Guys, remember Ikea has been enshittifying their furniture. Something that was a good buy a few years ago may not be a good buy now. Two examples: the Ivar range and the Hemnes day bed.

We actually got one in December at the local Habitat for Humanity store. We love it. We both have hobbyist-level skills in furniture building, and one of my partner’s hobby-jobs is professional soft goods, upholstery, and reupholstery. So we tend to have high standards when it comes to furniture construction and finish.

While ours was purchased used, it is functionally brand new. The fabric is decently wearing and almost on par with what we would select for a domestic setting. The cushion foam is firm enough, but way lower quality than what we would choose if building from scratch. We estimate about two years of regular, almost daily use before the foam starts to demonstrate visible wear and permanent compression. But foam is “easily” replaceable with a little bit of skill, instructional videos, and diligence.

For reference, I am a muscular 200 pounds and she is a muscular 175 pounds. Some additional throw pillows or back cushions improve the ergonomics and prevent slouching.

Had the kivik for years it was a solid and practical sofa. The lower and wider armrests were helpful when you wanted a nap. Esp when combined with a small pillow. Or just sitting a plate/book on etc.

Overall the cushions held their shape after 10 years. The frame survived 5 moves. If I had purchased new covers I would easily have gotten another 5.

Oh, and if you go with sectional build, definitely have a friend help with assembly. While it can be singlehanded, the frustration level is much lower with an extra set of hands.