Limited housing and compact living space have become a universal problem. The solution is to opt for smart modular solutions to add more in less space, but affordability is another hurdle. IKEA aims to solve these issues by launching three miniature house models in three different cities, namely, Melbourne, Beijing, and Chengdu, as part of the IKEA Open House event.
The IKEA Open House event offers an in-store experience that shows people how smart, affordable solutions can maximize functionality within a compact footprint. This event emphasizes how to improve everyday living in compact houses and provides smart solutions that people can actually afford.
The company partnered with Stockholm-based miniature artist Christopher Robin Nordström to build handcrafted miniature houses, which will be displayed in the above-mentioned cities.
Christopher built each miniature house by hand at a 1:12 scale, where one inch in the model equals 12 inches, or one foot in real life. The individual houses reflect the daily life and culture of the selected cities.
For example, the Melbourne tiny house features a BILLY bookcase holding tiny novels and art prints. Meanwhile, the Chengdu and Beijing miniature houses flaunt tiny METOD kitchens, reflecting the local routines and priorities.
According to Christopher, “When you build in miniature, you can’t include everything. Every object has to earn its place.” He firmly believes a house is not defined by how many furniture items or accessories it contains but by things people choose to keep.
“By helping people keep what matters, put away the things they don’t need every day, and make space for what brings them joy, we want to make home feel easier,” says Javier Quiñones, Global Commercial Manager, Ingka Group (IKEA).
The IKEA Open House is an ongoing two-day event that will go on till 12 September 2026 in official stores. The event will teach people how to organize and declutter their home to improve their daily life without sacrificing essential functionality.
This innovative initiative will help millions use smart, affordable home solutions that once seemed out of reach because of the price tags. You can see some of Christopher’s amazing work on his official Instagram account.