IKEA has unveiled The Growroom, a revolutionary open-source design for a multi-tiered spherical garden that can help communities grow their own food sustainably. Unlike IKEA’s traditional flat-pack furniture, The Growroom is not something you can buy in a box. Instead, IKEA has made the design plans available for free, allowing anyone with the right tools and materials to build their own. This initiative aims to inspire local communities to embrace urban farming and promote self-sustainability.
What is The Growroom?
The Growroom is a stunning, dome-shaped structure that can be used to grow fresh vegetables, herbs, and other plants in a compact space. Designed by SPACE10, IKEA’s innovation lab, this spherical garden is built to maximize space efficiency while allowing sunlight and water to reach all plants. It is large enough to support an entire neighborhood’s food supply while also serving as a peaceful green retreat.
Why Did IKEA Make the Plans Free?
IKEA’s decision to release The Growroom as an open-source project is part of a broader movement toward sustainability and community-driven solutions. By making the plans accessible to everyone, IKEA hopes to encourage people to take action in growing their own food, reducing their environmental footprint, and fostering stronger local communities. The initiative aligns with the increasing global interest in urban gardening and self-sufficiency.
How to Build The Growroom
Building The Growroom requires some basic tools and materials. Here’s what you need:
- Plywood sheets
- Rubber hammers
- Metal screws
- A workshop or access to a cutting service
- Dedication to follow the 17-step assembly process
Unlike traditional IKEA products that arrive pre-cut and ready for assembly, The Growroom requires users to download the blueprint and cut the plywood pieces themselves. To ensure precision, IKEA encourages builders to visit a local workshop where professionals can cut the pieces to size. Once the pieces are ready, assembling the structure is a straightforward process that follows the step-by-step guide provided in the free plans.
Why You Should Build One
- Sustainability – Growing your own food reduces reliance on mass-produced crops and lowers your carbon footprint.
- Community Building – The Growroom can serve as a shared space where neighbors collaborate and connect.
- Aesthetic Appeal – The unique spherical design adds a modern and eco-friendly touch to any space.
- Cost-Effective – With free design plans and affordable materials, building The Growroom is a budget-friendly way to start urban gardening.
- Health Benefits – Having fresh produce at your fingertips ensures healthier eating habits and a stronger connection to nature.
Get Started Today
If you’re passionate about sustainability, urban gardening, or simply want a stunning green space in your backyard, The Growroom is a perfect project to take on. Download the free plans today and start building your own neighborhood garden!
