According to the United Nations, 55% of the world currently lives in urban areas and that number is expected to reach 68% by 2050. This leaves housing and living space at an all-time premium. The demand for smart living solutions has never been greater– enter IKEA and robotic furniture.
IKEA has long been known for the functionality of its furniture so it’s no surprise the challenge of creating more efficient living solutions was high on their list of priorities. To do that, IKEA tells Parentology they had to answer the question, “How can you utilize the square meters of your home in a better way without compromising on either function or your dreams?”
Part of the answer came in the form of American start-up, Ori. Founded by engineers as the product of MIT research, Ori was founded in 2015 and launched its first pieces of robotic furniture into the market just two years ago. When IKEA was looking for spatial solutions, Ori seemed like a logical partner.
Global Impact
“Mass urbanization is accelerating and creates heavily populated cities that are at the same time consuming both land and resources at an unsustainable pace,” IKEA tells Parentology. The introduction of ROGNAN, the collaboration of IKEA and Ori, is a potential solution to the problem of sustainability.
Ori – One Room. A Hundred Ways. from Ori on Vimeo.
The ROGNAN unit is a singular piece that can be transformed into a bedroom, closet, living or work space. The unit is controlled by a robotic touch pad that plugs in to any electrical outlet. With a push of a button individuals will be able to customize their space for the task at hand. The ROGNAN is easily assembled and disassembled so consumers can take it with them if they move.
The Swedish-based company has made many innovative changes lately, including making their furniture safer for kids, and ergonomic accessories for gamers. With ROGNAN, Ikea feels that by producing and marketing this innovative furniture they’ll be making a positive impact. “IKEA wants to create a better everyday life for the many people, enabling them to create their dream homes in small spaces.”
By partnering with a leader in the robotic furniture space, IKEA is utilizing its distribution and marketing to bring sustainable, innovative living solutions to the masses now and in the future.