A recent survey reveals some of the most cherished “spots” in American homes, highlighting a sunken mattress, a bedside area with a Batman collection, and a great-grandmother’s chair as favorites among many. Conducted among 2,000 U.S. adults of various ages, the study shows that while some opt to enhance their favorite spaces—adding items like headphones and flip-flops to a “garden hammock”—others prioritize practicality, with one mentioning a “computer chair with full visibility.”
Other popular relaxation spots included the kitchen counter, a round bean bag chair, and a recliner belonging to a late father-in-law. Interestingly, the research, ordered by Stressless Furniture and executed by Talker Research, found that most respondents claim two distinct areas as theirs. Notably, 29% of Gen Z and Millennials pointed out that they have three or four such spots.
Many individuals have held onto their favorite place for an average of four years, although 17% admitted to originally claiming their spot over a decade ago. This attachment seems significant—almost 80% of participants stated that their housemates are aware of their designated areas. Moreover, more than half, about 54%, expressed that they’d feel considerable anger if someone occupied their personal space.
Some participants follow additional rules around their spaces. For instance, 19% avoid bringing work into their spots, while 18% reserve them for particularly stressful days. More than half, 52%, even categorize these locations as “sacred,” meant for specific purposes.
For numerous individuals, these favored spots are seen as a sanctuary, allowing them to relax and unwind (58%) or enjoy moments of quiet (41%). Particularly, 40% of Gen Z respondents emphasized using these spaces for self-care, whereas 30% of Millennials dedicate time to their hobbies.
Another noteworthy finding is that 70% of the surveyed participants treat their time in these spots as a way to wipe their mental and emotional slate clean. Beverly Castel, the Marketing Director for Stressless North America, noted that amidst rising stress and anxiety levels, having a special space for relaxation can be beneficial.
The findings indicate Americans feel more stressed at work (59%) than at home (29%), with an additional 43% expressing stress during everyday activities like errands. Moreover, two-thirds of participants, 67%, said they’d feel relieved if they could stay home when plans were canceled—a sentiment particularly strong among Millennials (74%).
Interestingly, 74% reported that they believe their lives today are more family-driven than ever, and 82% view their home as a “sanctuary,” with this perception typically developing in the last five years.
Peter Villegarde, president of Ekornes—makers of Stressless—suggested that while external stressors can be unavoidable, creating a home that feels like a sanctuary is an effective way to keep stress at bay. He emphasized that designing a comfy and relaxing space goes beyond mere decoration; it’s an investment in personal well-being.
In terms of methodology, Talker Research carried out the survey with 2,000 Americans, evenly split across generations (500 Gen Z, 500 Millennials, 500 Gen X, and 500 Baby Boomers), from September 30 to October 6, 2025.
