/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/jb_4y2a8295_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=1200&ch=1200&hash=3E682EA7337D524A56EF9AF19176A869

01 Design

Looking into the crystal ball of colours

– Every year, Janne and Berit have to predict the future. How do they do it?
 
When you invest in quality furniture, you probably want to make sure the colour doesn’t go out of style in a few years. Or worse, that the bold colour you saw in the magazine spread just doesn’t look good in your living room. The choice between colours and textures in a Stressless® recliner or sofa is so vast, many use weeks or months pondering over the right choice.
 
Anyone who find that challenging might find Janne Muri and Berit Hellandsvik Steffenssen’s job near impossible. Their daily task is to look years ahead, and try to predict what consumers, retailers and trendsetters will be looking for then. As part of the CMF (Colours, Materials and Finishes) team at Ekornes AS, manufacturers of the world-renowned Stressless® furniture, they have a say on every surface of the furniture. Wood, leather, fabrics – it is their job to ensure that all the materials not only look good, but are also safe, environmentally friendly, and long lasting.

– Can you possibly predict which materials and colours will appeal to us in the future? 
 
It comes down to a combination of research and experience. On the one hand, we visit trend fairs with insights from all over the world and pick up the latest word from other experts. On the other hand, we have our theoretical background and brand knowledge, which is always the foundation of our choices. We feel that we know our customers well, says Berit.

 

Earthly delights 

Every year, they choose a line-up of new colours that are used in photos, brochures, exhibitions, on trade fairs and in retail stores around the world. Nothing is left to chance. And often, the choices are influenced by variables far outside the fashion world.

/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/inspo_4y2a8616_960x1100.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=BE65E697A520BCE6AB50971E0E3B8ABD
We want to surround ourselves with safety, with something trustworthy and natural. That is why earthly tones are high in demand, and will be for years to come, says Berit.
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/inspo_4y2a8890_960x1300.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=8CB3B2F050CB09216A460B628529D5A0

Right now, we live in a world filled with turmoil. That makes us less averse to risk. We want to surround ourselves with safety, with something trustworthy and natural. That is why earthly tones are high in demand, and will be for years to come, says Berit.

That doesn’t mean our interiors will look bland. A vase, a pillow or a wall painted in a bold, contrasting colour is a cheap and efficient way to inject some colour into our surroundings, says Janne. 

 

Six good choices for 2023

For the 2023 collection, the two have selected two earthy mushroom colours, one dark and one lighter. Teal blue gives associations to the ocean, and the bolder Breezy blue signals air and glaciers. The Platinum Grey is a rocky colour which sits well alongside all these. Finally, a new Thyme green will be seen in showrooms and photoshoots around the globe.
 
Greens have been a big thing for a while, but now we see that in addition to the olive greens we also see lots of greens with a more blueish tint, says Janne.

 
 
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/inspo_4y2a8894_960x1300.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=27A7A2DF644A9DD8F34BCFE72C0C57C6
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/b_4y2a8213_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=79AADB9B667D646D75049D063BCDB4D4
Every colour in the new palette can be mixed and will still give a uniform look to the interior. A Stressless® recliner in one colour, a Stressless® sofa in another – it’s all well thought out.
 
Our job is to give customers a selection of colours that can be trusted to last. When we present our colours for 2023, they must be equally relevant in 2024 and beyond. We can’t miss – that’s just too expensive, Janne says, laughing. 

Of course, customers can also choose between all the existing leather and fabric colours that are already in our portfolio. They are still highly relevant.
 
 
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/j_4y2a8387_960x1100.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=23AAFEDFEDFD429494A3BAE7DF4A34CC
Greens have been a big thing for a while, but now we see that in addition to the olive greens we also see lots of greens with a more blueish tint, says Janne Muri.
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/b_4y2a8576_1300x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=A656EF16A774A1829A1664AFD4BAC07A
Our job is to give customers a selection of colours that can be trusted to last, says Berit Hellandsvik Steffensen.

The insider tip

– What is your best tip for someone in the process of choosing colours for their interior? 

 

Be honest with yourself. If you know that refreshing, bold colours give you energy, and that you like to surround yourself with them over time, go for it. But don’t go that way because it looked good in a photo, or it is a fashion trend. If you know that you need calm surroundings, seek out the more neutral colours. But look out for subtle nuances you can add to that grey or brown. Today, there’s so many shades available that just weren’t there before. And finally, ask your retailer! There are so many knowledgeable people in the stores who are very happy to have a chat about colours and design. 

 

As self-proclaimed colour and design-nerds, Janne and Berit really love their job, even though it comes with a lot of expectations from the entire company. 

 

Colour-wise, this is such a good time for Stressless® recliners and sofas. The earthly colours that are in fashion really match the design language of our furniture. And our main selling points beside the comfort – the craftsmanship and longevity – are part of a larger trend with high demand for sustainability and predictability. That makes our work extra fun these days, says Janne.

 
 
Magazine arcticles

These might also interest you

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.

/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/how-stressless-makes-furniture-that-lasts/diningchair_prototype_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=6229C1B82E0922AD170C9A23128704ED

How we make furniture that lasts

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

Read the article
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/norwegianfurniturerush/ekornesas_ikornnes_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=DE7C7439F903CE82A8237D8F7D331621

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
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/inspiration/material/newcolours24/warmneutrals960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=BEB24FAC82CEDD122190895B95C7B101

A desire for something real

The new Stressless® colour palette reflects our need for reconnecting with the natural world.
Read the article
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/feelfreetofeelblue/tealblue_colors_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=F2D17F4FFFB89639222CAE2506FDD7F0

Feel free to feel blue

Bring the magical hour inside, and immerse yourself in its soothing colours for as long as you desire.
Read the article
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/setthetable/decorations960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=FA8D0C4C6766A3B14D374BCD52576629

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
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/renonewgarments/reno_thyme_green_2_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=B24A0D6DF7332B8582040F5DE629D167

A timeless classic in a new outfit

Stressless® Reno never goes out of style, and truly shines in this new attire.
Find out more
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/warm-colors/janne-fabrics-warm-colors.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=B3EBCA4009A88A8CC58383DCC1C5591D

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
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/anna/anna_9h6a6890_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=D44B873B60149336ABB62F2CB5BB1539

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
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/berlin/ms9h6a6551_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=2BE49A941AEAF62C835BA1CCDBA3768F

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
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/skiing/skiing9h6a6779_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=4F876D149C313786FB7816C55AF20A1D

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
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/flowershow/chelsearhs_627x627.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=360B1CADA2C8C6984AC6B048CF51C909

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
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/colours/paldarkmushroom_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=FE61754334747D4072EEC3E1FD7C68A5

Colours to embrace and uplift 2023

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

Here are the key colours for 2023.

See the colours
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/jb_4y2a8295_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=35FEDB5F17B193A656E390922803509E

Looking into the crystal ball of colours

When you invest in quality furniture, you probably want to make sure the colour 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
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/curves/4y2a0462_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=11AEF7FED67C12AEEDA3E053D4D37DCA

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
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/gu/sheeps_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=09B117B5751A655E30B544D14F96A624

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
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/me-time/4y2a0323_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=E4FB5F1A84290171D530BA7261778C81

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
/global/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/reno/anneguriunhjemnew_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=B9A03BC2B1765E8F7E03BCB192AABC3C

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