Comfort with Stressless®: a history of quality and innovation

More than just furniture, Stressless® furniture is the epitome of precision. Driven by a passion for movement and a constant search for the right balance between softness and support, Stressless designs speak the natural language of your body.

The way you furnish your interior plays an essential role in your well-being, and in the mood of those around you. Whether it’s playful, elegant or bold, there’s a Stressless® design perfectly suited to create the atmosphere you desire. Stressless® furniture is fully customisable, allowing you to choose from a wide range of materials, colours and details.

The legendary Stressless® recliner

The timeless icon, the Stressless® recliner, was born on the west coast of Norway, in the peaceful community of Sykkylven, where their main factory is still located. Founded in 1934 by Jens Ekornes, the company has since crafted some of the world’s most elegant furniture. In an environment where resources were scarce, their philosophy of sustainability was firmly anchored in the factory’s DNA.

The foundations of the brand

In 1934, Jens Ellingsen Ekornes started a small furniture business. Within a short space of time, J. E. Ekornes Fjærfabrikk (the spring factory), with just three employees and using German machinery, won its first customers and prospered, selling springs for furniture and mattresses all over Norway.

When Stressless® Original was introduced in 1971, it was a phenomenal success. Today, whether it’s a Stressless® recliner, sofa or dining chair, each piece is assembled by hand using the most sophisticated furniture manufacturing technology available. While new designs continue to emerge against the backdrop of this fjord landscape, their core commitment remains unchanged: to provide the most comfortable seating experience possible.

Exceptional design

The dedicated attention of Stressless® employees is the result of generations of furniture expertise and a culture built on decades of design principles and treatment of solid materials.

Norwegian design, like Nordic design, is based on functionality and quality materials. However, their aesthetic sensibility is deeply influenced by the majesty of the surrounding nature. This natural beauty brings a touch of poetry and freedom to the designs. Transforming nature’s gifts into exceptional products requires considerable effort, a job they are proud to do.
The Stressless® roots and environment are at the heart of our design and innovation. As a brand, Stressless® is committed to sustainability, simplicity and a vision of democratic living. A heritage proudly embodied, far beyond borders and markets.

A sustainable ambition

Stressless®’s goal is to become the world’s most environmentally friendly furniture manufacturer, and the leader in circular design. Thanks to the use of hydropower, this goal is within reach. Greenhouse gas emissions are reduced year on year, and they currently recycle 80% of their waste.

Stressless is committed to shaping the future in a sustainable way, while continuing to offer unrivalled comfort to customers of long-standing partner Au Bon Repos.