/en-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/curves/4y2a0695_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=1200&ch=1200&hash=A392852B2C0FB202E0B740C8956594EB

01 Design

Curves are in our nature

Feeling drawn to the shape of the Stressless® Rome? Science could explain why!

 

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?

 

Some believe it’s simply more pleasing and demands less effort to move your eyes along a curve. Others link it to the neurophysiology of the visual system, after finding that one week old infants fixate longer on curved geometric forms than sharp angled ones. Scientists have also looked at the different connotations we read from sharp or curved lines – the latter often being linked to moods like gentle and quiet. (Eager to know more? Check out this study from Frontiers in Human Neuroscience.)

Holistic design 

Whatever the reason, the designers behind Stressless® recliners have long been aware of this preference. Words like sumptuous, generous, inviting and soft are often used to describe the form of the world-renowned recliners. The soft, curvy look is at least part of the explanation for their popularity.  

 

When VP Design and Project Jeanette Løining and the project team started on a new design back in 2020 (later to become the 2022 Stressless® Rome), this natural preference formed the basis of their sketches. On top of that came an unprecedented level of feedback from customers.  

 

With the help of the design agency EGGS, several design probes were tested on customers in several countries.  

 

- We wanted to know exactly which forms triggered interest, and to map how our customers utilised their recliners in different ways. Based on this feedback, we set out to develop a more holistic design. We wanted gentle, flowing lines no matter which angle you view the recliner from. In addition, we designed a rounded back and seat which maintains the inviting look of a true Stressless® recliner, and gives it a unique embracing quality, says Løining. 

 
 

 

/en-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/curves/4y2a0462_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=23AC4512F779C7308B1B4CE14C045223
We wanted gentle, flowing lines no matter which angle you view the recliner from. In addition, we designed a rounded back and seat which maintains the inviting look of a true Stressless® recliner, and gives it a unique embracing quality, says Jeanette Løining, VP Design and Project.
/en-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/curves/4y2a0528_960x1080.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=DF8D3EAA7E24988D6487D5C37550EF9A

Try it sideways 

Customer research also showed that our users can get quite creative. Many prefer to sit sideways, with their feet curled up in the seat or over the armrest. With this in mind, the seat of the Stressless® Rome was designed to give more freedom of movement. 

 

- In my opinion, we found the perfect balance between our classic DNA and more modern, slender visuals. But it took a lot of planning! On the inside, it is filled with a wealth of comfort technology – that is what makes it a true Stressless® recliner – and we really had to get creative to fit all that into a rather slender body, says Jeanette Løining. 


 

/en-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/curves/4y2a0228_1920x1200.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=1920&ch=1080&hash=FF4F63939AF78C2832D82E54337E385F



An instant hit 

Launching a new design is always exciting. This time, it didn’t take long before the designers got word that the customers seemed to appreciate the new look. Three weeks after its launch, the Stressless® Rome was our best-selling recliner in one of the largest furniture chains in Norway – and still is.  

 

- We were overjoyed, and frankly, a bit relieved. You see, we’ve never designed a recliner that called for so many additions to our production line. Many of new parts have to be manufactured just for this one recliner, so it’s good to know that it’s worth the extra effort, says Løining. 

 

 
/en-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/curves/4y2a0645_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=6A763231DE3987885806555ABEC198FC
/en-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/curves/4y2a0648_960x1080.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=912&ch=912&hash=6348765799B732A0FE0D80D3C53342D6
Three weeks after its launch, the Stressless® Rome was our best-selling recliner in one of the largest furniture chains in Norway – and still is.
Magazine arcticles

These might also interest you

/en-au/-/media/stresslesssite/aboutus/aboutus-images/wooden_base_400x400.png?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=05AE8EF9EFCB3304230A74EB52E7E492

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-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/norwegianfurniturerush/ekornesas_ikornnes_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=00E9AABF522EB22A0C499F596C31A76B

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-au/-/media/stresslesssite/inspiration/material/newcolours24/warmneutrals960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=16B2B2AE4F35A40ADB8FF09726EDD4E9

A desire for something real

The new Stressless® colour palette reflects our need for reconnecting with the natural world.
Read the article
/en-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/feelfreetofeelblue/tealblue_colors_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=8A32AB168391543C33223E8FF9FE4C6A

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
/en-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/setthetable/decorations960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=20317B6DC93BE3F9A55819A0B0EC82AF

Set the table for an unforgettable evening

The stylist's best tips for decorating your party table are surprisingly simple.
Learn more
/en-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/renonewgarments/reno_thyme_green_2_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=5B487D64DE395DE05F840AE3AFC752AD

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-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/warm-colors/janne-fabrics-warm-colors.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=5D6D1DD9C966F38269145880EC40A1B2

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-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/colours/paldarkmushroom_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=535F5B3A431C813747E27C3E60C7A816

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
/en-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/colourstrends/jb_4y2a8295_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=18F988E95D0696381202DA96F46A48D8

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
/en-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/curves/4y2a0462_960x960.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=15FCEECDAFFEB16EFC8D3AD1623E8C3C

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-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/gu/sheeps_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=BBED89D674D77A3C032D50F0D7749B9D

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-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/me-time/4y2a0323_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=90E95AE4B808E69E5933607A6AB6BFE5

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-au/-/media/stresslesssite/magasin/reno/anneguriunhjemnew_650x650.jpg?cx=0&cy=0&cw=460&ch=460&hash=945491856D388868BFDC81A49D8B8181

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