IKEA’s Lab Lounge Was All About Making a Home in Unlikely Spaces

As IKEA prepares to open its 5,800 sqm store on Oxford Street, last week the Swedish furniture brand joined music events agency Lab54 to host a series of housewarming parties for London locals.

Beyond celebrating the arrival of the new store, the pop-up events aimed to explore what young people call home today. While some treat their parents’ house or shared accommodation as their home, its inaugural party – called “Lab Lounge” – pushed perceptions further by showcasing how a neighborhood bistro could provide a place for living, entertaining, and connecting with like-minded communities. Moreover, at a time of rising costs and shifting habits, it emphasized how fun can be made accessible.

For the event, the east London spot was transformed with IKEA’s latest furniture pieces, all of which are set to be sold at the Oxford Street store from May. A small seating area at the entrance comprised plush leather sofas and armchairs as well as a walnut-toned oval coffee table, matching the warm orange hues of the venue. Another cozy corner featured a bed with stacks of pillows where ravers could take a break from the party.

At the back, a space typically used for private dining was cleared of its tables, and a DJ booth was installed in the center, surrounded by plants and strobe lights that signalled the dance floor. Taking their place behind the decks first was hip-hop selector Lola So, followed by Wilfy D. Once crowds were warmed up, local DJ Supa D spun his go-to afro-house tunes, drawing in more people from the chill-out zones.

The night ended with a set from special guest Changing Currents. Originally from Brighton but recently playing nights in Brazil and the Netherlands, the DJ showed how he makes himself at home behind the decks at any given gig – using the universal power of music to connect with crowds.

Check out what went down at last week’s event in the gallery above. To find out more about the opening of IKEA Oxford Street on May 1, head to the retailer’s website now.

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