Shopping Local Builds Stronger Communities

At LIFEFORM, we handcraft each of our ergonomic office chairs in Canada using North American-made components.  This practice ensures we minimize our environmental footprint while building stronger local communities.

Buying locally is like having good posture…  Small adjustments keep our communities balanced and supported for long-term resilience. 

Executive Chairs Rooted in Community

Just as ergonomic design begins with a strong foundation, so does community impact.  Our roots run deep in local craftsmanship and partnerships, which strengthen our communities, the places we choose to live and work.  Supporting local is good business and good stewardship; the more united we are, the more we thrive as individuals and as a collective.

Every purchase you make from a local vendor is a seed planted for a stronger, more vibrant community.  It empowers the people who directly contribute to their neighbours’ well-being, who in turn then pay it forward to the next neighbour.  If we all followed this practice, each dollar would be re-circulated, and the uniqueness of local cultures and communities would be preserved, celebrated, and supported.  Economies then become resilient and self-sustaining, and the environment sees the benefit.

Choosing local products creates a ripple that extends far beyond the point of purchase.  It fuels local economies, supports families, and encourages sustainable practices that benefit communities globally.  Every conscious choice has a lasting impact.

Office Chairs for Environmental Stability

By supporting local businesses, your hard-earned dollar also goes toward environmentally conscious practices, such as those we are passionate about at LIFEFORM:

• Source close to home.  By using North American made components, we reduce carbon emissions from long-distance transport while ensuring high-quality standards.
• Choose consciously.  Our Carbon Neutral Leather options and Certified Indoor Air Quality Gold Standard fabrics reflect our care for the planet and our customers’ personal health and well-being.
• Reimagine waste.  We’ve developed recycled plastic frames that divert materials from landfills and transform them into strong, long-lasting components.
• Innovate responsibly.  Through Additive Manufacturing Technology, we minimize waste and maximize precision.
• Design with purpose.  Our 100% recycled polyester upholstery showcases our ongoing commitment to sustainable, forward-thinking craftsmanship.

These mindful, intentional choices are the focus of our brand, minimizing waste, reducing our footprint, and helping build an environment as resilient as the communities we serve.

Comfort That Extends Beyond the Chair

And why should this matter to you?  Because every chair you choose from LIFEFORM is a vote for a world where communities thrive and where our planet is nurtured.  Every time you settle into the comfort of our custom, handmade, ergonomic office chairs, you become a partner in weaving a world that mirrors these values.

Join us today for a free chair fitting consultation and let’s make every seat count for something that supports your body and your community.

The Complete Guide to Leather Upholstery Care

Despite its bad name in some circles, leather is a by-product of the meat industry and saves many hides from being thrown away or destroyed. The hides used in LIFEFORM® products are never sourced from animals harvested specifically for leather, making it more sustainable and ecologically friendly than most plastic alternatives.

Secondly, it lasts longer and retains its quality rather than peeling and cracking.  To keep it looking its best for years to come, and help it age gracefully, it requires some maintenance and basic upkeep.

This guide breaks down the following types of leather used in LIFEFORM seating and exactly how to care for each one:

1. Shearling & Hair-on-Hide Leathers
2. Natural Finish Leathers (Full Grain Natural – Grade 8)
3. Waxed Finish Leathers (Full Grain Waxed – Grade 8)
4. Protected Finish Leathers (Enhanced Aniline – Grade 7)

Always spot-test any cleaning method in an inconspicuous area first.  LIFEFORM is not responsible for damage caused during cleaning.

1.  Shearling and Hair-on-Hide Leather Care

These luxurious natural hides are prized for their organic texture and warmth.  Shearling is a soft, cozy wool that serves as the perfect cover for any chair or accessory.  Hair-on-Hide leathers feature natural fur patterns and bring depth and elegance to any piece.  Since these leathers still have their original fibers, they require gentle handling and specific care.

Basic Care for Shearling & Hair-on-Hide leather

• Dust Periodically
  Dust is drying to natural leather.  Doing routine light vacuuming helps prevent dust buildup and therefore prevents the leather from drying out.  These leathers capture dust particularly well in their natural fibers, but too strong a vacuum can damage the hair.  Therefore, use a light setting and vacuum often.
• Limit Direct Sunlight
  UV exposure can fade and dehydrate the hide.  If unavoidable, consider a blanket or cover when not using your chair to keep it shaded.
• Contain Spills Quickly
  Excess water can stain or darken the fur.  See below for more detailed descriptions.

Minor Spills

Blot rather than rub for spot treatments.  Use a clean, dry cloth and avoid any agitation while the chair is damp.  The natural fibers can trap materials such as spills, so rubbing will only spread spills and possibly damage the wool or hair.

Stubborn Stains

For stains that require a chemical treatment, use a mild soap solution (3 parts water, 1 part mild detergent like Dawn or Palmolive) sparingly.  However, be sure to contain the spill first to prevent spreading.

What to remember for Shearling and Hair-on-Hide Leathers

These leathers are some of the most comfortable and luxurious materials for upholstery, so make sure you handle them with care.  They require delicate handling as not to pull the hair or fur out of the hide.  That being said, with proper attention, they will serve you beautifully for years, inspiring you with their natural qualities and warmth.

2. Natural Finish Leather Care

Examples: Sonoma, Harness

Natural finish leathers undergo minimal processing, preserving the hide’s authentic markings, wrinkles, scars, and unique grain patterns. Over time, these leathers develop a rich patina that reflects their journey and your daily use.  Since they have less processing than typical leathers, it’s important to care for them appropriately so preserve their natural beauty and suppleness.

Basic Care for Natural Finish Leather

• Dust with a Damp Cloth 

The natural grooves and grain of this leather may capture dust when left unused. Again, dust can dry the leather, so wipe frequently with a clean duster or a slightly damp cloth to remove dust buildup.

• Limit Direct Sunlight

Unlike hair-on-hide leathers, there are no fibers to protect against UV rays. Consider a blanket or cover if your chair is placed near a window with direct sunlight.

• Condition Every 6–12 Months

Apply the recommended amount of dedicated leather conditioner to a soft cloth and rub it in using circular motions.  Then leave to dry and the leather will absorb the conditioner leaving it bright and smooth.  See below for recommended cleaning and conditioner products.

Minor Spots & Spills

Blot immediately, then lightly wipe the entire panel with lukewarm water (not just the stain).  Do not use soap.

Stubborn Stains

Use a leather cleaner formulated specifically for natural leather, followed by a conditioner.  When in doubt, hire a professional.

Oil, Butter & Grease

Blot excess and let the rest absorb naturally.  Do not use water.

Avoid Using:

Saddle soap, solvents, furniture polish, detergents, ammonia, or any non-recommended cleaners.

Recommended Leather Cleaner and Conditioner

Leather Soft Cleaner is a delicate detergent that penetrates and cleans the surface of the leather but does not affect the original quality of the leather or its finish.

Oleosa is a conditioning cream specially designed to restore and maintain the feel of oiled and pull-up leathers.  Apply it with a sponge or with a spray bottle to help soften the leather, refresh its natural finish, and reduce the appearance of everyday scratches and fading.  It also provides added water resistance, helping protect the leather over time.

Note that Oleosa can slightly reduce the waxed appearance of some oil-and-wax pull-up leathers.  It’s important to test it first on a hidden area to ensure you’re happy with the result.

3. Waxed Finish Leather Care

Examples: Mont Blanc, Embossed Brompton Jeff’s Weave, Venetian Triumph

These leathers feature a waxed surface that gives them a rugged, heritage look, similar to the character of a well-loved leather boot. Natural markings are intentionally visible, and over time, the waxed surface develops a deep, elegant patina.

How to Care for Waxed Finish Leather

Care instructions closely mirror natural leather, with special attention to maintaining the wax layer.

• Dust Regularly
• Limit Sunlight
• Contain Spills
• Condition Every 6–12 Months

Normal Care

Buffing or massaging scratches warms the waxes and helps them blend back into the hide.

Minor Spots & Spills

Blot immediately.  Use a lightly moistened cloth only if necessary.

Stubborn Stains

Use a leather cleaner and conditioner designed specifically for waxed leathers.

Oil or Grease

Blot excess and allow time for the oils to settle naturally.

Recommended Products

• Leather Soft Cleaner – gentle, safe cleaning
• Oleosa Conditioner – restores color, softness, and wax/oil feel
• Wax On – revives waxed finishes and reduces mild scratches

4. Protected Finish Leather Care

Examples: Hudson, Tribeca

These leathers have a pigmented protective coating that increases stain resistance and promotes uniform color.  They offer the softness of aniline leather with greater durability, ideal for family spaces, pets, and high-traffic use.

How to Care for Protected Finish Leather

• Dust Regularly
• Avoid Direct Sunlight
• Contain Spills Quickly
• Condition Every 6–12 Months

Normal Care

Wipe with a lightly damp cloth or vacuum with a soft brush.  Condition periodically to keep the surface supple.

Minor Spills

Blot immediately; use a slightly damp cloth if needed.  Avoid soap and over-wetting.

Stubborn Stains

Use a dedicated leather cleaner followed by protection cream.

Oil or Grease

Blot excess and allow it to dissipate.  Do not use water as it will worsen the spot.

Recommended Products

• Leather Soft Cleaner
• Leather Protection Cream (creates a breathable, invisible barrier against stains)

General Leather Care Principles

Regardless of leather type, a few practices apply to all:

• Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent fading
• Avoid heat sources and vents
• Dust regularly
• Blot spills and never rub
• Use only approved leather products
• Always test in a hidden area first

With the proper care routine, LIFEFORM leathers are designed to last for generations, aging gracefully and developing character as they do.

Healthy Sitting Habits for Your Workday

Every hour we spend sitting without movement is like paying a small “health tax”…  you might not notice it at first, but over time it adds up.

Investing in an ergonomic office chair is only one way to support your body.  It’s equally important to build small habits that keep you moving and help mitigate the effects of a sedentary lifestyle.

It’s hard to ignore how our modern lifestyle revolves around sitting: working at our desks, commuting in cars or on buses, eating meals, and unwinding in front of screens.  Our bodies, however, weren’t designed to stay idle.  Like a car left parked for too long, when we sit for hours without movement, our systems start to lose their charge.  Our muscles start to stiffen, circulation slows, and energy levels drop.

In this blog, we’ll be discussing the following ways to incorporate healthy sitting habits into your everyday life.

1. Finding the Right Office Chair
2. Ergonomic Desk and Chair Adjustments
3. Movement and Taking Breaks
4. Correct Sitting Posture
5. Footrests

1.  Find the Right Chair

If your body were a high-end sports car tuned for optimum performance, the right office chair is like having air in your tires.  Sitting in the wrong chair is like driving with low pressure; you might still move forward, but every mile (or hour) adds wear and tear.

LIFEFORM® Chairs are designed with high-end ergonomics to counter that strain.  They feature adjustable lumbar support, contoured seating, and customizable options that help your body stay aligned and comfortable throughout the day.  With the right chair, your system stays fluid and can keep performing at high speeds for longer periods of time.

2.  Ideal Ergonomic Desk and Chair Adjustments

Another key factor in maintaining healthy sitting habits is ensuring your desk and chair are adjusted to the right height.  Just as a car needs precise alignment to drive smoothly and avoid uneven wear, your workstation needs to be properly “tuned” to your body.  Follow these adjustments for the perfect ergonomic workstation:

• Align your desk.  Set your keyboard height so your elbows stay relaxed at about 90–110°, your forearms are level (or slightly down), and your wrists are neutral.
• Adjust your chair.   Sit so your feet rest flat (or on a footrest) and knees are around 90–110° for stable support.
• Lift your view.  Position your monitor so your eyes naturally fall on the upper third of the screen (the top at, or slightly below eye level) to reduce neck strain.

When everything is in alignment, you reduce unnecessary strain on your back, neck, shoulders, and legs.  Having your chair and desk set up for success is the first step to encouraging posture, but it takes a mindful effort as well to stay supported.

3.  Take Frequent Breaks

Posture is one thing, but just like a car that’s left idling too long, your body needs to move to stay in good working condition.  Taking regular breaks to stretch, stand, and walk around is like running the engine to keep all pistons firing, parts lubricated, and systems functioning smoothly.  These movement “tune-ups” help improve circulation, reduce muscle fatigue, and prevent the kind of stiffness and strain that build up when we stay parked for too long.

Try some of these movements to stay healthy during your workday:

• Move with every call.  Stand, pace, or walk while you talk.  A simple habit that keeps energy and focus flowing.
• Add a burst of strength.  Try quick, guided exercises like AHA’s Strength and Balance or 10-Minute Workout Anywhere to recharge your day.
• Keep resistance close.  Store light hand weights or a resistance band at your desk for simple movements that build strength and improve posture.
• Think on your feet.  Turn informal meetings or brainstorms into walking sessions.  Movement fuels creativity.
• Elevate your workspace.  Alternate between sitting and standing with a sit-stand desk.  Keep posture, comfort, and movement in balance throughout the day.

4.  Keep Good Posture

With the support of your chair and desk tuned to your specific body type, posture is the final key to your steering alignment.  This intentional posture while sitting can help reduce back and neck pain, improve breathing, and prevent long-term damage to your spine.  When everything is positioned correctly, you have better control, balance, and efficiency.

When sitting in your LIFEFORM Chair, let the adjustable lumbar support act as your suspension system, absorbing pressure and keeping your spine in its natural curve.  Keep your shoulders relaxed, your chin slightly tucked, and your spine stacked with each vertebra in line with one another.  Now you’ll stay comfortably “in the driver’s seat” of your health all day long.

5.  Invest in a Footrest

For those who find it difficult to maintain good posture, a footrest can be a valuable addition to your setup.  Just as a car needs solid traction to stay steady on the road, your body needs a stable foundation to stay properly aligned.  A footrest helps keep your feet flat and supported, improving balance, posture, and circulation while reducing pressure on your lower back.  It’s a small adjustment that makes a big difference in how smoothly your “ride” feels throughout the workday.

Incorporating healthy sitting habits into your workday is essential to maintain your physical and mental well-being, especially if you’re spending a lot of time sitting at a desk.  By using a LIFEFORM Chair and following the tips outlined above, you can create a comfortable and supportive work environment that will allow you to sit comfortably for extended periods.

If you’re looking for a chair that can help you maintain healthy sitting habits, look no further than LIFEFORM Chairs.  With our ergonomic design and adjustable features, you can sit comfortably and work efficiently without sacrificing your health.

From Saddles to Seating: A Five-Generation Craft

We’re proudly Canadian, built in Calgary, crafted by hand, and our story reaches back to Denmark in 1884.  Those roots still guide how we design, stitch, and finish every ergonomic office chair today.

Precision in the Bloodline

If our legacy were a tree, the seed was planted by Jacob Mortensen in Durup, Denmark.  His family made handmade saddles where fit, balance, and pressure relief are everything.  That same obsession with alignment and materials are the roots of LIFEFORM® to this day: start with the right ingredients, shape to the body, and build to last.

As markets modernized, Jacob’s sons evolved the workshop into the Durup Upholstered Furniture Factory, still family, still meticulous.  In 1957, Jacob’s grandson Kai Mortensen brought that craft ethos to Calgary, Alberta, where it took firm root in the cowboy capital of Canada.

Our Calgary Workshop

By the 1970s, the Mortensen craft was thriving in Calgary under Kai’s roof.  Johnny Mortensen, Kai’s son, and John Kristensen, Kai’s brother-in-law, were working as craftsmen in Kai’s shop, refining their skills on custom residential pieces.  In 1976, Johnny and John ventured out on their own and founded what would become LIFEFORM Chairs.

LIFEFORM began with made-to-order sofas and chairs until a request for a leather high-back executive chair changed our course.  That commission became our blueprint: elegance shaped for function, and function elevated by craft.

Designing for the Way People Work

By the 1980s, computers reshaped daily work.  Chairs looked the part but rarely supported the body.  We set out to build seating that did both.  Early LIFEFORM designs introduced sculpted contours that cradle the user, plus intuitive adjustments, armrests, lumbar, and tilt, so each chair could be tuned to the person, not the other way around.

Refinement, Not Mass Production

Through the 1990s, we honed our silhouettes and expanded options, task and guest chairs among them, while doubling down on what mass production can’t do, personalize.  As imports flooded the market, we moved in the opposite direction: deeper customization, richer materials, and a refined fit for the individual.

Innovation, Layered into Craft

In the 2000s we continued to integrate thoughtful technologies without sacrificing feel: temperature-regulating finishes, breathable mesh backs paired with our upholstered comfort, and adjustable seat depth to encourage healthy posture during long workdays.  Every innovation is chosen to enhance the handmade foundation, not replace it.

Why Tradition Matters Again

Fast design is wearing thin.  People are curating fewer, better pieces, and objects with story and staying power.  Our workshop approach means your chair is made for you: measured, specified, and finished to reflect your body and taste.  It’s the opposite of one-size-fits-all.

Handmade, Then Tailored

We think like tailors.  Your chair is built to measure, with options in upholstery, stitching, detailing, and fit, because comfort is personal and taste is individual.  The result is architectural and intimate, a tool that serves you quietly all day and ages with grace.

Ergonomic Office Chairs are a Craft

Ergonomics at LIFEFORM isn’t an add-on; it’s embedded.  Contoured support, adjustable features, and thoughtful materials work together to reduce pressure points and promote healthy posture. Now you can focus longer, with less fatigue, and feel better when you stand up.

An Office Chair for Life

We don’t cut down our tree of tradition, we grow it.  From saddles to seating, five generations have taught us that lasting comfort begins with honest materials, meticulous construction, and respect for the body.  That’s why we like to think of our operations as a workshop-studio, everything we make is shaped by hand, guided by heritage, and built for your life.

The Art of Craftsmanship: A Tradition of Sustainable Excellence

Since 1976, LIFEFORM® Chairs has been dedicated to the essence of artisanal craftsmanship, producing office chairs and accessories made to order, one piece at a time, in the heart of Calgary, Canada. This meticulous approach allows us to infuse each piece with the precision and care it deserves while avoiding the impersonal nature of mass production. Our local 20,000 square foot workshop is where tradition meets technology, maintaining generations of sustainable excellence. Every chair crafted here is a testament to our commitment to quality, sustainability, and the local economy.

Locally Sourced Components: Reducing Our Carbon Footprint

Our commitment to North American manufacturing is evident in our choice to predominantly utilize locally manufactured components. By eliminating the need for overseas imports, we not only support local businesses but also significantly reduce our carbon footprint. This approach reflects our dedication to sustainability and environmental responsibility. By minimizing the distance materials travel, we are able to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions, making each chair produced a greener option for our customers.

Comprehensive Recycling and Waste Reduction Programs

Sustainability at LIFEFORM® extends beyond manufacturing. We have implemented an integrated recycling program that manages manufacturing and office plastics and paper, effectively curtailing waste production. Our commitment to full-cycle resource use is further demonstrated through our composting program for food waste, turning leftovers into valuable compost. These initiatives highlight our dedication to reducing waste and promoting a circular economy within our operations.

Eco-Friendly Upgrades and Energy Efficiency

Several years ago, we revolutionized our factory with an eco-friendly upgrade, implementing LED High Bay Lights and LED Tube lighting to replace traditional systems. These changes significantly reduce our energy consumption. We also manage temperature efficiently using programmable thermostats and Infrared Heating, while an air exchanger ensures a comfortable working environment for our artisans during the frosty winter months. These measures not only create a better workplace but also lessen our environmental impact.

Reuse, Repurpose, and Responsible Shipping

At LIFEFORM®, we advocate for the reuse and repurposing of materials wherever possible. Vendor packaging materials are given a second life, reducing the demand for new resources. Leather scraps from our manufacturing process are provided to local crafters and artisans, who transform them into unique products and artworks. Additionally, our efficient delivery system for the United States consolidates orders and dispatches them via a single tractor-trailer weekly, mitigating fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This method maximizes the space on each truck, reducing the environmental impact compared to multiple shipments of mass-produced chairs.

Longevity and Sustainable Living: Investing in Quality

The soul of LIFEFORM® Chairs resides in our unwavering commitment to constructing chairs that last a lifetime. Made from high-quality, durable materials, our chairs resist wear and tear far better than mass-produced ones. Many of our customers cherish our chairs for over 15 years, requiring minimal servicing or replacement of parts. This enduring quality dramatically reduces the environmental impact created by “fast furniture” waste. Investing in a LIFEFORM® Chair is a long-term pledge to health, comfort, and sustainability. Each made-to-order chair embodies a distinct identity, ensuring your investment pays dividends in comfort, aesthetic appeal, and environmental consciousness. With LIFEFORM®, you’re not just buying a chair; you’re investing in a philosophy of enduring quality and sustainable living.