Varier Variable Monochrome knee chair - Navy

A tribute to the Varier Variable Monochrome Stool

The same movement, but with a more understated overall look

The Varier Variable Monochrome Kneeling Chair is clearly related to the well-known Variable, but looks slightly different. Whereas the standard version shows more contrast between the wood and the upholstery, this version visually brings everything closer together. The wood, frame and upholstery blend together more seamlessly, making the chair’s shape stand out even more. This gives it a sleeker and more cohesive look, without altering the concept behind the chair.

And that is precisely the charm here. The Varier Variable Monochrome Knee Chair remains an active knee chair that invites you to move whilst sitting. Not stiffly upright, not slumped, but always in gentle motion. Nice and simple.

Why this product?

The iconic Variable, reimagined in a monochrome version

The Varier Variable Monochrome Kneeling Chair is a new version of the original Variable concept. Varier describes this version as a colourful homage to the original kneeling chair, with smooth transitions from wood to upholstery and the same dynamic seating experience as the standard Variable. So you’re not opting for a different ergonomic function, but primarily for a different look and feel of the materials.

Active sitting without mechanical adjustments

The Varier Variable Monochrome Kneeling Chair is built around the Balance® concept. The seat tilts forwards, opening up your hip angle and making it easier to remain actively seated. You can switch between a kneeling position and more traditional sitting positions, whilst the chair remains light and intuitive to use. There are no mechanical adjustment parts that need to be set up first. You sit down and the chair does what it is designed to do: allow movement.

Explanation of use

The kneeling position is just one of the ways to sit

With the Varier Variable Monochrome Kneeling Chair, it’s not about staying in one position for as long as possible. Quite the opposite. The cushions under the seat are there to support your shins and help you maintain balance, not to bear your entire weight. Most of your weight should simply rest on the seat. You can sit on your knees, place one foot on the floor, keep both feet on the floor, or sit in a more traditional way in between. That variety makes all the difference.

The chair moves with small changes in posture

The curved runners create a gentle rocking motion. As a result, the Varier Variable Monochrome Knee Chair responds to small shifts in your body. Lean forward slightly when you’re concentrating on your work, then sit back and stretch out for a moment. The chair follows your movements naturally. This makes sitting less static and often more comfortable during work or study sessions.

Ergonomic benefits

The Varier Variable Monochrome Knee Chair helps you not by locking you into a single ‘correct’ posture, but by enabling movement. The tilted seat supports a more open sitting angle, the shin support provides stability, and the runners encourage subtle movement. This allows your spine to adopt a natural curve more easily, similar to how it sits when you are standing upright.

Varier also states that the chair can help reduce strain on the lower back and ease tension in the neck and shoulders. Especially if you find that sitting still for long periods quickly wears you out, the Varier Variable Monochrome Knee Chair can be a welcome change.

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The main difference lies in the finish and upholstery

The biggest difference between this version and the standard Variable lies mainly in the materials and appearance. The Varier Variable Monochrome Knee Chair is upholstered in ONE by Fidivi, a knitted fabric made from 100% recycled polyester derived from post-consumer plastic waste. The fabric is made in Italy, feels soft to the touch, has a subtle sheen and, with a Martindale rating of 100,000, is also designed for daily use. Furthermore, the wood and upholstery blend together more seamlessly, giving the chair a more sculptural appearance.

Quick measurement

The Varier Variable Monochrome Knee Chair can be used with standard desks approximately 71 to 76 cm high. Varier also provides guidelines for a body height of approximately 150 to 205 cm and a maximum load of 110 kg. So be sure to check whether your desk height fits these specifications. If your work surface is significantly higher or lower, this combination is less suitable.

A gradual approach is still wise

The advice for the Varier Variable Monochrome Knee Chair is also to change your posture regularly. Varier recommends frequently changing positions, standing up briefly in between, and building up usage gradually if a kneeling chair is new to you. Especially at the start, your core and back muscles may feel tired more quickly. That’s not surprising. Your body often needs time to get used to this more active way of sitting.

Easy to assemble

Pros and cons

•  The same active sitting experience as the standard Variable
•  Monochrome finish with a more understated look
•  Upholstered with ONE by Fidivi, made from recycled polyester
•  Lightweight design without mechanical adjustment parts
•  Less ideal if you’re mainly looking for a classic-looking office chair

In short: the Varier Variable Monochrome Knee Chair is an ergonomic knee chair for active sitting at a standard desk. Important: suitable for desk tops of approx. 71 to 76 cm and for users of approx. 150 to 205 cm.

Key specifications

Key dimensions: 52 x 72 x 51 cm, seat height 50 cm, weight including box 6.3 kg, desk height 71–76 cm, load capacity up to 110 kg.

In short: the Varier Variable Monochrome Knee Chair is particularly helpful for active and less static sitting. The table below shows where your body benefits most from this.

How happy will my body be with this?

Score summary: Hips 5/5, Back 5/5, Neck 4/5, Shoulders 4/5.

Product features

•  Monochrome version of the well-known Variable
•  Design by Peter Opsvik, monochrome version from 2024
•  Part of the balans® concept
•  Supports kneeling and more traditional sitting positions
•  Curved runners for a subtle rocking motion
•  Tilted seat for a more open hip angle
•  Two cushions under the seat to support the shins or legs
•  Made from beech plywood with an ash wood top layer
•  Finished with water-based varnish
•  Upholstered with ONE by Fidivi
•  Fabric made from 100% recycled polyester
•  OEKO-TEX certified
•  Complies with the Global Recycled Standard
•  Soft fabric with a slight sheen
•  100,000 Martindale for everyday use
•  Made in Europe

Downloads

What’s in the box?

•  1 x Varier Variable Monochrome Knee Chair
•  1 x Assembly instructions

Frequently asked questions