The Best Thing in IKEA's New Summer Collection Is . . .
Despite the fact that it typically takes us 24 hours to recover from a trip to IKEA, we're still always excited to flip through the store's latest catalog to find something we didn't know we needed until that moment. The current issue, Summer 2019, introduces a new outdoor collection featuring kitschy, retro prints and juicy hues that make you really miss when your weather app read 80 degrees. Despite the cacophony of color and pattern on every page, one particular set of products stood out, which we quickly deemed the best thing in the whole catalog: the SOLVINDEN outdoor lamps (which happen to be online and in stores today). Here's why . . .
The SOLVINDEN floor lamp features a lipstick-red polka-dot shade, while the SOLVINDEN table lamp comes in marigold-and-white stripes. They're essentially brother and sister in the Quirky Outdoor Lighting family. Here's where it gets really good: Both feature energy-saving LED bulbs, powder-coated metal bases, insanely affordable prices ($40 and $20, respectively), and—get ready for it—zero cords or plugs.
Instead, batteries power the fixtures, recharged via a hidden solar panel positioned in the top center of the lamp, right above the bulb. Eco-friendly design for the win! Which, by the way, does not equal less effective design. When fully charged (IKEA says recharging takes nine to 12 hours in full sun), the lamps will glow for eight hours straight. Meaning there's a good chance they'll outlast even the rowdiest dinner party guest. So, are you going to IKEA this weekend or what?
