IKEA plans to open its first Alabama store in Huntsville in early 2026, the company announced on Tuesday. The Swedish home furnishings giant will take over space at the University Place Shopping Center, at 6125 University Place Drive, in the city’s bustling retail corridor.

The location, just off Research Park Boulevard and accessible via Interstate 565, sits near the MidCity development and the Bridge Street Town Centre.

“We are thrilled to open our first store in Alabama to bring the dream of a better home within reach for more people across the country,” said Javier Quiñones, CEO & chief sustainability officer, IKEA U.S.

The 46,000-square-foot store will feature fully furnished room displays and “local living” designs tailored to the Huntsville market. About 5,000 products will be on view, with more than 2,000 items — including home accessories and 75 types of small furniture — available for same-day purchase.

Larger items, such as sofas and beds, will be available to order online, with free in-store pickup or home delivery for a small fee. Customers shopping on IKEA’s website will also be able to choose the Huntsville store as a pickup location.

The store will include a central planning area where customers can book one-on-one design consultations for kitchens, bedrooms, bathrooms and small-space layouts.

IKEA Huntsville will also feature the Swedish food experience, offering a variety of hot and cold IKEA favorites like meatballs, plant balls, hot dogs, veggie dogs, plant dogs, cinnamon buns, and more—available to enjoy in-store or take home for later.

In keeping with the company’s sustainability efforts, the store will include an “As-is” department, selling gently used and discontinued items at reduced prices.

“I’m excited to bring the IKEA experience and stylish, functional, and affordable home furnishings to Alabama,” said John Achillea, market area manager, IKEA U.S. “We are meeting the many people where they are, and I’m thrilled that we are continuing to grow our presence in the South.”