/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/how-stressless-makes-furniture-that-lasts/diningchair_prototype_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=1200&ch=1200&hash=A4CAC6F6CC46F394C74095A0AE21122E

How we make furniture that lasts

We believe that tangible change comes from the daily practices we commit to consistently.

We recognize that we have a footprint, and as a global company, we take full responsibility as we strive to reduce it. By looking at the entire picture and making intentional choices about how we power our factories, source materials, produce our product and deliver it, we can make a small dent in a huge problem. It doesn’t save the world, but it makes a difference and most importantly, is progress over perfection.



Solveig Gaundal, our Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility, shares the steps we are taking to help safeguard the health of our planet through long-lasting products. 


What is your mission when it comes to being sustainable as a business?

 Sustainability is a word that is often tossed around but at Ekornes we believe its about being environmentally ethical, adhering to circular, sensitive practises that ultimately don’t leave the planet worse off.

What steps are you taking to create positive change?

 When we create a piece of furniture we’re looking at the entire process; Timeless design, what materials we use, manufacturing and supply chain, as well as packaging and delivery. Then after production, the longevity of the product, its ability to be repaired and reused and eventually how it can be recycled or biodegrades at the end of its life cycle.

/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/how-stressless-makes-furniture-that-lasts/sowing_1920x1280.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=1920&ch=1080&hash=E7E8D4D1F528B88444694D79EB778881

Can you expand on why design is part of the process?

The most distinctive feature of iconic furniture throughout history, is timeless design. The ability to transcend trends, as well as being both desirable and durable. A huge part of our longevity mindset is to design pieces that will stand the test of time. We want our brand to grow slowly and intentionally, prioritizing design, construction and comfort, so that our products can be treasured and passed on to future generations. We see many of our original recliners from 1971, with the metal base, on Vinterior, Ebay and on social accounts, which just goes to prove that iconic style will always hold its value in the world.


/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/how-stressless-makes-furniture-that-lasts/drawing2_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=4F5DD2A336E14DA77D600B5EEA1A64E1

The most distinctive feature of iconic furniture throughout history, is timeless design.
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/how-stressless-makes-furniture-that-lasts/stresslessoriginal_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=1C20F375E0EC82C9A39EECF6A3B34CE5

We see many of our original recliner from 1971, with the metal base, on Vinterior, Ebay and on social accounts, which just goes to prove that iconic style will always hold its value in the world.

Can you tell us more about the types of material you use?

For every piece of furniture we make, we always prioritise quality, premium materials. From the finest leather to using the latest technological innovations, every element is considered and carefully selected. This commitment not only guarantees the functionality and longevity of our products, but how they can be reused and recycled further down the line, as well as contributing to its overall value and appeal. By reducing consumption, we are ultimately reducing waste, resulting in well built, good quality products that will last a lifetime and retain their value for years to come.

How do you minimize the impact of the manufacturing process?

When thinking about the manufacturing process, it’s really about constantly working to reduce the impact the business creates, just by being in business. Some examples of this are minimizing raw material usage as well as the water and energy we use. For example, the more complicated, internal closed loop system, allows us to clean the steel without releasing harmful toxins and the water based lacquers we choose hold a similar benefit. We’ve also implemented waste reduction targets, which focus on reusing materials in addition to recycling. Excess foam, for instance, is cut down, remoulded, to be used in armrests and footstools. We also use environmentally friendly transport, fully recyclable product packaging, and are very fortunate that our dedicated team of staff are as committed to the caretaking of our planet. Globally, everyone in our company contributes daily towards more thoughtful practices and its all these big and small things we do that make sustainability stick.
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/how-stressless-makes-furniture-that-lasts/fabrics_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=6E8A9A9557812B393045F04B07144689

For every piece of furniture we make, we always prioritise quality, premium materials. From the finest leather to using the latest technological innovations, every element is considered and carefully selected.
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/how-stressless-makes-furniture-that-lasts/solveig_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=A3F1F18A9E2A54F0CE6C397A8E652014

Solveig Gaundal, Manager of Corporate Social Responsibility

Have you tracked this progress to measure its success?

Our most recent design project was our dining room chairs, where we conducted lifecycle assessments to really understand the environmental impact of the product from cradle to grave. By considering the environmental impact of disposal, we were able to minimise our footprint by using biodegradable materials and ensuring that every aspect could be easily disassembled for recycling. By thinking about the product lifespan as a whole, it really informed our decision- making in the whole design process and allowed us to make the most ethical choices. All whilst maintaining our signature standard of comfort and design.

What does the future hold?

We continue to educate ourselves on new materials, manufacturing processes and technologies, first knowing better than doing better. Whilst the task can seem daunting, we recognise that every step we make in the right direction is progress, even a micro step is still moving in the right direction and that is something we can be proud of.
Blog arcticles

These might also interest you

/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/aboutus/aboutus-images/wooden_base_400x400.png?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=D98CA9408D3CF6CB31F6F30A5A81ADE6

The Magazine

To make the world's best recliners, we build upon decades of material knowledge, generations of craftmanship and Nordic design. On the way, we have attracted creative people with new ideas and perspectives. When these forces meet, interesting stories arise. You only get to see our finished products. With the magazine, we would like to change that.

/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/recharge-your-mind/tomasrelaxing.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=08367E6B8371413BCE7003E31554247A

The Pleasures and Benefits of resting to recharge your mind

In today’s fast-paced society, where many of us are constantly on the go, and feel the cumulative toll of constant alerts vying for attention, psychologist Tomas Myklebust offers a refreshing reminder: rest is not an indulgence—it’s a necessity.
Read the article
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/sewyeah/christineleechxhelping_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=17C58B01E1D94E27790D204EF5C7A418

SewYeah

If there ever was an ideal time to slow down and catch one’s breath, it’s now. As the days draw in and outside temperatures drop, it’s time to align ourselves with the seasons and live as nature intended, relishing time spent indoors.
Read the article
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/unity-by-diversity-and-inclusion/portrait_woman_sewing_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=21E52CD5CC42A89E77FE1DD286990466

Unity through diversity and inclusion

To learn more about the diverse and inclusive work culture we cultivate, we share some heartwarming stories and impactful initiatives that make Stressless a beacon of unity.
Read the article
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/how-stressless-makes-furniture-that-lasts/diningchair_prototype_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=913C764F43A294FDA803440E57D059D6

How we make furniture that lasts

We believe that tangible change comes from the daily practises we commit to consistently.

Read the article
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/norwegianfurniturerush/ekornesas_ikornnes_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=A2CCEA9F8D8425578FF79EE842BBCBC6

The great Norwegian furniture rush

A Norwegian saying claims that you can create gold from stone. One proof of this is the booming furniture village of Sykkylven.
Read the article
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/inspiration/material/newcolours24/warmneutrals960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=859B428F52620095C5107AC3F4CE6A83

A desire for something real

The new Stressless® color palette reflects our need for reconnecting with the natural world.
Read the article
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/feelfreetofeelblue/tealblue_colors_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=6E63AE2A4CE3328FB95194940C507A54

Feel free to feel blue

Bring the magical hour inside, and immerse yourself in its soothing colors for as long as you desire.
Read the article
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/setthetable/decorations960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=637B450E076BB3BB6DAD5585A2EB42A6

Set the table for an unforgettable evening

The stylist's best tips for decorating your party table are surprisingly simple.

Meet Birgitta Roald.
Learn more
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/renonewgarments/reno_thyme_green_2_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=58EC933FB7172D00C90C823D459E41D6

A timeless classic in a new outfit

Stressless® Reno never goes out of style, and truly shines in this new attire.
Find out more
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/warm-colors/janne-fabrics-warm-colors.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=B58DF29456020C5E565D3E45544E83F0

Boost your mood with warm colors

Feeling a bit chilly, both inside and out? Warm up with earthy colors! 
 
Meet Janne Muri, Project Manager CMF
Read the article
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/anna/anna_9h6a6890_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=A7BB1440974B77CA1FE9B79E33997E3A

Taking motorized sofas to new heights

The new and innovative Stressless® Anna sofa is lighter and more powerful – and the result of jumping at the opportunity.

 
Meet Product Manager Rikke Wold
Hear the story
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/berlin/ms9h6a6551_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=6FF3C2560795D02038B3135D0CA80355

Classic comfort meets modern design

Named after the city that epitomizes the blend of tradition and innovation, the brand new Stressless® Berlin recliner has already made heads turn.

 

Retailers in Central Europe rush to place their orders.

Find out why
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/skiing/skiing9h6a6779_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=49A42201224278AA85F61DC7D1E9920F

Where work meets nature

Imagine going straight to the mountains after work, sleeping under the open sky and skiing back down at sunrise. That is the reality of some of our nature-loving employees.

 

Meet two enthustiastic employees.

Read the article
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/flowershow/chelsearhs_627x627.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=7C9BCAD25C9C3687FAD3C2232307367A

Supporting the joy of gardening

We are as passionate about nature as we are about our beautiful furniture, so it comes naturally that we are keen to support the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and the wonderful work they do in the UK.
Read about the event
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/colours/paldarkmushroom_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=BA4B56529EA1403A6A8C085E4E781921

Colors to embrace and uplift 2023

Across all sectors and markets, consumers will be yearning for color that brings calm and joy.
 

Here are the key colors for 2023.

See the colours
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/jb_4y2a8295_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=79704455211B338ABE6A1ADE6B87E745

Looking into the crystal ball of colors

When you invest in quality furniture, you probably want to make sure the color doesn’t go out of style in a few years. 
 
– Every year, Janne and Berit have to predict the future. How do they do it?
Read the article
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/curves/4y2a0462_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=278CA1BDC352CF247B974202C8D0AC4F

Curves are in our nature

For decades, scientists have been intrigued by the fact that humans seem to have an aesthetic preference for curves over straight lines.

 

Why is this? Is it a learnt preference, or is it evolution?

Read the article
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/gu/sheeps_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=934021CD634F8D853E8CE7D81D801F6A

The future looks wooly

Wool is a natural material that is durable and long-lasting, which makes it a great choice for furniture upholstery.
 
When we went searching for a partner to deliver the finest wool fabrics available, we didn’t have to travel far. 
Get to know the wool specialists
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/me-time/4y2a0323_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=E55BD2D59FFAF09A53B1F1CFFAE292B3

The importance of me-time

Taking breaks during the day is essential for maintaining your physical and mental health.

 

We asked a psychiatrist for her best advice on winding down.

Learn how stress impact you
/en-ca/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/reno/anneguriunhjemnew_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=AACA38699A55AAB81AF772EAE3B00583

Like a warm embrace

The Stressless® Reno has been among the company’s top sellers for close to three decades.

 

What’s the secret behind its success?

Read the article