IKEA, Porto

BACKGROUND: The IKEA store in Porto opened to the public in 2007 and was, at the time, the largest in the Iberian Peninsula, quickly becoming a landmark in the portuguese historic furniture market. This store would later become the first in the country to be equipped with Solatube daylighting systems, further enhancing its energy efficiency and forward thinking philosophy in terms of sustainability and environmental responsibility.

CHALLENGE: The project for the introduction of Solatube in this store began in 2012, 5 years after its opening therefore offering an array of challenges. As the store was already in full operation the layout of the units had to navigate existing infrastructures and the installation work had to be done after-hours to limit the disruption to clients.

SOLUTION: After a thorough study the choice was for the use of 101 330DS Solatube units with a length of roughly 3,00m. This extension allowed for a efficient light spread on the floor while still allowing for the handling and reach of top shelf levels in the warehouse. In order to implement the Solatube solution and minimize impact to the store’s operation, work had to be organized afterhours, posing a distinct challenge for the installers.

RESULTS: In tandem with the extensive photovoltaic installation in this store, the IKEA store in Matosinhos became a benchmark in sustainability and paved the way for further projects both nationally and internationally inside the IKEA group. The implementation of the Solatube units also extended to the office and conference spaces allowing for a more productive environment for everyone at the store, from the clients to the employees.