IKEA’s wildly popular VARMBLIXT Doughnut Lamp, a social media sensation known for its retro design and warm glow, is getting a high-tech makeover in 2026. The new version will feature smart capabilities, allowing users to control the color and brightness of the light directly from their smartphones.
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The Original Viral Sensation 🍩
First released in collaboration with designer Sabine Marcelis, the original VARMBLIXT lamp quickly became an Instagram favorite. Its curved shape and soft light made it an instant hit, selling for around £55. The lamp’s popularity showed how design trends could spread rapidly through social media, turning even simple lighting into a must-have item.
Smart Home Integration 🏡
The smart upgrade is part of IKEA’s broader push into affordable smart home technology. The Swedish retailer announced plans last year to launch 20 smart home products, including a recently released £25 air quality sensor. This move makes smart home features accessible to a wider audience, breaking down the barrier of high costs.
Design Evolution 🎨
The updated VARMBLIXT retains its iconic doughnut shape but swaps the glossy orange finish for a matte white exterior. This change isn’t just aesthetic; it’s functional. The matte surface better complements the new light feature, which allows for dynamic color control.
Color Control and Customization 🌈
The smart lamp cycles through 12 preset colors, curated by Marcelis herself. These include different white temperatures, amber, warm red, soft pink, lavender, turquoise, and gentle yellow tones. Users can adjust brightness and temperature via a BILRESA remote or the IKEA Home Smart App, integrating with other Matter-compatible systems.
“We spent a lot of time fine-tuning the transitions between the curated colors. What makes this lamp unique is that switching between colors is not a sudden change, but a very smooth journey through all the hues to get to the next color.” – Sabine Marcelis.
A Natural Technical Progression ✨
Marcelis emphasizes that the upgrade focuses on enhancing the light experience itself. The matte finish allows the light to glow softly from within, a subtle but significant change from the glossy original. This evolution highlights how technology can improve the fundamental qualities of design, rather than just adding features.
IKEA’s smart home range is quickly establishing itself as an easy, affordable entry point into the world of smart ecosystems. The updated VARMBLIXT lamp is expected to be another big hit, showcasing the brand’s continued innovation.
The VARMBLIXT upgrade demonstrates how brands can leverage existing popularity to expand into new tech areas, making smart home features accessible without compromising on design.
