Get ready to transform your space with a lighting experience like no other—IKEA has just unveiled a smart version of its iconic 'donut lamp,' and it's set to redefine how we think about ambient lighting. But here's where it gets exciting: this isn't just about flipping a switch; it's about a seamless, almost magical transition between colors that turns your room into a living canvas. Announced at CES 2026, the IKEA Varmblixt is a collaboration with Dutch artist and designer Sabine Marcelis, and it's poised to become a must-have for anyone looking to blend art with functionality in their home.
What sets the Varmblixt apart is its ability to glide effortlessly between hues, creating a smooth, almost hypnotic journey rather than abrupt color changes. Available as both a wall light and a table lamp, this smart lamp starts at $99 and will hit the shelves in April 2026. And this is the part most people miss—when paired with the IKEA Home Smart app, you can choose from over 40 shades, adjust brightness, and even fine-tune the dimming to match any mood or occasion.
Marcelis herself highlights the lamp's unique appeal: 'We spent a lot of time perfecting the transitions between colors. The light doesn’t just jump—it evolves, slowly transforming the atmosphere of the room.' Imagine your space shifting from a warm sunset orange to a calming midnight blue, all without a jarring break in the ambiance. But here's the controversial part: while some will love the lamp's artistic flair, others might argue it’s overkill for everyday lighting. What do you think? Is this the future of home lighting, or just a flashy gimmick?
For those who want more, IKEA is also launching a smart version of its $149 Varmblixt pendant light, focusing on nuanced transitions within white light. Both options are built on the Matter standard, ensuring seamless integration with your existing smart home setup. And let’s not forget—IKEA’s recent announcement of 21 new smart home gadgets signals a bold leap into the smart home market. Are they poised to dominate, or is this just another player in an already crowded field?
We’ll be among the first to test the Varmblixt before its April 2026 release, so stay tuned for our hands-on review. In the meantime, let us know in the comments—would you swap your current lighting for this color-shifting marvel? Or do you prefer to keep things simple? The debate is open!
