IKEA Brings Back the Iconic 1970s Guide Shelf: Meet the Byakorre!

IKEA has announced the re-release of some of its most celebrated vintage designs from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, including the Guide shelf by Niels Gammelgaard. This iconic piece, originally launched in 1978, is now rebranded as Byakorre and is part of IKEA's sixth Nytillverkad collection, which features ten reissued designs alongside new versions of other classic pieces.

The Guide shelf, known for its light galvanised steel frame, offers practical customization options, making it a favorite among collectors and modernist design enthusiasts, especially popular on TikTok. The shelves are reversible, presenting a white finish on one side and anthracite grey on the other, with edges available in various bright colors.

Gammelgaard's design was inspired by the ability to change laminate board colors at no extra cost, which also improved packaging efficiency. Despite its original retail price of just €65 (£54), the Guide shelf can now command prices upwards of £800 on resale sites.

In addition to the Byakorre, the collection includes two reissued chairs: the Mofalla (previously known as Cox) and the Skålboda lounge chair. The Mofalla is a foldable metal-and-canvas chair, while Skålboda features a powder-coated steel mesh design that is now available in white, resembling its original finish.

Gammelgaard, who has designed furniture for notable brands such as Fritz Hansen and Cappellini, emphasizes that great design should be affordable and accessible to many. He noted that the ongoing popularity of these designs, even 50 years later, reflects their durability and timelessness.

Other highlights from the latest Nytillverkad collection include Lundgren's Tajt chair, now called Vårkumla, and the Guttane side table, a modern take on the classic Novette bench. All ten reissued products will be available globally from February 2025.

This revival not only showcases IKEA's commitment to sustainable design but also celebrates the rich history of furniture design that resonates across generations. The collection also includes textiles and glass vases, reaffirming the timeless appeal and functionality of these designs.