IKEA has unveiled what it describes as Sweden’s sunniest square metre, identifying and permanently marking the exact location estimated to have received the highest amount of sunshine in the country over the past two decades.
Located on the island of Gotland off Sweden’s east coast, the site has been commemorated with a permanent monument featuring two stone armchairs inspired by the IKEA SKARPÖ outdoor chair, designed by Magnus Elebäck. The installation enables visitors to experience the exact location while celebrating Sweden’s long-standing appreciation for outdoor living and sunshine.
The initiative is rooted in Sweden’s cultural relationship with sunlight, shaped by long and dark winter seasons. IKEA says the project aims to encourage people to make the most of outdoor spaces during the brighter months of the year.
“As the seasons change, so do the ways we live. When sunlight and warmth return after winter, people across Sweden naturally spend more time outdoors. At IKEA, we want to help as many people as possible enjoy life outside, and identifying Sweden’s sunniest square metre is part of that ambition,” said Linda Vikström, Communications Manager at IKEA Sweden.
Powered by Two Decades of Climate Data
To determine the location, IKEA collaborated with the Swedish Meteorological and Hydrological Institute (SMHI) and analyzed data from SARAH-3, a high-resolution satellite-based climate database that tracks solar radiation.
Researchers examined sunshine distribution across Sweden between January 2005 and December 2025. The analysis enabled experts to identify the area estimated to have accumulated the highest number of sunshine hours over the 20-year period.
According to the findings, the selected site received an average of 2,137 hours of sunshine annually, equivalent to nearly six hours of sunshine per day throughout the year.
A New Destination for Sun Seekers
Following the identification of the sunniest region, IKEA worked to pinpoint the exact square metre and transform it into a permanent landmark. The company hopes the site will become a unique summer attraction, inviting visitors to travel to Gotland and experience Sweden’s brightest location firsthand.
The project combines data science, design, and outdoor living, reflecting IKEA’s focus on enhancing everyday experiences while celebrating Sweden’s connection to nature and seasonal living.
By turning a data-driven discovery into a public destination, IKEA aims to create a lasting symbol of the country’s love for sunshine and the outdoor lifestyle that accompanies it.
