IKEA redesigns iconic blue bag to create a plush, portable pillow

resten bag debuts with a drowsy design

In an imaginative twist on one of its most iconic products, IKEA Singapore has unveiled the Resten bag, a novel reimagining of the beloved blue Frakta bag into an on-the-go pillow. With its signature blue hue and utilitarian design, Frakta has been a staple in IKEA’s product lineup for years, celebrated for its durability and versatility. Now, IKEA Singapore is offering a new take on this classic by transforming it into a cozy pillow, ideal for those much-needed moments of rest.

The Resten bag retains the familiar shape and bold blue hue of the original Frakta bag but adds a layer of cushy comfort designed for naps on the go. Functioning as both a pillow and a carry-all bag, the Resten aims to meet the needs of Singapore’s sleep-deprived citizens. Simply unzip the bag, fold it out, and enjoy a quick snooze, whether you’re at the park, on public transportation, or at work. Once rested, users can fold the bag back into its original shape and use it to carry your belongings, making it a multifunctional addition to any IKEA fan’s collection.

images © IKEA Singapore, The Secret Little Agency

ikea designers address public health concern

This pillow-bag hybrid from IKEA Singapore is more than just a playful redesign — the Resten has been conceived by IKEA Singapore to addresses a growing public health concern. According to a global YouGov study, Singapore is one of the most sleep-deprived countries in the world, with 54% of Singaporeans reporting they get six hours of sleep or less per night. This chronic lack of sleep can affect productivity, mental health, and overall well-being.

The introduction of the Resten bag reflects IKEA’s commitment to creating products that cater to everyday needs. By blending functionality with comfort, IKEA aims to provide an affordable solution to a widespread problem. The Resten bag serves as a portable reminder of the importance of rest, inviting users to take a break and recharge.

IKEA Singapore debuts the Resten bag, a reimagining of its iconic blue Frakta bag

conceptualized by the secret little agency

Singapore-based creative studio The Secret Little Agency worked with IKEA to conceptualize the Resten Bag. Chief Creative Officers Nicholas Ye and Mavis Neo comment: ‘With the entire country running on overtime, rest is often sought in unconventional places, and we saw the opportunity to bring comfort to the busy lives of Singaporeans by creating the world’s most ‘rest-able’ bag for one of the world’s most rest-less countries.’

Despite the convenience and comfort the Resten bag offers, it’s essential to remain mindful of where and when we choose to nap. While grabbing a few minutes of rest can be beneficial, especially in a busy urban context, being cautious about sleeping in public spaces is wise for safety reasons. IKEA’s Resten bag is a great tool for relaxation and it should be used with consideration of one’s surroundings.

the Resten bag functions as both a tote and a pillow, offering versatility for those on the go