The IKEA NÄMMARÖ and ÄPPLARÖ outdoor furniture series cater to different aesthetics and needs. NÄMMARÖ features a modern, Scandinavian-minimalist look with clean lines and is generally more budget-friendly, while ÄPPLARÖ offers a rustic, country-inspired style using natural wood that's more durable but at a slightly higher price point.
Here's everything you need to know to choose the right outdoor collection from IKEA for your patio, balcony, or garden.
IKEA NÄMMARÖ Series
The NÄMMARÖ series is IKEA's answer to modern, minimalist outdoor living on a budget. Characterized by its clean lines and functional design, this collection is perfect for creating a sleek, contemporary feel in smaller outdoor spaces like urban balconies and patios. It prioritizes affordability and ease of assembly without sacrificing a stylish, functional aesthetic.
- What it is: A collection of outdoor furniture including tables, chairs, and benches designed with a modern, Scandinavian look.
- Key features: Flat-pack design for easy transport, lightweight construction, simple and clean lines, easy to maintain surfaces.
- Price: Budget-friendly, with most individual pieces ranging from $50 to $200.
- Style: Scandinavian minimalist, functional, and contemporary.
- Materials/Construction: Primarily made from engineered wood, plastic, and metal components treated for outdoor durability.
- Pros: Highly affordable, chic and modern design, lightweight and easy to move or store, perfect for small spaces, simple assembly.
- Cons: Materials are less premium than solid wood, may show wear faster than more expensive options if left in harsh weather consistently.
NÄMMARÖ is ideal for renters, first-time homeowners, or anyone seeking a stylish, contemporary outdoor setup without a big investment.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/search/?q=n%C3%A4mmar%C3%B6
IKEA ÄPPLARÖ Series
The ÄPPLARÖ series has been a long-standing favorite for those wanting a warm, rustic, and natural feel for their outdoor spaces. Built with solid acacia wood, it offers a timeless, country-inspired look that is both durable and inviting. Its modular design allows for customization, making it a versatile choice for everything from small patios to expansive garden dining areas.
- What it is: A rustic outdoor furniture line featuring dining tables, benches, modular sofas, storage, and planters made from natural wood.
- Key features: Solid wood construction, modular pieces for flexible configurations, pre-treated for weather resistance, classic slatted design.
- Price: Affordable, with pieces generally ranging from $70 to $250.
- Style: Rustic, natural, country-inspired, and warm.
- Materials/Construction: Made from solid acacia wood with a weather-resistant finish. Requires occasional re-staining to maintain its appearance and durability.
- Pros: Durable and weather-resistant solid wood, timeless and inviting aesthetic, modular system allows for high customization, feels more substantial and premium.
- Cons: Slightly more expensive than NÄMMARÖ, heavier and more difficult to move, requires periodic re-staining to prevent weathering.
ÄPPLARÖ is better suited for homeowners who want a durable, cozy, and customizable outdoor setup and prefer the classic look of real wood.
Shop this product: ikea.com/us/en/search/?q=%C3%A4pplar%C3%B6
NÄMMARÖ vs. ÄPPLARÖ Comparison
Materials & Durability
The core difference between these two collections lies in their materials. The NÄMMARÖ uses a mix of engineered wood, plastic, and metal, which makes it lightweight and easy to clean but potentially less durable in the face of harsh, prolonged exposure to sun and rain. It’s a great choice for covered patios or for those who store their furniture during the off-season.
The ÄPPLARÖ is crafted from solid acacia, a hardwood known for its natural resistance to the elements. This makes it a more robust and long-lasting option for uncovered spaces. However, this durability comes with a commitment: you’ll need to periodically treat the wood with a stain to protect it from UV rays and moisture and maintain its rich color.
Style & Aesthetic
Your choice will largely depend on your personal style. NÄMMARÖ is undeniably modern and minimalist. Its clean lines and simple forms are perfect for contemporary homes and urban environments where space is at a premium and a sleek look is desired. It aligns with a bright, uncluttered Scandinavian aesthetic.
ÄPPLARÖ, in contrast, is all about rustic charm. The natural acacia wood grain, warm color, and traditional slatted design create a cozy, inviting atmosphere that feels right at home in a garden, country home, or any space aiming for a more classic, nature-inspired feel. Its look is timeless and complements lush greenery well.
Dimensions & Modularity
The NÄMMARÖ collection generally features more compact, standalone pieces scaled for smaller areas like city balconies. Its lightweight nature makes moving chairs for extra guests or rearranging a small deck simple. ÄPPLARÖ offers greater flexibility for larger spaces through its modular seating and storage units. You can combine corner sections, single seats, and benches to build a custom outdoor sofa that fits your patio perfectly.
Price & Value
Both series are budget-friendly, but NÄMMARÖ is the more economical choice upfront. If the lowest price is your main driver, NÄMMARÖ delivers a modern look for less. The ÄPPLARÖ costs slightly more per piece, but delivers considerable value through its durability. If properly maintained, ÄPPLARÖ can last for many more seasons, making it a better long-term investment for those who plan to use their outdoor space heavily.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both of these IKEA outdoor collections are excellent choices, but they are built for different people and priorities.
Choose NÄMMARÖ if:
- You have a small balcony, porch, or patio.
- You love a sleek, modern, Scandinavian-minimalist style.
- Your budget is your most important consideration.
- You need outdoor furniture that is lightweight and easy to move or store away.
Choose ÄPPLARÖ if:
- You prefer a warm, rustic, and natural wood look for your outdoor space.
- Durability and weather resistance are your top priorities.
- You want a modular system to create a custom seating or dining layout.
- You don't mind performing occasional maintenance (like re-staining) to preserve the wood furniture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between IKEA NÄMMARÖ and ÄPPLARÖ?
The main difference comes down to style and materials. NÄMMARÖ is a modern, minimalist collection made from engineered wood and metal, while ÄPPLARÖ is a rustic series made from durable solid acacia wood.
Which IKEA outdoor furniture is more durable?
The ÄPPLARÖ series is generally more durable due to its solid hardwood construction. With proper annual maintenance, it can withstand outdoor elements for many years. NÄMMARÖ is durable for its price point but is best suited for covered areas or stored during extreme weather.
Is the IKEA ÄPPLARÖ series being discontinued?
While the ÄPPLARÖ series has been a staple for years, IKEA frequently updates its product lines. You may find that availability varies by region as new series are introduced. It's always best to check the IKEA website for the most current product offerings in your country.
How do you care for ÄPPLARÖ wood furniture?
To maintain its durability and appearance, you should clean the furniture regularly and re-stain it with an outdoor wood stain, like IKEA's VÅRDA, once or twice a year depending on sun and rain exposure.
Which series is better for a small balcony?
The NÄMMARÖ series is typically a better choice for small balconies. Its pieces are more compact, lightweight, and designed with smaller footprints in mind, making it easier to furnish tight spaces.
Do I have to assemble IKEA outdoor furniture?
Yes, like most IKEA products, both the NÄMMARÖ and ÄPPLARÖ series come flat-packed and require self-assembly. IKEA provides all necessary tools and instructions with each product.
Is NÄMMARÖ furniture waterproof?
NÄMMARÖ furniture is weather-resistant, meaning it can handle some rain and moisture. However, it is not fully waterproof. To prolong its life, we recommend using a furniture cover or moving it to a sheltered spot during heavy rain or the off-season.
What type of wood is ÄPPLARÖ made from?
The ÄPPLARÖ series is primarily made from solid acacia, a durable, dense hardwood that is naturally well-suited for outdoor furniture due to its resistance to moisture and wear.
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