including Beirut, Nigeria and New York – the aim of the book is to explore sustainable living through small actions that can have big impacts. 

“We wanted to ask ourselves what was possible… If it’s up to us to do something, let’s do it,” says Gabriela Martin from Mexico, one of the book’s interviewees. For architect Elora Hardy, who specialises in designing sustainable bamboo structures in Bali, “it’s not enough to be better or create less harm – we need ways to be good, be proud of what we do and make.”

Others sharing their experiences and thoughts throughout the pages include fourteen-year-old Indian activist Ridhima Pandey, the young Leven family who live in a small apartment near Moscow, and Los Angeles-based gardener Ron Finley, known for transforming neglected roadside areas into community gardens in low-income neighbourhoods. 

The book draws inspiration from the home visits IKEA has conducted all over the world since the 1950s to find out how people live and how lifestyles can be improved, using the feedback for product development. 

Us & Our Planet comprises six thematic chapters that refer to some of our most precious resources: time, space, food, rest, play and togetherness. “Food is an important common ground to build on,” says Kamal Mouzawak from Lebanon. “It breaks boundaries and misconceptions.”

Along with these personal stories, the book highlights iconic and ‘democratic’ IKEA pieces (three per chapter) created according to the core principles of the brand: form, function, quality, sustainability and affordability. Among the examples are the Lövet table, which led IKEA to launch its ‘flat pack’ concept, and the soon-to-be-released tap adaptor, which reduces water usage. 

As educational as it is inspiring, Us & Our Planet is a call to action for each and every one of us.

The Latest

Otherworldly

The new Alémais Sydney headquarters reflects the brand’s flair for colourful prints and embellishments

Between Sky and Steel

We step into a sculptural apartment in Istanbul, Turkey

identity Design Awards 2025 shortlist: All Categories

Shortlist revealed for all the categories for identity Design Awards 2025

Brimming with Warmth

Atlas Concorde’s porcelain tiles enhance the contemporary design of this villa in Bodrum, Turkey

The Lighthouse

Carrie Das has completed a beachfront home that bridges Asia-inspired minimalism and touches of British heritage

Frieze Abu Dhabi

Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Frieze announce launch of Frieze Abu Dhabi

The move marks a new chapter in the emirate’s role on the global art calendar.

For Those Who Know

Gaggenau’s new Expressive series draws inspiration from Bauhaus principles and the minimalism of modernist architecture

Eternal Flow

Inspired by the open seas and its five-star location on the Palm Jumeirah, this nature-inspired home by Katrin & Muse Design brims with inspiration

Where Faith, Knowledge and Community Converge

Conceived by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of Qatar Foundation, Al-Mujadilah Center and Mosque for Women in Qatar is the first purpose-built contemporary women’s mosque in the Muslim world

An Ethereal Stay

A bespoke, cultural and spiritual adventure awaits in the remote, magical Kingdom of Mustang with the all-inclusive Shinta Mani Mustang – A Bensley Collection hotel

Celebrating artistry, heritage, and community

Casamia & Mustard & Linen host a cultural exchange celebrating Emirati Women’s Day

Skyline Serenity

A family home in Almaty, Kazakhstan blends modern architecture, bespoke craftsmanship and global design icons