How IKEA Is Leveraging BIM
Sustainability and Innovation in the Construction Industry
In today’s world, both national and global companies are working on crucial aspects of the construction sector. One of the most important is sustainability—a term often associated with the pursuit of a greener world, as well as the improvement of manufacturing processes and responsible actions toward the planet and society.
On the other hand, innovation has become a key driver in recent years. It’s no longer just about setting trends; it’s about creating groundbreaking solutions that have never been seen before. Today, nearly every company, across industries and sectors, strives to define itself through these two concepts, demonstrating their commitment to a more efficient, responsible, and technology-driven future.
The IKEA Case: A Benchmark in Sustainability and Innovation
Among these companies, IKEA stands out as a brand that, for decades, has established itself as a leader in the design, manufacturing, distribution, and sale of its own products. Beyond its commercial success, IKEA has positioned itself as a reference point for sustainability and innovation.
Some of its most ambitious initiatives include:
Prefabricated Homes
IKEA has developed prefabricated homes that are stylish, sustainable, and affordable. These housing solutions aim to provide accessible living options without compromising on design or environmental responsibility.
The Urban Village Project
Another standout initiative is The Urban Village Project, which seeks to reinvent urban communities. The goal is to create sustainable housing solutions that address today’s societal needs while promoting collaborative and responsible living.
Affordable Modular Housing
The company is also working on affordable modular housing, offering an innovative alternative to traditional construction methods. These solutions respond to the global need for housing that is cost-effective, quick to build, and environmentally friendly.
BIM Methodology as a Catalyst for Change at IKEA
With these projects, IKEA promotes a collaborative approach alongside other international companies, aiming to meet people’s needs without relying on traditional construction methods. In this context, Building Information Modeling (BIM) emerges as a key tool that IKEA has already implemented in several processes—with promising results.
Some of the practical applications of BIM within IKEA include:
- Digital Furniture Catalog: IKEA has developed a digital catalog that includes furniture components ready to be downloaded and integrated into BIM digital models. This allows architects and designers to create personalized spaces with ease.
- Store Design: The company uses BIM to create detailed 3D models of its stores, optimizing both the design and layout of commercial spaces, and enhancing the overall customer experience.
- Inventory Management: BIM enables IKEA to improve inventory management and warehouse logistics, providing more precise control over products and resources.
- Customer Space Customization: Thanks to BIM models, IKEA could offer customers the ability to visualize and customize their spaces before making a purchase—taking user experience to a whole new level of personalization and realism.
- Sustainability Optimization: BIM helps IKEA optimize material usage and reduce the environmental impact of its buildings and products, aligning with the company’s sustainability objectives.
Conclusion
IKEA’s implementation of BIM reflects its strong commitment to innovation, sustainability, and continuous improvement. Through this methodology, the company has optimized processes, reduced costs, and significantly enhanced the customer experience. In a world where digitalization and sustainability are shaping the future of construction and design, one question remains: Is IKEA fully harnessing the potential of BIM in its projects?