How Long Should Your Quality Furniture Last?
A Guide to Investing in Longevity with High-Quality Furniture Brands
When considering furniture for your home, it's essential to think long-term. High-end, Scandinavian design-influenced furniture—like the furniture offered by Fjords—isn't just a purchase; it's an investment.
The initial cost of high-quality furniture brands may seem high compared to other options, but it's important to consider the long-term benefits. Quality furniture isn't just about aesthetics. It’s also about durability, comfort and a timeless design that stays relevant through various life stages.
The Cost-Effectiveness of Quality Furniture
The adage "you get what you pay for" holds especially true in the world of furniture. While the upfront cost of high-quality pieces may be higher, they prove to be more cost-effective in the long run. Instead of constantly replacing poorly made furniture, investing in well-crafted pieces from high-quality furniture brands means you won't have to worry about frequent replacements.
Brands like Fjords offer furniture that combines ergonomic design with enduring style. This ensures that your pieces won't just be comfortable and functional but will also stand the test of time.
>> More to read: 6 Reasons to Choose a Fjords Sofa for Your Next Furniture Purchase
The Importance of Materials and Craftsmanship
High-quality furniture materials and craftsmanship are at the heart of long-lasting furniture. Fjords, for example, emphasizes the use of premium materials and expert craftsmanship in our pieces. The use of durable materials, like our high-grade leathers, ensures that furniture can withstand daily use and minor accidents, which is especially important for growing families.
Let’s break down one of the unique advantages of Fjords’ high-quality furniture materials.
We cold-cure molded foam into the exact shape of the product. This makes your furniture more durable. And it means the furniture keeps its appearance longer compared to those made with block foam. After a few years of everyday use, block foam tends to lose suppleness, making it softer and less ergonomic. However, our cast-molded, cold-cure foam retains its suppleness and ergonomic properties much longer in comparison.
Suitable for Every Stage of Life
One of the key advantages of high-end furniture is its adaptability to different stages of life. Whether you're single, expanding your family or entering your golden years, quality furniture can adapt to your changing needs.
The durability and ease of maintenance of products like Fjords' furniture make them ideal for households with children or pets. Moreover, the timeless design of Scandinavian-influenced furniture ensures that it never goes out of style, no matter how your life or tastes evolve.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Maintaining your high-end furniture is crucial to ensure its longevity. Proper care, which includes regular cleaning and protecting the materials, can significantly extend the life of your pieces.
Fjords offers comprehensive guides on fabric and leather furniture care to help you keep your investment in top condition. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your furniture remains a beautiful and functional part of your home for years to come.
Choose Fjords
Investing in high-quality furniture is not just about buying a product; it's about investing in your lifestyle, comfort and the aesthetic of your home.
So, wondering where to buy quality furniture?
At Fjords, you can get more than a piece of furniture. You'll get a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing piece that will serve your home well throughout the years.
Find a Fjords furniture dealer near you today to experience relaxation made beautiful.
Fjords Furniture Picks Based on Your Interior Design Style
Narrowing down your choices of furniture can be tricky. So, before you feel the need to look at every single chair, recliner and sofa that Fjords offers, why not narrow down your options based on your interior design style?
We’ve listed our top three furniture pieces for the following interior design styles: Scandinavian, boho, modern farmhouse, trendy, mid-century modern and biophilic.
Let’s start with the obvious ... Scandinavian design style.
Scandinavian Design Furniture
Originating from the Nordic countries, this style emphasizes clean lines, functionality and simplicity. It features neutral colors (especially whites and grays), natural materials like wood and leather and minimalistic decor. There's an emphasis on comfort, with cozy textiles like wool and sheepskins often present.
All of Fjords furniture hints at Scandinavian design at the minimum. However, these three pieces really reflect the aesthetic of clean lines and natural materials.
Nordic 3 Seat
Bohemian Furniture Style
This eclectic and free-spirited style draws inspiration from around the world, combining patterns, textures and colors in a seemingly unplanned way. It often incorporates vintage furniture, global accents and plants. The aesthetic exudes an artistic, relaxed and unconventional vibe.
Our sleek furniture allows your bohemian style pieces to really pop. The clean lines and simple fabrics help your boho style to stand out while providing a relaxing space to chill at the end of the day.
Admiral C
Modern Farmhouse Furniture
A blend of traditional rustic and modern design elements, this style showcases a cozy, welcoming charm. It features natural textures, wood beams, metal accents and a neutral color palette often punctuated with navy blues or soft greens. Shiplap, barn doors and apron sinks are some commonly associated features.
Up the cozy level with these pieces from Fjords. The recliners and reclining sofas featured rounded edges with angular stitching. Add a touch of color with Axel or pull in additional natural elements with Falcon.
Falcon
Trendy Furniture
Trendy interiors focus on what's "in" at the moment, adapting to the latest styles, colors and design innovations. This style can change rapidly based on current cultural aesthetics and might incorporate elements from other design styles in unique ways. Metallic accents, bold color combinations and unconventional layouts or materials can often be seen in this style.
The beauty of Fjords furniture is that it rarely goes out of style. These high-quality pieces offer years of relaxation while complementing your trendy décor style.
Spinnaker
Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Dating back to the mid-20th century, this style is characterized by its clean, uncluttered lines, functional forms and an organic approach to modernism. It incorporates natural wood, bold colors and geometric patterns.
Many of our pieces hint at years past—because of their timeless design inspiration. These sofas and chairs incorporate those famous lines and mixed materials that can blend seamlessly with your vintage pieces. \
Bravo
Biophilic Furniture
This design trend focuses on bringing the outdoors in. It often involves integrating plants, natural lighting, nature views and organic materials into the interior to promote well-being. The aesthetic makes the space feel more alive and refreshing.
These pieces by Fjords highlight curved, organic lines and shapes. They combine textiles, wood and metal elements that would feel right at home in a biophilic space filled with sunlight, plants and other natural elements.
Blinken
Furniture for Any Interior Design Style
Not only do interior design trends change over time, but so do your own tastes and preferences. If you’re looking for high-quality furniture that can be incorporated into nearly any interior design style, give Fjords a try.
Find a Fjords furniture dealer near you today to experience relaxation made beautiful.
Top 13 Furniture Material Colors for a Fall/Winter Home Décor Palette
Warm, cozy nights and the rustling of leaves outside signal the transition from the vibrant energy of summer to the snug embrace of fall and winter. As nature shifts its palette, so do our interiors.
At Fjords, we understand the importance of harmonizing your home with the changing seasons—or simply with your favorite season. We’ve drawn inspiration from nature to curate the top 13 fabric and leather material colors inspired by fall’s warm and cozy color palette and a cool winter color palette.
From the soft whispers of our fabrics to the rich undertones of our leathers, dive into a world where nature and design intertwine.
Fall Flora & Fauna
Immerse yourself in the beauty of an autumnal tapestry full of rich hues, warm-tone colors and textures that signal a change in the winds.
Winter Blues & Other Hues
As we begin to feel the pull of hibernation, cool tones and warm accents start calling. Incorporate these in your Fjords furniture for year-round coziness.
Holiday Party Hues
Celebrate the festive season year-round with colors that evoke the joy, warmth and sparkle of holiday gatherings.
Add these Hues to Your Home
At Fjords, we are ever inspired by nature’s beauty. The range of our materials demonstrates a full cozy color palette of seasonal hues that are stunning all year long. Whether you’re looking for the warmth of fall colors or the cool coziness of winter, Fjords furniture will make a relaxing statement in your home.
Find a Fjords furniture dealer near you today to experience the relaxation.
Norwegian Furniture Design: Explore its Fascinating History
Norway is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and Scandinavian designed aesthetic. It also made significant contributions to the world of furniture design.
Norwegian furniture design reflects the country's deep-rooted connection to nature, emphasis on functionality and minimalist, yet elegant, style.
In this post, we will explore the captivating history of Norwegian Furniture design, tracing its evolution from traditional craftsmanship to the modern, innovative creations that have gained international acclaim.
The Influence of Craftsmanship
The history of Norwegian furniture design is intertwined with Norway's tradition of craftsmanship. The art of woodworking has been passed down through generations, and it's influence can be seen in the intricate details, precision joinery and high-quality materials used in Norwegian furniture.
From the ornate carvings of the 18th century to the clean lines and simplicity of later styles, craftsmanship has always been at the core of Norwegian furniture design. Furniture designers take pride in creating pieces that are not only visually appealing, but also built to last.
National Romanticism and Folklore
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Norwegian furniture design was heavily influenced by the National Romantic movement, which sought to celebrate and preserve the country's cultural heritage.
Designers drew inspiration from Norwegian folklore, nature and traditional crafts, resulting in furniture characterization by intricate patterns, vibrant colors and a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.
This era gave rise to iconic pieces that incorporated elements of traditional Norwegian design, such as the "rosemaling" technique, a style of decorative painting.
The Modernist Movement
Following World War II, Norway experienced a shift toward modernism in furniture design. Influenced by international trends, designers embraced simplicity, functionality and clean lines.
Figures like Fredrik Kayser, Hans Brattrud and Torbjørn Afdal played pivotal roles in shaping the modernist movement in Norway. They created minimalist yet visually striking pieces that seamlessly merged form and function. These pieces often featured organic shapes, ergonomic designs and the use of innovative materials.
One notable example is the "Scandia" chair by Brattrud, which became an iconic representation of Norwegian modernist design.
Sustainable Design and Nature
Norwegian furniture design has long been influenced by the country's commitment to sustainability and its close relationship with nature.
Designers tend to incorporate organic shapes, natural materials like wood and leather and eco-friendly production techniques. They strive to minimize ecological impact through the use of natural and renewable materials, such as locally sourced wood, leather and textiles. Additionally, designers focus on eco-friendly production techniques, including responsible sourcing, energy efficiency and waste reduction.
Contemporary Innovations
In recent years, Norwegian furniture design has continued to evolve, embracing innovation and pushing boundaries.
Today's designers are combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques and materials to create unique, functional and aesthetically pleasing pieces. They are exploring new materials, experimenting with forms and pushing the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship. The fusion of traditional techniques with modern manufacturing processes allows for the creation of unique and visually stunning furniture pieces.
Fjords: Norwegian Furniture Designs for the Future
The history of Norwegian furniture design is a captivating journey that reflects the country's commitment to craftsmanship, functionality and sustainability.
The Fjords brand was established for the future, with equal parts modern technology and traditional craftsmanship. Technology maintains and improves product quality, but it is people who make the products special.
We are also proud of our Norwegian traditions – something we are carrying with us into the future. Combining this with the ability to think creatively and to be curious and innovative, we don't just follow the trends—we set them as well.
Discover the renowned history of Norwegian furniture design at a Fjords dealer near you or explore our furniture collections online.
6 Reasons to Choose a Fjords Sofa for Your Next Furniture Purchase
Shopping for a new sofa can be daunting. With seemingly endless options available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.
However, there's a furniture brand that consistently stands out among the rest for its high quality, innovative design, and unparalleled comfort: Fjords.
Let's dive into the top six reasons why you should choose a Fjords sofa to complete your home.
1. Scandinavian Design
The clean lines, minimalistic aesthetic and functional approach of Scandinavian design are embodied in each Fjords sofa. These are not just pieces of furniture; they are meticulously crafted expressions of art that add a sophisticated touch to your space.
The beauty of the design lies in its simplicity – a simplicity that accentuates comfort without compromising on style.
2. Ergonomic Seating Experience
Fjords sofas are designed with your comfort and health in mind. Ergonomically designed, these sofas perfectly contour to your body, providing optimal support and reducing the strain on your muscles and joints.
We use molded polyurethane foam that fits the exact shape of the furniture. This cold-cure foam retains its shape and structure much longer than block foam. Since our furniture holds up over time, your ergonomic seating experience will too.
3. Available in Different Seat Configurations
Whatever your space or seating needs, we have you covered.
Fjords sofas come in different seat configurations, from cozy two-seaters perfect for small living rooms to larger modular sofas ideal for spacious open-plan areas.
Additionally, optional table or sectional wedges can be added for extra convenience and style. Whether you're hosting a movie night or simply enjoying a relaxing Sunday, there's a sofa to suit your needs.
4. Motorized Reclining Movement for End Seats
The Fjords reclining sofas in our Relax Collection feature motorized reclining movement for the end seats. You no longer have to struggle with manual reclining mechanisms. At the press of a button, you can effortlessly adjust your position for maximum comfort.
Plus, these sofas incorporate our innovative Wall Saver mechanism. Unlike traditional reclining sofas that require ample space between the sofa and the wall, this mechanism allows the sofa to recline while remaining close to the wall, saving valuable floor space.
5. Customizable Elements for the Perfect Fit
With Fjords sofas, you're not just buying a piece of furniture—you’re designing a lifestyle. Our sofas offer customizable elements that allow you to tailor your furniture to your unique style.
Choose from different arm and leg styles, a wide range of fabrics and various modular layouts. We even offer matching chairs and ottomans for select sofas in our Norsk Collection.
Despite this variety, each piece stays true to Fjords' signature Norwegian design and modern aesthetic. You’re sure to find the perfect fit for your style.
6. Wide Availability
The final advantage (at least in this list) is the availability of Fjords furniture. We have dealers across North America, making it easy for you to explore your options and ask any questions you may have.
Fjords’ sofas offer unparalleled comfort, timeless Scandinavian design, variety and customization and more. They’re an ideal choice for your next furniture purchase.
Find a Fjords dealer near you today.
Benefits of Ergonomic Chairs with Lumbar Support
Norwegian furniture design is renowned worldwide for its impeccable craftsmanship, elegant simplicity and unparalleled comfort. In an age where health and wellbeing are taking center stage, Fjords goes beyond aesthetics to ensure our furniture designs provide not only a luxurious appeal but also ergonomic benefits.
One important benefit is correct lumbar support. It is a crucial aspect of furniture design that is often overlooked - yet it is a game changer for overall health and wellbeing.
Keep reading to find out why you should invest in an ergonomic chair wit lumbar support.
The Lumbar Spine and Its Importance
Before diving into the design aspects, lets briefly discuss the lumbar region. The lumbar spine is located in the lower back. it consists of five vertebrae known as L1 through L5. They carry the most body weight and are the most flexible, which is why they are the most susceptible to injury and pain.
In today's increasingly sedentary lifestyles, with long hours spent in front of screens, maintaining correct posture is paramount to prevent discomfort and chronic issues such as lower back pain.
That's where the concept of lumbar support steps in.
Lumbar Support: An Ergonomic Necessity
Lumbar support helps maintain the natural inward curvature of the lower spine. This prevents the lower back from chronic straining. Without appropriate support, prolonged sitting can lead to slumping, which causes the lumbar spine to flatten. This leads to discomfort, pain and potential long-term damage.
But how do we provide a chair for back support?
How can furniture be designed to uphold the principles of ergonomics without compromising on the exquisite allure that is synonymous with Scandinavian design?
Norwegian Design Meets Ergonomics
At Fjords, we harmoniously merge the science of ergonomics with the art of our traditional Norwegian furniture design. Our priority is to ensure that our pieces are not only beautiful in your home but also beneficial to your health.
Each item is meticulously designed and constructed to support the natural contour of your spine, focusing heavily on providing superior lumbar support.
We use premium materials that adapt to your body, providing a unique blend of firmness and flexibility. Our designs provide enough resistance to support your lower back, while also offering the flexibility to move and breathe, allowing the user to comfortably settle into the furniture for extended periods.
Designing for Lumbar Support
An ergonomically correct chair will provide continuous support and comfort. It will relax your body, enabling your blood to circulate more freely. As your back relaxes, your spine is gently supported in the right places and at the correct angle.
When designing a chair for back support—specifically lumbar support—we pay close attention to the following features.
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Contoured Backrests
Our chairs and sofas are designed with a slightly arched backrest to mimic the natural curve of the spine, providing support precisely where it's needed.
Fjords recliners allow continuous reclining of the back and provide comprehensive support to prevent tiredness in your legs and back. Your individual resting position is easily achieved by moving your body.
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Adjustability
People come in all shapes and sizes, and so should our furniture. Many of our recliners are available in two sizes.
All of our recliners feature the Active Release System™, a unique, built-in mechanism that automatically provides the best neck and back support. If desired, it can easily be adjusted by a single movement to further enhance your seating experience.
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High-Quality Materials
Block foam tends to lose its suppleness after a few years of everyday use. This makes it softer—and less supportive—as time passes. At Fjords, we mold polyurethane foam into the shape of your furniture. This cold-cure foam retains its shape and structure much longer than block foam.
Our furniture holds up over time, so it can comfortably support your spine for years.
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Aesthetically Pleasing
Finally, while ergonomics and comfort are crucial, we don't overlook the importance of visual appeal. We ensure that each piece upholds the elegant, clean lines and timeless appeal of Scandinavian design.
Enhancing Your Wellbeing
Our commitment to these principles results in beautifully crafted furniture that supports your body, promotes good health and enhances your living spaces.
Want to experience it for yourself? Find a Fjords dealer near you today.
How to Clean Leather Furniture
A Guide to Caring for Leather Chairs and Sofas
Once your new Fjords recliner or sofa arrives and is assembled in your home, the fear of getting them dirty may take over. However, we didn’t design beautiful furniture just for you to longingly stare at it. We want you and your family to enjoy the comfort and relaxation it brings.
So, here are some tips on how to clean leather furniture (since that’s our top-selling material), along with guidelines on what to do when something goes wrong.
Cleaning Leather Furniture
Whether you’re looking for general upkeep of your furniture or want to tackle a spill or stain, we have some tips and tricks for keeping high-quality leather looking good.
What is the best way to clean a leather sofa?
To keep your leather sofa or chair looking good all year long, dust it monthly. Simply use a dry cloth to remove dust, then follow up with a leather conditioner or leather cleaning product. This will keep the material soft and prevent minor cracks and stains from becoming permanent.
How to Clean Leather Furniture Naturally
Wondering what the best homemade leather cleaner is? The easiest homemade leather cleaner can be made from two natural ingredients: equal parts white vinegar and warm water. If you have a stubborn stain, blotting a mixture of water and mild dish soap can help. (Don’t aggressively scrub a stain though—that could damage the leather.)
Our leather furniture features a protective coating, so the best homemade leather cleaner may simply be a paper towel or clean cloth if addressed quickly enough.
What household products can you use to clean leather?
For dark stains such as ink, dip a cotton swab in rubbing alcohol, then gently massage it on the stain. Be sure to stay directly on the stain so the discoloring doesn’t spread. For protein-based stains (from food or blood), create a paste from two parts cornstarch and one part lemon juice. Another trick is to lightly rub a stain with non-gel, white toothpaste. (Opt for a soft cloth instead of your toothbrush, though.)
Be cautious of quickly grabbing an all-purpose cleaner in a rush to clean a spill or efficiently tidy up your living room. General household cleaners can be made with ingredients that will damage your leather.
If you’re nervous about using a cleaning product or method on your leather, simply first test it out on an inconspicuous part of the furniture.
What should you not use on leather?
Oil-based products should not be used on leather. Also, stay away from products that are not specifically formulated for leather furniture. Specific leather cleansers or conditioners may be more powerful than what you need for the delicate leather used for furniture.
How to Clean Fabric Upholstery
At Fjords, we offer a variety of non-leather options for our recliners, chairs, and sofas. Cleaning fabric upholstery is a little less intimidating than leather, but here are a few tips.
When you vacuum your floors, take a quick pass over your furniture. Be sure to use the upholstery attachment so you don’t damage the chair or sofa. Fabric stain removers and a clean cloth are great to have on hand for when an accidental stain occurs.
Want to clean the entire upholstery? Rent a commercial upholstery cleaner or make a solution of water and a small amount of laundry detergent. If you choose the latter, apply the solution with a cloth or sponge and then gently scrub the fabric with a soft brush. Let the fabric air dry completely before sitting down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here is some additional insight into caring for your Fjords furniture.
What do you do when there is a tear in the leather?
The leather we use is quite durable. However, there may come a time when you forget something in your back pocket or a sharp item is hiding under a blanket. Because we use high-quality aniline leather, the visibility of cuts and tears will be minimized.
During the aniline dyeing process, the color goes through multiple layers of leather. So, when the top layer is sliced open, the exposed layers will have the same color. With lower quality leathers, the underlying layers would most likely be a lighter color, and therefore cause the cut to visually standout more.
What do you do when you notice the leather fading?
Over time, low-quality leather will fade if exposed to direct sunlight. If that happens, you’re not looking at a piece of Fjords furniture. We use top grain leather on all exposed parts of the recliner or sofa.
Other brands will use split leather or even vinyl for the back of the furniture and side panels. This helps reduce the cost, but in a few years, you’ll have a multicolored chair or sofa.
What types of leather does Fjords offer?
At Fjords, we only use the top grain, cowhide leather. We offer three different lines: Nordic, Soft, and Astro.
The Nordic Line will have the least amount of corrected imperfections. On the other hand, the Astro Line will have been corrected in multiple areas by buffing out an imperfection and embossing a grain pattern onto the treated area.
Do you offer a warranty on your leather furniture?
Our leather furniture comes with a two-year warranty on the fabric. This is at least a year more than what most manufacturers offer. Our warranty is good for any color coming off or stitching coming undone. If that happens, please don’t hesitate to reach out.