History

Herman Miller was established in 1905 as the Star Furniture Company in Zeeland, Michigan. In 1923, D.J. De Pree, along with his father-in-law Herman Miller, acquired the majority of the company's shares, renaming it the Herman Miller Furniture Company. Initially focusing on traditional home furniture, the company shifted towards modern design in the 1930s under the influence of designer Gilbert Rohde. This transition marked the beginning of Herman Miller's commitment to contemporary aesthetics and functionality. (hermanmiller.com)

Iconic Designs

Throughout its history, Herman Miller has collaborated with prominent designers to create furniture that has become synonymous with modern design. Notable pieces include:

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  Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman: Designed by Charles and Ray Eames in 1956, this chair is celebrated for its comfort and elegant design. (en.wikipedia.org)

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  Aeron Chair: Introduced in 1994, the Aeron chair revolutionized office seating with its ergonomic design and use of innovative materials. (en.wikipedia.org)

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  Marshmallow Sofa: Created by George Nelson and Irving Harper in 1956, this sofa is recognized for its playful design and has become an icon of Pop Art. (livingetc.com)

Innovations in Office Furniture

In 1968, Herman Miller introduced the Action Office system, designed by Robert Propst. This was the world's first open-plan modular system of panels and attaching components, revolutionizing office design and leading to the development of the modern cubicle. (hermanmiller.com)

Sustainability Initiatives

Herman Miller has been a pioneer in sustainability within the furniture industry. The company has implemented various initiatives, including the use of renewable energy and sustainable materials. In 2021, Herman Miller announced that its entire Aeron Chair portfolio would contain ocean-bound plastic, reflecting its commitment to environmental responsibility. (hermanmiller.com)

Recent Developments

In 2021, Herman Miller acquired Knoll, Inc., creating a leading entity in modern design. The combined company was rebranded as MillerKnoll, encompassing a portfolio of brands dedicated to design innovation. (hermanmiller.com)

Product Portfolio

Herman Miller offers a diverse range of products designed to meet various needs, including:

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  OE1 Workspace Collection: A collection of optimized, essential pieces designed to experiment with space, both now and in the future. (hermanmiller.com)

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  Thrive Ergonomic Portfolio: A selection of products aimed at creating a health-positive experience of work. (hermanmiller.com)

Collaborations and New Designs

Herman Miller continues to collaborate with renowned designers to introduce new products. In 2025, British architectural designer John Pawson introduced the Drift Sofa Group, a minimalist seating collection created in collaboration with Herman Miller. The design emphasizes functionality while maintaining architectural beauty. (wallpaper.com)

Cultural Impact

Herman Miller's designs have had a significant impact on modern furniture and office environments. The Aeron chair, for example, became a status symbol in Silicon Valley during the dot-com boom of the late 1990s, symbolizing the optimism and innovation of the era. (en.wikipedia.org)

Conclusion

Herman Miller's commitment to design excellence, innovation, and sustainability has solidified its position as a leader in the furniture industry. Through collaborations with visionary designers and a focus on ergonomic and environmentally responsible products, the company continues to influence modern living and working spaces.