IKEA hacka kitchen concept optimized for user hack-ability

IKEA hacka kitchen concept optimized for user hack-ability
all images courtesy of IKEA hacka

in 2013, IKEA launched ‘kitchen revolution 2025’. together with IDEO, lund university’s school of industrial design, and eindhoven’s university of technology, the project aimed to investigate the future needs and aesthetics of kitchens. the first-year masters candidates were asked to explore user behaviors concerning food production, then create based on those needs.

lund university students linus hagberg, philipp süssmann, and niklas papen found their solution in the constantly evolving life-hacking trend. starting with the modular system of well, anything, users are increasingly wanting to change, add, and get rid of unneeded features and components. 

the exhibition kitchen features an eclectic range of styles and appliances

with this mentality in mind, the group created the ‘ikea hacka’ kitchen. the system is based around a modular frame consisting of standard sized wooden beams held together with metal joints. when combined, they form a structure to which appliances, cabinets, surfaces etc. are added. custom sizes and compositions allow an unrestricted flexibility that can be further individualized with 3rd party products, and second hand/self-made goods. 

to create or modify, beams are simply cut to desired lengths and reassembled. measuring guides on the wood — and a custom made saw/drill tool — ensure ease of use for any do-it-yourselfer. the team hopes the hack-friendly system will spark imaginative thinking, leading to creative, unique solutions. since 2013, hagberg, süssmann, and papen have continued to collaborate with IKEA to develop a prototype –along with jon karlsson emerzon & anna carlsson — which was displayed during milan design week 2015 at IKEA temporary. 

‘out-of-the-grid’ provides freedom to move away from industry standard sizes of appliances and cabinets

‘office’ — seamless integration of the kitchen with other areas in the home

‘outdoor’ — minimal, low-tech and durable

3-beam joint commonly used to build a corner

sawing and drilling are made easier with a provided, custom-made tool

building and tinkering

the system consists of wooden beams held together by different metal joints

beams have a subtle measuring guide to inspire and make hacking easier

flexibility of the structure allows for additions of a variety of products, including but not limited to IKEA

designboom has received this project through its ‘DIY submissions’ feature, which welcomes readers to submit their own work for publication. see more designboom readers submissions here.