Shopaholics Anonymiss: The Inspiration Within: IKEA Catalogue 2014

I was going to do a post on some of my favourite items from Ikea's new catalogue, but then something seriously caught my fancy and I decided to do a 180 on this post. I hope I'm not the only one that likes to read every little blurb on the page of a magazine (or a textbook, I can't help it, and it really doesn't help me come exam cram study time...). Today's blurb reading adventure opened my eyes to the genius that is the editing team for the Ikea catalogue. I would like to share with you some of my favourite quotes, pro-tips, and ideas from Ikea's beautiful pages. It's so amazing how Ikea really does take into account every little detail of their products, their own brand's goals and values, as well as their consumers' lifestyles. They think long and hard about everything, so you don't have to. So grab a copy of the 2014 catalogue to follow along, and enjoy the...

Philosophy of the home, according to Ikea:

-Life at home is about creating space for everyday life as it happens. For all the things you want to do. For the things you love. And for everyone that you spend your time with. Because when the home works for the way you live, life simply becomes better.

-Often, it's the smallest moments that matter the most. Like being lazy on the sofa, legs crossed, talking about everything and nothing. Or finding the time to be together, doing the most ordinary everyday things. Don't be afraid to bend the rules to create a home that works for you.

Pg. 21: Underneath this GÄSER rug, there is a basketball court painted on the floor. (You wouldn't even know it if they didn't mention it. For context's sake, there's a basketball net hung up on the wall of their displayed living room. Genius!)

Pg. 23: Switch your phone off and take 15 minutes on your own in a cozy, quiet spot.

Pg. 25: Plant's make a room come alive. And they're good for the air too.

Pg. 29: This SÖDERHAMN sofa combination sears you and 13 of your favourite people. (Those couch feels.)

Pg. 35: In all homes, big or small, you sometimes need to be on your own for a while. To turn yours back on everything, but still stay close. Two sofas, back to back, can create such calm little islands for 30-minute anyday holidays.

Pg. 42: Mixing and matching only has one rule. If things are beautiful to you, they will always have the right style.

Pg. 49: Let your storage grow with your interests and needs. Add one piece of storage at a time. It also becomes your own style - eclectic, ever-changing and rich with experience.

Pg. 67: Having a day bed in your office - now that's a good idea.

Pg. 81: Given their size, babies need a surprisingly large amount of space. Part of it has to do with those grown-ups who follow them around everywhere.

Pg. 87: Combine tables with similar measurements to make a really long one. And why not go for legs in different styles to give each table its own expression?

Pg. 87: Storage doesn't have to be stationary - wheel the stuff you need wherever you want it. And then put it back at the dedicated parking spot.

Pg. 95: By extending the kitchen island with a table, the one who's cooking becomes a part of the party too.

Pg. 101: Watching someone cook can be fun, no matter if it's a plain pasta or something fancy and festive. By having a small dining area at the kitchen island, it becomes easier for everyone to get closer to the cooking action. It will make the food a lot tastier and the chef a whole lot prouder.

Pg. 112: Save the water you use to rinse vegetables in the VÅLLÖ watering can and then water your plants with it.

Pg. 124: You know that weekend getaway feeling? This is just like that. Only you're in your own home.

Pg. 148: Keep dryers, brushes and combs on a cart outside the bathroom so you can fix your hair there during the rush hour.

Pg. 182: Fine dining isn't about the silverware or fancy napkins. It's about coming together and creating a moment that feels just as good as it tastes. So why not let everyone bring their own favourite chair to the table? Comfort is individual.

Pg. 256: Our elk holds his head high and looks out, fearlessly. The elk represents strength and confidence. That's what we felt when we designed this quilt cover and that's what we hope you will feel when you sleep in it - and wake up feeling strong and ready to face your day. (Talking about the elk motif on the ÄNGSSPIRA duvet cover.)

Pg. 257: A magical place where fern grows wild inspired Maria Vinka to create this pattern. (Talking about the pattern on the STOCKHOLM duvet cover.)

Pg. 274: Anyone between 1 and 99 years old can slip in a bathtub or shower. This crocodile will, however, try to prevent that from happening. (Talking about the PATRULL bath tub mat.)

Featured in this year's catalogue, here are some products that I'm super in love with: