Variable™
Peter Opsvik, 1979
Variable™ is the original kneeling chair, designed to support movement and variation while seated. It follows the body’s need to shift and change position, allowing you to move freely between kneeling and more traditional postures. Built on the balans® concept, the tilted seat helps open the hips and can reduce strain on the lower back, neck, and shoulders.
This product is made to order. Delivery time 2-6 weeks.
Discover a new way of sitting with Variable™
The curved runners of the kneeling chair allow for gentle rocking motions, while the tilted seat enables an open hip angle. This allows the spine to adopt the natural curve it has when we stand upright, also while seated. The two cushions beneath the seat can be used to rest your shins, one foot, both or neither, by placing both feet on the ground. With its minimalist design, the chair invites the whole body to move and every shift of weight will provide movement to a new angle.
Variable™ promotes an active way of sitting, so vary positions frequently throughout the day and have fun with it. Lean forward, stretch out, and let the chair follow your body's natural movements.
Variable™ promotes subtle movements while seated, where the kneeling posture is just one of many. Read on to discover the ergonomic benefits of the original kneeling chair.
Dimensions
Chair Dimensions:
W 52 cm x D 72 cm x H 51 cm
Seat Height:
50 cm
Seat Width:
41,5 cm
Box Dimensions:
H 10,5 cm x L 73,2 cm x W 55 cm
Weight incl box:
6,3 kg
Materials
Variable™ is made from beech plywood. The plywood is treated through an iterative molding process where several veneer layers are combined and glued. Through the application of combined heat and pressure, the layers are given their characteristic shape. All wooden parts are flexible and strong, ensuring a sitting experience that is never static. For a beautiful and durable finish, our plywood is covered with an ash top veneer, manually sanded and coated with water-based lacquers.
Made in Poland.
Suitable for
- Variable™ can be used by standard tabletops ranging from approximately 71 cm to 76 cm
- Variable™ has been tested for use by individuals up to 110 kg
- Variable™ can be used by individuals between 150 cm and 205 cm
Please note that these are general guidelines. Every body is unique. Differences in height, proportions, and sitting preferences mean that comfort can feel different from person to person. Our chairs are thoughtfully designed to support a wide range of bodies and preferences, with the aim of everyone finding their own comfortable way to sit.
Country of Origin
Designed in Norway, made in Poland.
Wood - Romania & Estonia
Foam - Poland & Lithuania
Screws - Poland
Assembly instructions
Peter Opsvik
Peter Opsvik (1939 - 2024) was a Norwegian industrial designer, and stands as one of the most influential figures in ergonomic design. Throughout his career, much of which was spent as a freelance industrial designer, Opsvik shaped the way we think about comfort and functionality. Opsvik's philosophy and design approach are integral to the Varier identity, and we continue to maintain a close collaboration with his team, working with one commitment - to reimagine the way we sit.
A kneeling chair is definitely an eye-catching piece of furniture, but is it actually good for you? Read on to discover the key features and benefits a kneeling chair has to offer.
Read more
FAQ
Can I use Variable™ as an office chair?
Yes. Variable™ can be used as an ergonomic office chair for working at a standard-height desk or table. As an alternative to a traditional office chair, it encourages you to vary your sitting position throughout the day and move between kneeling and more traditional postures. The tilted seat creates an open hip angle, while the curved runners allow gentle rocking and movement as you work.
How does Variable™ work?
Variable™ is an ergonomic chair designed around the idea that sitting does not have to mean staying still. The tilted seat creates an open hip angle, while the curved runners allow you to gently rock and shift your weight. Together, these features make it easy to change position and move naturally while sitting.
Can I use Variable™ at a regular desk?
Yes. Variable™ works with standard tabletops from approximately 71 cm to 76 cm. It suits people between 150 cm and 205 cm tall and has been tested for users up to 110 kg.
Is there an adjustment period when using Variable™?
Yes. It can take some time to get used to sitting on Variable™, especially if you are accustomed to a traditional office chair. You may notice your core working more than usual when you first start using it. As you become more familiar with Variable™ and its different sitting positions, your body adapts and you may find it easier to sit for longer periods.
Start by using Variable™ for shorter periods and gradually increase the time as you get used to it.
How should I sit on Variable™?
There is no single correct way to sit on Variable™. You can kneel with both shins supported, place one foot on the floor, or sit with both feet on the floor. Try different positions and change them throughout the day. Variable™ is designed to give you the freedom to find and vary the positions that feel right for you.
Can I use Variable™ without kneeling?
Yes. Although Variable™ is often called a kneeling chair, you do not have to kneel continuously. You can place one or both feet on the floor and shift between different sitting positions. The curved runners also allow you to gently rock as you sit.
Can I sit on Variable™ all day?
Variable™ is designed for everyday use, including extended periods of work. However, the idea is not to stay in one position all day. Variable™ makes it easy to shift your weight, change your leg position and move between different ways of sitting. As with any type of seating, varying your position throughout the day is recommended.
Is Variable™ good for your posture?
Variable™ is designed to support an upright sitting posture through its ergonomic design. The tilted seat creates an open hip angle, which can help position the pelvis and spine in a more upright alignment. The ability to shift position and move while sitting also means you are not confined to one static posture.
What is the difference between Variable™ and a traditional office chair?
A traditional office chair typically supports your body from behind and is designed around a more conventional seated position. Variable™ takes a different ergonomic approach. Its tilted seat, shin support and curved runners allow you to sit with an open hip angle, shift your weight and change position as you work. Instead of keeping you in one fixed posture, Variable™ is designed to give you more freedom to move while sitting.