IKEA's new 'open source' sofa is designed to be customised by owners

The long-anticipated result of a partnership with industrial designer Tom Dixon is about to hit stores in Europe

British designer Tom Dixon’s portfolio is an eclectic one, including everything from high-concept paperweights to masculine scented candles. But his recent collaboration with Swedish furniture retailer IKEA might be one of his most fascinating: the design of a modular sofa with seemingly endless combinations and configurations.

Well, not endless. Bloomberg asked IKEA to total the number of ways Delaktig’s many components—which include one,- two-, and three-seater couches; two different chaise lounges; back and armrests; and lamp and side table attachments—could be assembled. They came back with a real meatball of a number: 97.

But, the brand contends, there may be even more