Varier Gravity Balans Recliner & Kneeling Chair
Relax into Weightlessness with Peter Opsvik’s Iconic Design

Varier Gravity Balans Recliner & Kneeling Chair
Relax into Weightlessness with Peter Opsvik’s Iconic Design
Imagine leaning forward to focus on spreadsheets, then tilting back until your feet hover above your heart for a rejuvenating power nap—without ever leaving the same chair. That seamless transition is the promise of the Varier Gravity Balans, a Scandinavian masterpiece that has redefined ergonomic seating since designer Peter Opsvik first introduced the concept in 1983. Varier Chairs
Friendly-budgets: Varier Gravity Balans Recliner & Kneeling Chair
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Meet the Gravity Balans Concept
At its core, Gravity Balans is an invitation to move. Four intuitive angles let you glide from an active kneeling posture to an upright perch, on to a lounge position, and finally into full “zero-gravity” recline, where gentle rocking synchronizes with your breathing. varierfurniture.comshop.healthydesign.com
Design Philosophy: Freedom Through Movement
Opsvik argues that “the best posture is always the next one,” and the Gravity Balans embodies that credo. By encouraging micro-movements, the chair keeps core muscles engaged, stimulates circulation, and prevents the static fatigue typical of conventional office seating. The sculptural natural-ash runners and a minimalist frame feel more like modern art than furniture, yet every curve serves a kinetic purpose.
Four Positions, One Fluid Motion
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Kneeling Work Mode – Lean forward with shins supported, tilting the pelvis forward to maintain the spine’s natural S-curve and reduce lumbar compression.
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Neutral Upright – Shift weight slightly back; feet rest on the floor or shin cushions, ideal for calls or casual reading.
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Relaxed Lounge – Continue the rock to release shoulder tension while keeping eyes on a laptop or tablet.
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Zero-Gravity Recline – Push gently until your legs rise above heart level, easing venous return, reducing ankle swelling, and fostering deep relaxation. varierfurniture.com
Health & Productivity Benefits
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Spinal Decompression: The kneeling angle tilts the pelvis, aligning vertebrae and easing lower-back pain.
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Improved Circulation: Elevating the legs combats sedentary sluggishness; many users report a post-recline “second-wind” that boosts afternoon focus.
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Core Engagement: Subtle rocking triggers proprioceptive feedback, activating core stabilizers without conscious effort.
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Mindful Breaks: The effortless glide into recline makes short restorative pauses—proven to heighten creativity—more likely.
Materials That Marry Sustainability and Style
The chair pairs a laminated ash base sourced from sustainably managed European forests with Revive upholstery from Kvadrat, a recycled-polyester textile renowned for breathability and light fastness. The popular Black Revive on natural ash evokes understated Nordic elegance while resisting daily wear. Office Chairs USA
Assembly & Maintenance
Gravity Balans arrives in two main pieces plus a slide-adjustable headrest. All tools are included; average assembly time is under 20 minutes. Revive fabric cleans easily with a damp cloth, and the ash runners benefit from the occasional rub of natural furniture oil.
Understanding the 10-Year Limited Warranty
Register your chair within 30 days and Varier covers wooden and polypropylene components for 10 years and mechanical parts for five—well beyond industry norms. varierfurniture.com This commitment underscores the company’s confidence in both craftsmanship and materials.
Who Is the Gravity Balans For?
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Home-office professionals seeking a dynamic alternative to task chairs
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Creative studios where brainstorming shifts into laid-back reflection
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Wellness enthusiasts who value active sitting and restorative micro-naps
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Design aficionados collecting authentic Scandinavian classics
Comparison with Traditional Office Chairs
Feature | Gravity Balans | Standard Ergonomic Chair |
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Posture options | 4 (kneeling to zero-gravity) | 2–3 tilt locks |
Active movement | Continuous rocking | Limited swivel/tilt |
Leg elevation | Above heart | Not supported |
Aesthetic impact | Sculptural wood frame | Utilitarian plastic |
Buying Tips & Price Considerations
The Gravity Balans is an investment—typically retailing north of US $2,000—but consider it functional décor that replaces a desk chair, lounge recliner, and even a fainting couch. Look for authorized dealers to ensure warranty eligibility, and test upholstery swatches at home to match existing interiors.
Common Questions Answered
What is the weight capacity?
The chair is tested to 265 lb (120 kg) without compromising the gentle rocking function.
Can I use it at a standard desk height?
Yes. In kneeling and upright modes, seat height aligns with desks 28–30 in (71–76 cm) tall; an adjustable keyboard tray optimizes wrist angle.
Does it lock into the reclined position?
No. Opsvik purposely avoids locks so your body sets the rhythm; subtle core activation keeps the chair balanced.
Is assembly reversible for moving?
Absolutely. Remove four hex bolts and the base separates from the seat for flat packing.
How long before I adapt to kneeling?
Most users acclimate within a week. Start with 15-minute intervals and alternate positions often.
Conclusion
The Varier Gravity Balans is more than a chair; it is a movement ecosystem that seamlessly blends productivity, wellness, and Scandinavian artistry. By freeing you to shift, rock, and recline at will, it transforms the workstation into a sanctuary of creative energy. If you’re ready to feel weightless, protect your spine, and own a timeless design icon, the Gravity Balans deserves a place in your everyday orbit.