If you ever ventured into the room of a dedicated gamer, you'll probably notice a few staples: a huge television, a cool keyboard, neon lights protruding around a gaming system, and (for some reason) a very ugly chair. Gaming chairs have to be comfortable to sit in for long periods of time and, too often, that means they're not particularly chic. IKEA is changing that.
The home store just launched its newest collection celebrating gaming, aiming to redefine the whole experience and aesthetic. According to a press release from IKEA, BRÄNNBOLL, which launches in September, “honors the world’s largest hobby, gaming.” Like with most IKEA collections, these pieces combine functionality with style and affordability.
“The multi-functional range of furniture, storage solutions and accessories are designed to move around, adapt to different spaces, improve the gaming experience, and support everyday scenarios beyond gameplay,” the press release said.
IKEA
The collection features 20 pieces, with everything you need for an ultimate gaming set up. Some of the items are multifunctional, like the basket you can use as both a movable self-standing table andstorage unit, and a gaming station complete with a foldable tabletop and integrated PC tower storage. For more space solutions, you'll find a wall-mounted cabinet, a castor on wheels, and a side table. The accessories range from a mouse pad to a cozy rug and throw blanket. And of course, there's a gaming chair, but it's not what you would expect: IKEA's is inflatable.
“With BRÄNNBOLL, we are embracing the idea that gaming is for everyone and belongs everywhere in the home," said Philip Dilé, product design developer of IKEA Sweden, in a blog post. "It's about making it simple for people to create spaces that adapt to gaming, living, and everything in between. We hope this collection will encourage friends and families to engage together, bringing joy and connection through shared gaming experiences.”
IKEA
The BRÄNNBOLL lineup was designed to challenge traditional gaming aesthetics, which tend to lean toward harsh black leather and neon lights only. It still maintains some of the classic elements, like those vibrant colors and elements inspired by street sports and athleisure. These creations land somewhere in the middle, blending the energy of the games with the comfort of the lifestyle.
“Drawing inspiration from how people move when they play video games, I wanted to create a chair that activates the player, to enhance this interaction," David Wahl, designer at IKEA Sweden, said in the blog post. "This connection between the player and the game can hopefully lead to a more engaging and immersive experience."