IKEA – Guide – Shelve Unit – Niels Gammelgaard – 1980s

This IKEA Guide shelving unit by Niels Gammelgaard combines a grey steel frame with colourful reversible shelves. Designed in 1985, it offers an open structure and a playful approach to storage. Each shelf has a coloured side and a white side. This example is in good vintage condition, with signs of use consistent with its age.

IKEA Guide shelving unit by Niels Gammelgaard

The open frame gives books and objects room to stand out. For example, you can combine storage with a display of ceramics or small design pieces. In addition, the reversible shelves let you choose between a colourful arrangement and a quieter white surface. This makes the visual character easy to adapt to your room.

The grey lacquered steel provides a restrained outline around the shelves. Meanwhile, the coloured surfaces add contrast and a clear 1980s character. The unit can become a focal point against a plain wall. Alternatively, use its white shelf surfaces to create a calmer display beside other colourful furniture.

Dimensions and materials

This shelving unit measures 170 cm wide, 30 cm deep and 159 cm high. Its shallow depth is useful when planning storage without taking up too much floor space. However, check the full width and height against your available area before ordering. Allow room to access the shelves and arrange your objects comfortably.

• Designer: Niels Gammelgaard
• Manufacturer: IKEA
• Model: Guide
• Design year: 1985
• Frame: grey lacquered steel
• Shelves: coloured on one side and white on the other
• Width: 170 cm
• Depth: 30 cm
• Height: 159 cm

Vintage condition and delivery

The unit shows expected marks and wear from age and use. Importantly, one corner of the red shelf has been professionally glued. Please review the photographs to see this repair and the surface details. Contact us if you would like a closer view before purchasing.

Explore our vintage shelving for more storage designs, or browse the Swedish Vintage shop. Most items can be shipped worldwide or collected locally. Contact us by email or Instagram for a shipping quote and delivery arrangements.