A discussion exploring atmospheric lighting to mark the launch of a new Sabine Marcelis collection and the reveal of IKEA's new print range in collaboration with Marimekko are some of the highlights on the second day of IKEA Festival, which Dezeen is partnering with during Milan design week.

IKEA Festival takes place over six days in Milan and includes the brand's latest product and collaboration news in addition to a range of Democratic Design talks and exhibitions.

Find out about the full programme here and read on for some highlights from today's programme.

IKEA and Marimekko collaborate to explore Nordic sauna culture
10:00am Milan time

IKEA has developed a new collection of prints called Bastua with Finnish printmaking brand Marimekko, which are informed by the self-caring rituals of the Nordic sauna culture.

The first of four patterns in the Bastua collection will be revealed during the talk, which will be seen on the first product to be released – a playful shower curtain made from recycled polyester. The pattern is informed by large rhubarb leaves which "can often seen growing next to sauna buildings in the Finnish countryside".

IKEA and Marikmekko will discuss the new collection and speakers include Marimekko creative director Rebecca Bay, IKEA of Sweden designer Mikael Axelsson and IKEA of Sweden range and design leader Henrik Most.

IKEA and Sabine Marcelis explore the importance of atmosphere and lighting
11:00am Milan time

This session will focus on IKEA's new lighting range called Varmblixt made in collaboration with designer Sabine Marcelis.
The collection is designed to explore how light can transform interiors. The lights are designed to be sculptural objects that enhance the appearance of a room whenever they are placed. When turned on, they are designed to "emit a warm light that changes the look and feel of your room".

During the talk, two products will be revealed, while the rest of the collection will be launched within the coming year. Marcelis will discuss her practice as artist and designer and discuss her collaborative journey with IKEA. Speakers include Sabine Marcelis; Henrik Most; and range and design manager lighting Anna Granath.

Presentation New and Wild Ideas: Unveiling the winner of the IKEA Open Design Competition
14:00pm Milan time

This session will reveal the winner of the IKEA Open Design Competition. Design students were asked to create a natural shelter that would protect them in the wilderness.

The winning student will share their creative vision and process. Speakers include the winner of the competition, chief creative officer from Ingka Group Marcus Engman; and architect from Spacon & X, Nikoline Dyrup.

Democratic Design Talk. Design to make a difference
14:30pm Milan time

IKEA design manager Johan Ejdemo will discuss the process of product development in IKEA's factory and the challenges of the changing values in the home and how this defines the future of design at IKEA.

Hands on: Join the workshop with IKEA Designers
15:00pm Milan time

The workshop is an opportunity for visitors to experience prototyping with IKEA designers. Visitors can explore the democratic design philosophy behind how IKEA creates "beautiful, functional, sustainable and affordable products".

Evening / Performances by Axel Boman and JAMIE XX.
20:00pm Milan time

Swedish producer and DJ Axel Boman will perform on stage offering the public a mix of his playful house music. Afterwards there will be an electronic music performance by London DJ JAMIE XX.

Dezeen is a partner for IKEA Festival and will be publishing video highlights from the festival throughout the week.

IKEA Festival takes place from 6 to 12 June 2022 at BASE, Via Bergognone 34, 20144 Milan, as part of Milan design week 2022. See our Milan design week 2022 guide on Dezeen Events Guide for information about the many other exhibitions, installations and talks taking place throughout the week.

Dezeen x IKEA Festival

This article was written by Dezeen for IKEA as part of a partnership. Find out more about Dezeen partnership content here.