Gravity Balans and Ekstrem are the two big-format chairs in the Varier line — both Peter Opsvik designs, both Norwegian, both built for resting rather than focused desk work. Gravity is the zero-gravity recliner with a kneeling-to-reclined range of motion. Ekstrem is the postmodern accent lounge from 1984. Neither is an ergonomic kneeling chair in the desk sense; both are part of the Opsvik portfolio that takes active sitting beyond the workday.
This page sits inside the broader comparison hub. If you have a desk seat already and are looking at the Opsvik line for the room next door, this is the read.
At a glance
| Axis | Gravity Balans | Ekstrem |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Zero-gravity recliner with kneeling base | Postmodern Norwegian accent lounge |
| Designer | Peter Opsvik | Terje Ekstrøm (1984), Varier production |
| Use | Reclining and reading; active recovery | Statement seating; reading; lounging |
| Price band | ~$2,330–$3,000+ | ~$3,700–$3,999 |
| Visual presence | Sculptural, multi-position | Iconic postmodern silhouette |
The functional difference
Gravity is engineered for movement — kneeling, sitting, reclining, all in one chair. The Ekstrem is engineered for stillness in a sculptural form. They look like different things because they are.
Side by side
Range of motion. Gravity moves through several positions, including a zero-gravity recline that lifts the legs above the heart. Ekstrem stays in one position — though that position is unlike any other chair in the room.
Visual register. Gravity reads as Norwegian active-seating sculpture. Ekstrem reads as postmodern statement furniture; it is the chair you place in the corner of a room and let it be the room’s focal point.
Audience. Gravity for the buyer who wants the active-sitting principle extended into a recliner. Ekstrem for the design-led shopper looking for an icon.
Which is right for you?
Choose Gravity if you want the kneeling-to-reclined range of motion and intend to use the chair across multiple modes. Choose Ekstrem if you want the postmodern statement piece and the chair in question is going in a living room or studio rather than at a desk. Both are at the top of the Varier price band; both are made to last decades. The postmodern accent chair page covers Ekstrem in more depth; the zero-gravity recliner page covers Gravity.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ekstrem comfortable for hours?
Yes — the design is sculptural but not punishing. It rewards a particular sitting style; once you find it, the chair holds.
Can I use Gravity at a desk?
Not really. Gravity is too large and too reclined for desk work. It pairs with a desk chair like the Variable for desk-to-recline transitions.
Are these chairs reupholsterable?
Both can be re-upholstered as part of normal furniture care. Norwegian production targets multi-decade product life; reupholstery is part of that lifespan.
Is Ekstrem still in production?
Yes. Varier carries the Ekstrem forward as part of the Opsvik design portfolio, with continuous production.
How big is the Gravity footprint?
Larger than any kneeling chair. Plan for the recliner depth when reclined; the chair takes up more floor than a desk chair would.
