IKEA Japan is set to begin selling the new version of the VARMBLIXT LED Table/Wall Lamp starting Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at IKEA stores nationwide and through the IKEA online store. The updated lamp is now compatible with the universal "Matter" standard, bringing smarter lighting control to the iconic design created in collaboration with New Zealand-born, Amsterdam-based designer Sabine Marcelis.
Alongside the new VARMBLIXT, the KAJPLATS LED bulb series also receives a Matter-compatible upgrade, with products available sequentially from April 1 at IKEA stores and from May 1, 2026 via the IKEA online store.
A Smarter VARMBLIXT
Since its debut just over three years ago, the VARMBLIXT lamp has become one of IKEA's most talked-about items, appreciated both for its sculptural presence and the quality of its light. The new version builds on that foundation with notable functional upgrades.
The lamp's surface transitions from its original glossy finish to a soft matte white glass. Inside, a color-adjustable LED system allows users to go beyond simple brightness and color temperature control — the full range of hues can now be freely adjusted to suit the mood of a room.
Using the included BILRESA remote, users can cycle through 12 carefully selected preset colors curated by Sabine Marcelis. The sequence moves from various white light temperatures through glowing amber, warm red, soft pink, cool lavender, turquoise, and gentle yellow tones before returning to white — each color chosen so that transitions feel smooth and gradual rather than abrupt.
For those who want even more control, pairing the lamp with the separately sold DIRIGERA Smart Products Hub unlocks full-spectrum control across 40+ shades and nuances, including fine-tuning of brightness and dimming. The lamp is also compatible with the IKEA Home smart app and other Matter-enabled systems.
VARMBLIXT LED Table/Wall Lamp — ¥8,999
Whether mounted on a wall or placed on a table, the lamp creates a striking focal point. The included remote allows switching between different light colors and adjusting brightness to match any setting. With the separately sold DIRIGERA Hub and IKEA Home smart app, the lamp can be synced to daily rhythms, grouped with other lamps, and set to automatically turn on and off to simulate occupancy while away.
Designers on the New VARMBLIXT
Designer Sabine Marcelis commented on the new version:
"This time, I focused on exploring what more could be done within the iconic donut lamp shape. The color variations are part of that, but the essence of VARMBLIXT has always been about 'how you experience light.' In the original donut lamp, external light reflected beautifully off the glossy surface. In this new version, the matte finish allows light to spread softly from the inside. I see it as a natural and technical evolution of the light experience. We spent a great deal of time fine-tuning the transitions between the selected colors so that the shift feels like a smooth journey through every tone, rather than something sudden."
Chiara Ripalti, Lighting Product Developer at IKEA of Sweden, added:
"VARMBLIXT is one of those designs people recognize immediately. We have always focused on the emotional aspect of light and the atmosphere Sabine creates. With this new version, we have taken that idea further, adding updates that allow for freer exploration of emotions — from cool tones to warm light."
KAJPLATS LED Bulb Series
The KAJPLATS series also gains Matter compatibility in this update, offering options ranging from a convenient starter kit to individual decorative bulbs.
KAJPLATS Starter Kit — ¥2,999
A set that includes one smart bulb with wireless dimming and multi-color switching, plus one remote. A straightforward entry point for smart lighting at home.
KAJPLATS LED Bulb E17 440 Lumen — ¥999
Supports wireless dimming and color switching (warm white to white). The chandelier-style bulb shape adds character to any space.
KAJPLATS LED Bulb E26 485 Lumen — ¥1,299
Recommended for lighting fixtures where the bulb itself is a visual feature. Attractive even without a shade, it supports wireless dimming and color switching (warm white to white).
IKEA Japan notes that the collaboration with Sabine Marcelis will continue, with future projects focusing on new interpretations of light and exploring its emotional value in everyday spaces and home environments.
More details are available on the IKEA Japan website.
