Finding affordable furniture that's both stylish and long-lasting can be tricky. While there are many budget-friendly options, they are not always the most effective choice. Some fast furniture can only last a handful of years due to a lack of durability, often down to cheap composition. However, when I think of affordable yet reliable furniture, IKEA is one of the first names that springs to mind.
IKEA has long been at the top of furniture trends. They design with practicality and style in mind, making the store a great place to start when shopping for staple pieces. I love scrolling through IKEA room ideas and eyeing up its newest collections and have discovered so many examples of high-end-looking furniture and home decor.
So I will share my findings and have curated a list of my top choices that are bound to make any home feel more expensive and sophisticated.
9 expensive-looking IKEA pieces
Bedframes can be super expensive but luckily IKEA has you covered with the VEVELSTAD as it's both trendy and affordable. Composed of rattan, it's elegant and light, making it the perfect choice for renters as it's easy to transport and place behind any bed.
Chic yet practical, this upholstered bench is the ultimate source of storage that doubles up as a seat. You can house anything in the VALTORP Bench, from clothing to books, making it an all-rounder that works in any room. It's also covered in a soft green fabric that makes it feel plush and luxurious.
Rattan is very on-trend for 2025, making this MÅNALG Wall lamp a clever choice for your home. The wicker-style fabric allows light to filter through and creates a pretty pattern, bound to light up any space. I suggest fitting this above your bed for a source of overhead lighting that's easy to switch on and off with the pull cord.
The loveseat is designed to be smaller than your typical sofa and comfortably seat two people, so if you're working with a small space this is the piece for you. It's also a classic shape that won't date, and skirted furniture is having a revival in 2025. The HYLTARP comes in many shades but I like the pale blue best as it's understated yet brings a touch of subdued color to a living room.
Paired with a brass base and a rich green shade, the FLYGHÖJD floor lamp is sophisticated and timeless. It's a piece that would look good in any room, but I suggest positioning it in a reading nook or the corner of a bedroom for a pocket of warmth.
With dainty gold accents and wood paneling, the LOMMARP Cabinet looks expensive and bespoke. My favorite is the dark blue-green as it's rich and luxurious, making it a perfect piece for a dining room where you're hosting guests. Try creating a trendy DIY bar cabinet by placing cocktail glasses and drinks inside.
Reminiscent of antique rugs, the HOLSTEBRO feels charming and timeless and will bring some character to a room. I like the subdued color combination as it allows for almost any shade to be introduced within the space. A top tip is to pair the rug with gold accents as this will emphasise its antique style.
Cabinets are one of the most tricky furniture pieces to find at an affordable price. I like the IDANÄS as it's stained in a dark brown shade that makes it feel old and sophisticated. It's also simple, yet classic in design making it a staple that would suit any home of any style.
The HOLMSTA Armchair is handwoven with rattan, bamboo, and wood making it a lasting piece of furniture that's unlikely to age badly. Its curved arms and plushy seat make the HOLMSTA inviting and likely to be a favorite amongst guests. Although individually lovely, this chair would look best paired with a couple of others around a conservatory or lounge.
From wicker-style bed frames to luxurious bar cabinets, there's something here for all styles of homes. These high-end-looking pieces prove that IKEA creates lasting furniture at affordable prices.
