Written by: Jin Fujisaki / Published: 2026-02-18
In 2023, the "Varmblixt" collection vanished from IKEA stores worldwide in the blink of an eye. Designed by Netherlands-based designer Sabine Marcelis, the series felt less like lighting fixtures and more like "luminous glass objets d'art." Now, in 2026, the long-awaited second installment (or evolution) has finally arrived.
The theme this time is "flowing light." In addition to the wildly popular orange glass from the previous release, the new collection introduces a more grown-up palette including "Smoke Grey" and "Deep Amber." When switched on, light refracts through the varying thicknesses of the glass, casting beautiful ripples across the walls. Just by placing one in a room, the white walls of a rental apartment transform into a gallery. Acquiring something with the presence of designer furniture at IKEA's price point (a few thousand to ten-something thousand yen) is nothing short of miraculous.
| The Iconic "Donut" Goes Mini: Freedom in Wall-Mounting
image IKEA
The "donut-shaped lamp" that became Varmblixt's signature has evolved as well. The previous model had a commanding 30 cm diameter, but the 2026 lineup introduces a "Mini Donut" at just 15 cm in diameter. This makes it suitable for cramped desktops or that little sliver of space on a bedside table.
Furthermore, the rear hook structure has been redesigned, making it easy to wall-mount even on the plasterboard walls of a rental. Arrange several at random to create "dots of light," or set one beside a mirror to use as a makeup light. Even the cord has been elevated into part of the design, so it functions as a charming piece of décor even during daytime hours when it's switched off.
| The Moment You Sip Water Becomes Art: Sensual Glassware
image IKEA
Varmblixt isn't just about lighting. The glassware (tableware), engineered around the question of "how light passes through," is also a must-see. Champagne coupes, carafes, bowls. With thick bases and razor-thin rims, these glass vessels gather light like a lens when filled with a drink.
Sipping water by the window in the morning. That simple act is transformed into a beautiful ritual as the shadow of the glass falls upon the table. Dishwasher-safe in its practicality, yet possessing the taut tension of a delicate work of craftsmanship. In IKEA's tableware section, these pieces radiate such an aura that the very air around them seems to differ from the rest.
| Finally, "Smart Home" Compatible: Light That Flickers via App
image Gizmodo
The biggest update in the 2026 model is full compatibility with IKEA's smart home hub, "DIRIGERA." Previously, you had to buy separate smart bulbs to install, but this time the built-in LEDs themselves support Zigbee communication.
You can of course adjust brightness in 1% increments via smartphone app or voice control, and switching to "Candle Mode" makes the light flicker irregularly, just like a flame. The refraction through the glass combined with a wavering light source. The fusion of these two elements creates a relaxing effect, as though you're gazing at a real fire. It's the ultimate lighting gadget for setting the mood during "the hour before sleep."
| Conclusion: Don't Lose to Resellers. Run on Release Day.
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Lamps start at 6,999 yen, and small glass items start at 1,999 yen. These are works that would cost ten times as much if you bought them at a designer's solo exhibition—and they're priced like this. Naturally, a frenzied scramble is once again unavoidable.
"I want to change the mood of my room, but swapping out the furniture is a hassle." If that sounds like you, try placing just one Varmblixt piece in your home. Simply by shifting the color temperature of the light, you'll feel the perceived warmth of the room rise by two degrees, and the comfort level transform dramatically. This isn't a lighting fixture. It's a ticket to buy yourself "happy hours."
