Whether you’re drawn to its papal pedigree or simply seeking a design investment, Stressless® delivers a luxury seating experience that truly lives up to its name. Rooted in the scenic fjords of Norway, the brand has made its mark not just in living rooms but in the sacred space of the Popemobile. Now, the iconic vehicle has been transformed into a mobile health clinic for the Palestinian children of war-torn Gaza. As reported by The Washington Post, this was driven by humanitarian groups seeking to honour the late Pope Francis through action, not just words.
The world continues to mourn the passing of Pope Francis, a beloved spiritual figure of peace and compassion, whose humility, activism, and message of mercy inspired millions across faiths and borders. As Vatican correspondent Francesca Merlo poignantly expressed, “The death of Pope Francis has sent waves of sorrow across continents and communities. From heads of state to religious leaders, tributes have been pouring in for the man who walked with the poor, prayed with the suffering, and fought tirelessly for the hope of peace in our fractured world.”
Even in the aftermath of this loss, an unexpected story has emerged—the remarkable journey of the Stressless® chair. During a papal visit to Mexico in 1998, it was chosen as the throne for Pope John Paul II aboard a custom-built Cadillac Deville Popemobile. Constructed by General Motors, the vehicle featured a pristine white Stressless® chair, selected for its unmatched comfort and ergonomic design. With its patented Glide system, superior lumbar support, and seamless functionality, it’s fit for a pontiff, as both mobility and rest are prioritised for long travel.
That very chair, built for sanctity and stature, has found a new purpose in 2025. The once-ceremonial Popemobile has been lovingly converted into a mobile medical unit for Gazan children, bringing vaccines, medicine, and relief to families living through unimaginable hardships. The transformation is both symbolic and functional—a sacred vehicle reimagined for service, the papal throne now a seat for healing as Pope Francis would have wanted. It serves as a profound reminder that good design, like faith, evolves to meet the needs of the present.
At the heart of this legacy is the Stressless® brand, a pioneer in the art of relaxation and engineering. Founded in 1934 by Jens Ekornes, the brand began as a humble furniture workshop and has since grown into an icon of Scandinavian innovation. When the first Stressless® recliner was released in 1971, it revolutionised the way we think about seating—not just as furniture, but as a form of well-being. Each piece is designed to adapt to your body, offering support where you need it most while maintaining sleek silhouettes and luxe finishes.
Today, the company’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship lives on at XTRA Furniture, the exclusive Malaysian retailer for Stressless®.
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