Anyone who doubts the saying, “Good things come in small packages,” obviously never visited Jake Sammon’s studio apartment.
The playful, well-designed space has a decidedly 70s-inspired feel, although it wasn’t always the stylish abode it is today.
“When I first moved in, it wasn’t exactly what you’d call ‘cute.’” Jake reminisced.
The apartment, located in a 1950s building in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, came with a few quirks, but also showcased some charming details, like original trim and a roomy layout (as far as studios go).
Jake moved into the unit in 2018, and although he lives alone, his partner of five years is right across the street. Currently, with his rent frozen at a price that’s almost too good to be true, Jake says he has no plans to move anytime soon.
Instead, he’s made the small apartment his home, sweet home, and he bounces back and forth between it and his partner’s place.
The Table That Started It All
Jake’s focus for his apartment’s design was to create a comfortable and inviting space that blends playfulness and maturity.
He explains, “This isn’t a museum or a magazine shoot. It’s a home, and I want it to feel like one.”
But where to start?
As it turns out, as is the case with many successful design projects, all Jake needed was one solid piece. If you can find that one piece that you love, that pulls you in, then suddenly, everything else just falls into place.
For Jake, that springboard moment was the IKEA STOCKHOLM 2025 coffee table. He had the 2017 version, but the table’s surfboard shape was, to quote Jake, “a real shin-banger” in small spaces.
Therefore, Jake stopped by his local IKEA to see the newest table in person.
In a moment of true serendipity, he found a recently returned table in the as-is section. It was like fate was in agreement with him that this was the piece he needed. He scooped up the table and brought it home.
One STOCKHOLM 2025 Piece Is Great, But 10 Are Better
As Jake looked through the glass top of his new table, he decided he needed a statement rug that could hold its own in the space. He checked out the rug in the STOCKHOLM 2025 collection and fell in love with the color-blocked orange beauty.
He ended up selecting a lot of other pieces from the STOCKHOLM range. Jake shares, “It was the vibe of the collection that drew me in. It felt like it belonged in my apartment. I give full credit to the designers — they really nailed it.”
A tour of Jake’s studio reveals several STOCKHOLM 2025 pieces. In addition to the circular glass coffee table and color-blocked rug, you’ll also find:
How the STOCKHOLM 2025 Collection Helps Create a Stylish and Sophisticated Studio
Many of Jake’s existing pieces were natural wood, and he had a few vintage items mixed in for good measure.
The STOCKHOLM 2025 collection balanced well with his things thanks to its focus on luxury and natural materials.
Some of the pieces feel antique, while others, like the Djurmo armchair, have a more modern sensibility.
Plus, the materials, like oak, glass, and brass, pop up in subtle ways throughout the collection, providing a quiet continuity without getting too matchy-matchy.
Mixing vintage and DIY pieces with new items from the STOCKHOLM collection creates a cohesive space that feels intentional.
One of Jake’s favorite examples is a mid-century acorn fireplace that he restored with his stepdad.
Before the fireplace found a home with Jake, it was being used as a fire pit in someone’s backyard. Now, with the STOCKHOLM lamp beside it, it looks like it’s always been there.
Everything in the apartment feels carefully curated and collected. Jake says that many visitors are shocked when he reveals some of his pieces are from IKEA because they assume they’re vintage finds.
The Homeowner Shares His Design Thoughts
Did any of the STOCKHOLM items surprise you once you got them home?
The lamp ended up being one of my favorites. I didn’t expect to love it as much as I do, but the travertine base, brass body, and woven shade all work together to give off a really beautiful glow. Plus, my apartment doesn’t have overhead lighting, so it’s actually been a lifesaver.
The wavy glass tealight holder was another surprise. It casts this soft ripple pattern on the wall. It’s small but such a cool detail.
How do you want your home to feel when you walk through the door — and do you think STOCKHOLM helped you get there?
Every day when I come into my apartment, I’m filled with joy. It really hasn’t lost its charm. I think it can be the setting for a quiet cocktail and some deep conversation over dinner, but it can also be a place that facilitates laughter and fun.
STOCKHOLM helped me get there. The moody lighting and delicate glassware set a tone, but the rug and mirror let you know that this place is a little funky — and that at my place, you can be too.
Are there any rituals or routines in your home that STOCKHOLM pieces support?
Yes, I use the little handleless brown mugs for my morning coffee, which is kind of a ritual in itself. The round coffee table has also been a game-changer for hosting. It encourages a circular seating arrangement, making sharing food and conversation more natural. Everyone’s within reach of the snacks. It’s a small detail, but it’s made a big difference.
What is your favorite IKEA product of all time (besides STOCKHOLM)?
The VARMBLIXT donut lamp. It’s a conversation starter every time.
What was the last thing you bought for your home?
The Djurmo armchair from STOCKHOLM. I told myself I was done… but clearly I’m not.
What is the most complimented item or area in your space?
I’ve noticed over the past couple of years that when I host people, everyone gravitates toward something different. It always fascinates me — it’s such a clear reminder of how subjective taste and style can be.
That said, I think it goes without saying that the ceiling-high vintage acorn fireplace, which we painted orange and outfitted with a faux fireplace insert, is not exactly subtle. It’s usually the thing people pause in front of and go, “Wait… what is that?” It ends up being a point of wonder for most guests.
A big thanks to Jake Sammon for sharing his home with us. We loved seeing everything he did with IKEA’s STOCKHOLM 2025 collection and how he used it to create such a warm, welcoming space.
Watch Jake’s Home Tour Slideshow
Has IKEA helped you make your house a home? Tell us about it, and you could be our next featured home tour!