Seven social businesses across Asia are creating home accessories for a new collection that is launching in Ikea stores globally from June.
The MÄVINN collection of home accessories includes baskets, rugs, a lampshade, an apron, bags, cushion covers, a wall organiser and more. The products were created sustainably using leftover denim, natural fibres and handwoven textiles. The majority of the materials will be sourced where the accessories are being made in Bangladesh, India, Thailand, and Vietnam.
The Ikea designers explain that they wanted the products to have the unique qualities of items you might find on your travels whilst wandering around a local artisanal market. "Our initial idea was to emphasise craftsmanship and bring the person who made the product to the forefront. This led us to think about the experience of visiting a local craft market: the interesting objects you might find there and the people selling their crafts”, says Paulin Machado, who is an Ikea designer. “Every item has a distinctive look and rustic feel of a handpicked item, blending colourful splashes with natural materials through embroidery and woven designs where their handmade nature gives its uniqueness”.
Ikea has been collaborating with local businesses since 2012. It now works with more than 11 social businesses around the world.
