As a professional who spends my days building furniture all over Utrecht, I’ve noticed something interesting. Every neighbourhood has its own unique personality, much like the perfect piece of furniture. Some are classic and a bit complicated, others are modern and modular.
So, just for fun, here’s what I think a few of Utrecht’s districts would be if they were in the IKEA catalogue.
1. Binnenstad is a HEMNES Bookshelf
It’s a timeless classic that everyone wants. It looks beautiful, has a rich history, and fits a lot of character into a small space. It’s solid, but can be a bit complicated to put together and is definitely on the more expensive side.
2. Leidsche Rijn is a PLATSA Modular Storage System
It’s modern, clean, and you can build it up exactly how you want. It was designed from scratch to be practical and efficient, with a special focus on growing families. Some people find it a little generic, but it’s a brilliant, functional, and well-organised solution.
3. Wittevrouwen is a LACK Coffee Table
This neighbourhood is like the LACK table: stylish, compact, and always in high demand. It has that clean, minimalist design that fits perfectly into a cozy space, and it’s a classic for a reason.
4. Oog in Al is a SÖDERHAMN Sofa
This district is the epitome of relaxed living. It’s spacious, comfortable, and perfect for families. It’s got a great mix of laid-back style and is more established than the newer models. It’s the kind of place where you can just stretch out and chill.
5. Overvecht is an IVAR Shelving Unit
It’s a strong, no-frills foundation with a ton of untapped potential. It’s incredibly versatile and a bit rough around the edges, but if you put in the work to customize it and make it your own, it can be absolutely brilliant. It’s practical, sturdy, and a true blank canvas.
What do you think? Did I get it right?