Ikea released a preview of some of the new products, themes and ideas consumers will find in its 2017 catalog next month. The 300-page book, which will be available in print and digital format beginning August 8, marks the home furnishings retailer’s 66th edition (since 1951). The 2017 Ikea catalog will be delivered in 33 languages to 48 markets with an expected reach of 255 million people.

Themed “Goodbye, expectations. Hello you,” this year’s catalog encourages consumers to create a comfortable and secure home according to their own families’ needs and wants, offering tips and solutions to help people live a life “free of traditional expectations.” Customers will also see:

+ A collection of personal stories to show examples of how Ikea connects to different people in different cultures. These include real life stories about how people live in cities around the world, and stories about ongoing projects at Ikea, such as the company’s current and ongoing exploration of furniture made from recycled, low cost paper pulp.

+ The Aug. 8 release of a redesigned and enhanced Ikea catalog app for IOS and Android devices with videos and 3D features, including an augmented reality component that allows users to virtually place and view hundreds of Ikea products in their homes. The company says the new app is more intuitive and easier to navigate than previous versions.

+ More products for green, sustainable and small space living including a collection of functional, flexible and decorative racks, boxes and cubes for apartment renters.

+ Coming in September, the launch of Svartan, a limited edition collaboration with Swedish textile designer Martin Bergstrom. Using only black, white and shades of gray, the collection explores a side of India that goes “beyond the vivid colors usually associated with this striking country.” Inspired from India’s inner-city environments and urban landscapes, Svartan will consist of textiles, paper items, glassware, ceramics and metal objects in subtle textures and abstract patterns. “My idea was to create a modern interpretation of India and its heritage, a country with designs that are perceived in the West as colorful, golden and shiny,” Bergström said.

The catalog PR overview may be accessed here.

(Source: Home Accents Today  Author: Susan Dickenson)