STRÅLA train

As it gets darker outside, it is only natural to seek more light. Last year, IKEA lit up a whole house, placing a STRÅLA star in every window. This year, we take it a step further... literally. By decorating a whole train, we aim to bring light to more neighborhoods and to show the Scandinavian tradition of decorating with light as a symbol of hope for lighter days. A beacon of light in the autumn dark, this train carries the festive spirit and brings joy, lighting the way home.

A star for every window

The idea for decoration is as simple as it is timeless and festive. The STRÅLA stars that seem oversized when compared to windows, create a clear statement and just the right amount of festive magic. Viewed from the end of the car, they frame the sides, making the car appear as a bright way home. Their warm glow reminds of the light that will come again after the winter and soothes with its coziness.

"This time, we decided to decorate a whole car of a train. The stars in the window will light up to create a first hint of this festive surprise that will be even seen from outside. Inside, other decorative items shall be added to boost the atmosphere, like garlands and wrapped presents."

STRÅLA stars

STRÅLA means a source of light or a ray of light in Swedish. It is a Scandinavian tradition to bring light into home at the darkest time of the year, and this atmosphere of coziness has been recreated also in the STRÅLA train. A star is a symbol of hope and also of wishes come true. It never fails to create a festive atmosphere in winter time. STRÅLA stars can be hung or used with a base as table lamps.

Table setup for outdoor celebrations

When visiting the participants of last seasons of "Home idea with IKEA", the designer decides to surprise some of them with extraordinary ideas for table setup outside from home. She suggests using shades of red as it instantly creates festive mood and a lot of lighting decorations which has not only a decorative but also a practical function as it gets dark outside.

Tips & tricks for a festive table

IKEA Interior Designer Elīna advises using a lot of light and natural materials when setting up a table for outdoor celebrations or even celebrations at home. A simple red tablecloth can go a long way to create the right atmosphere, and some pine cones combined with LED garlands add a nice, natural touch.

Christmas treats

Designer suggests using simple white tableware to accentuate the festive mood and to think about texture and colors when preparing snacks. Why not serve them in a tray that has multiple levels? Thus, snacks will be visible better and need less space. A good idea is to order all serving plates on a table runner thus creating an area for serving and an area for eating.

Good old times

"Home idea with IKEA" visits participants from the last seasons to see how they are living with their new interior. Designer Elīna sees it as a good possibility to set up a nice table outside and sit together, reminiscing about the makeover.

How to cozy up a room

To prepare home for celebrations, it is enough to add some accessories. Designer Elīna suggests to work with lighting once again, to add some decorative lighting that creates the right mood. At times, the general lighting can be turned off to just enjoy the peace and quiet with the mood lighting.

Cozy tableware

Celebrationis all about feeling festive in your heart. Don't be afraid to use bold color contrasts if that is what means celebration for you. Here, the designer has combined red and dark blue which may seem unusual at first, but creates great harmony.

Decoration for inside & out

When decorating windows, you have to think about how it'll look from outside too. It is better, if the decorations are a bit higher, like the STRÅLA stars on a base, as they are visible from outside.