How long has IKEA been building houses?
IKEA has been building houses since 1997 through its development company BoKlok, a joint venture between IKEA and construction firm Skanska. IKEA describe their homes as 'functional and inviting' and as most of the building process takes place within their factory, the process is both quick and environmentally friendly.
How many houses has IKEA built?
IKEA has built a little over 11,000 homes throughout Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Norway and production of their first UK-bound modular homes was planned to start in 2021.
How do you buy an IKEA house?
IKEA is looking to expand its house building in the UK through its development company BoKlok. Their website states 'We are expanding in the UK and are looking for land. We make it possible for people with average incomes to realise their dream of owning a home of their own'. Currently, BoKlok is looking to work with UK landowners and developers in order to develop communities, with their website stating 'BoKlok is a homeownership concept, developed by Skanska and IKEA. Together we develop residential communities for people who want to live in a home of their own'.
The best way to get your hands on an IKEA home right now is to speak to your local council and convince them to start the consultation process with BoKlok.
When will IKEA houses be available to buy in the UK?
Worthing Council had originally agreed to build up to 162 new IKEA homes and they were hoping that they would be ready to move into by 2021. However, owing to delays caused by the pandemic and other external factors, IKEA decided it no longer wished to progress with the planned development and subsequently pulled out.
BoKlok is actively seeking further UK sites to develop in the coming years.
How much does an IKEA house cost?
The cost is yet unknown however IKEA's modular homes are understood to be considerably cheaper than a traditionally built house. BoKlok's website states, 'We have scrutinised our costs and trimmed them to the bone. But we never compromise on quality. You will get tiles in the bathroom, a large IKEA kitchen, nice floors and stone windows'.
Is modular housing the answer for first-time buyers?
Modular housing isn't a new concept, with many new-build projects seeking the services of expert prefabricated house-builders, however, this is the first time that a council has considered a prefabricated solution in order to provide affordable housing and assist cash strapped first-time buyers. There are many obvious advantages; the speed, the impact on the environment and the lower cost for first-time buyers to name but a few, but are flat-packed houses really the answer? Council's will be keeping a close eye on the developments on the south coast and if it is deemed a success, we could see BoKlok realising their dream of developing further residential communities in the UK. In the meantime, if you are a first-time buyer and interested in getting onto the property ladder then read our first-time buyer guide.
