/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/anna/anna_9h6a6890_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=1200&ch=1200&hash=7A2D84D973E6D8209DEAFE386B60AE5E

01 Design

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.  

 

You've set a goal, made a plan, started working on it... and then you make a discovery that suggests there are untold opportunities ahead of you. What do you do then? Do you jump at the chance, or continue as before? Along the way, in any process, ideas may pop up that are just too exciting to ignore. That's what happened to Product Manager Rikke Wold and her team when they started designing a new Stressless® sofa.

— Actually, the work started with a completely different direction. But when we discovered the mechanical possibilities of this new Power-platform, we simply couldn't resist the temptation to design a sofa around it, says Rikke. 

 

The result is Stressless® Anna – a sofa that pushes the boundaries of what a motorized sofa can look like and what it can offer.  

/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/anna/anna_9h6a6566_960x1500.jpg?cx=0.47&cy=0.54&cw=912&ch=912&hash=35CDB785560291A646CD8AE05F955DAE
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/anna/anna_9h6a6484_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=E2419C9C69D8BFF5C01EE34405095D8D

Restorative comfort 

One significant change is that the footrest can now be lifted even higher, approaching the Zero Gravity position. It creates an incredibly relaxing feeling. By reclining the seat as far back as possible, the legs are raised to a horizontal position. This enables equal distribution of weight, removing excess pressure on certain parts of the body, which again enhances the blood circulation and provides a comfortable position for relaxation. 

/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/anna/anna_9h6a6511_1440x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=1920&ch=1080&hash=B72043DB4A460D02B074B36EDFA2D1DA

Fast and silent 

So, what exactly does a motorized sofa offer? It’s quite simple: At the press of a button, the headrest appears behind you and the footrest extends from the base. Voilà – what looked like a normal low-back sofa has transformed to a recliner-like seat. 

 

What are people looking for in a motorized sofa? 

— We know that many are concerned with having a fast and quiet motor, and that there should be good opportunities for individual customization. That's exactly what Stressless® Anna provides. Single seats can be adjusted while other parts of the sofa remain stationary. The new platform has allowed us to create a modular design with a wide range of choices, so you can build the exact sofa you want, says Rikke. 

 

What about the appearance? There's a lot to hide under the hood of a motorized piece of furniture, and they have traditionally seemed a bit bulky? 

— On the outside, Stressless® Anna is definitely lighter in expression and more modern than what has been possible before. We wanted to give the frame more air, so we created a design with fewer legs, making it fit better in a modern home. The goal is to approach the appearance of a regular sofa that's not motorized, even with all the powerful components built in. 

/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/anna/anna_9h6a6477_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=4A995D2136C8E21D5195B3A7FC8E971C
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/anna/anna_9h6a6619_960x960.jpg?cx=0.5&cy=0.5&cw=912&ch=912&hash=BF21FDA1B6AF1F127541425FAE1716A2

Growing popularity 

The US and central parts of Europe are the markets with the longest traditions for this type of furniture. However, Scandinavia is catching up, and the first dealers have now introduced Stressless® Anna in Northern Europe. 

 

Could it have something to do with changes in lifestyle, now that large TVs and entertainment technology have become accessible to most people? Maybe people want extra comfort in their home theatres? 

— Yes, not only that, but I think many want to invest a little extra in something that can become a nice gathering place for the family. If you have flexible seating and relaxation options, the sofa will be used for much more than just watching TV. In terms of appearance, the Stressless® Anna cover features an elegant double stitch in the back and seat, giving it personality while still being neutral enough to blend in with many other pieces of furniture.  

 

— The recliners Stressless® Berlin and Stressless® Erik have an extra close relationship in design, making them ideal partners. It can be delivered with three different armrests and a range of leg designs, giving quite different expressions. But no matter what a piece of furniture with the Stressless® brand looks like, there's always one thing that comes first, says Rikke. 

 

— Comfort is always our guiding principle. The goal with any Stressless® sofa is that each seat should be as comfortable as our recliners. Of course, that's setting the bar high, but we believe we've achieved that once again. 

/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/anna/anna_9h6a6177_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=94595EA4E2FA3B044CD8C063DBC6E5EF
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/anna/anna_9h6a6594_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=0EA91C0F60BF6E2425064052923EC869

About Rikke

Born in Harstad, Norway, Rikke pursued industrial design at the University of South Australia. During her studies, she enjoyed working on diverse projects and developed a passion for furniture design. After returning to Norway, she joined Ekornes as a designer in 2006. Her designs have reached customers worldwide, and she has developed her expertise on materials, craftsmanship and market analysis in various roles, including designer, project manager and product manager. 

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.

/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/how-stressless-makes-furniture-that-lasts/diningchair_prototype_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=4B162EBCCC346D9DE71701C0A70055B6

How we make furniture that lasts

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

Read the article
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/norwegianfurniturerush/ekornesas_ikornnes_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=5E665929B3BE3ED0BBD09567D71B2916

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
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/inspiration/material/newcolours24/warmneutrals960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=859E8E84C5DBE85BDF4211381C710A2F

A desire for something real

The new Stressless® colour palette reflects our need for reconnecting with the natural world.
Read the article
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/feelfreetofeelblue/tealblue_colors_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=5C56AAB00784AF0C30FE50DBD8D07F24

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
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/setthetable/decorations960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=CAE5F43F8903F6A695F8D5A49AC8364E

Set the table for an unforgettable evening

The stylist's best tips for decorating your party table are surprisingly simple.
Learn more
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/renonewgarments/reno_thyme_green_2_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=B484DF0AE5D14DDE3A1D6D504A2E9637

A timeless classic in a new outfit

Stressless® Reno never goes out of style, and truly shines in this new attire.
Find out more
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/warm-colors/janne-fabrics-warm-colors.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=2E7D08F14651DB7DA8F7B05ECBDEE5C5

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
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/anna/anna_9h6a6890_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=FC7737E0DD6AF581441C2D38EECDA4A5

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
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/berlin/ms9h6a6551_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=D0D186936CED1D57B23A17CBA6BA9900

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
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/skiing/skiing9h6a6779_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=53D7F3C405BFCEBF223AC9241412C93B

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
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/flowershow/chelsearhs_627x627.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=7E3F82BD8BE1442F64750945D2CF390C

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
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/colours/paldarkmushroom_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=44EA90EE38FFCDCD32142A19DF5D4B2F

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
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/jb_4y2a8295_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=6DF32F90C0E2157A767FB6250BC94AC6

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
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/curves/4y2a0462_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=8B9A0A41D67EA2ECB230E7B0FF84E718

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
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/gu/sheeps_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=59EA2A9F797DEC4B830724FCF4627147

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
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/me-time/4y2a0323_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=46564D924DAE34C20460CB79D9929000

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
/sv-se/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/reno/anneguriunhjemnew_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=46AAC9C419D770F358001703C9DDE494

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