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Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

American

No other business of its kind did more than the Herman Miller Furniture Company to introduce modern design into American homes. Working with legendary designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, George Nelson and Alexander Girard, the Zeeland, Michigan-based firm fostered some of the boldest expressions of what we now call mid-century modern style. In doing so, Herman Miller produced some of the most beautiful, iconic and, one can even say, noblest chairs, sofas, tables and other furniture ever.

Founded in 1923, Herman Miller was originally known for grand historicist bedroom suites: heavily ornamented wood furniture that appealed to a high-minded, wealthier clientele. The company — named for its chief financial backer — began to suffer in the early 1930s as the Great Depression hit, and D.J. De Pree, the company’s CEO, feared bankruptcy. In 1932, aid came in the form of Gilbert Rohde, a self-taught furniture designer who had traveled widely in Europe, absorbing details of the Art Deco movement and other modernist influences. After persuading De Pree that the growing middle class required smaller, lighter household furnishings, Rohde set a new course for Herman Miller, creating sleek chairs, tables and cabinetry that were the essence of the Streamline Moderne style.

Rohde died suddenly in 1944. The following year, De Pree turned to George Nelson, an architect who had written widely about modern furniture design. Under Nelson’s leadership, Herman Miller would embrace new technologies and materials and audacious biomorphic forms

Some of the pieces the company produced are now emblems of 20th century American design, including the Eames lounge chair and ottoman and Nelson’s Marshmallow sofa and Coconut chair. Such instantly recognizable furnishings have become timeless — staples of a modernist décor; striking, offbeat notes in traditional environments.

Find a range of vintage Herman Miller office chairs, desks, coffee tables and other furniture on 1stDibs.

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Creator: Herman Miller
George Nelson for Herman Miller Drop-Leaf Desk Model 4754, ca. 1955
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Costa Mesa, CA
George Nelson for Herman Miller Drop-Leaf Desk Model 4754, ca. 1955. Professionally restored in showroom condition, this beautiful desk has a drop leaf on the left side with all orig...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Mahogany

Early George Nelson Desk / Return, Child's Desk, Modernist, Herman Miller
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Buffalo, NY
Early George Nelson desk / return, child's desk, Modernist, Herman Miller, Retains original Herman Miller foil label, 4 drawers, pencil dividers, steel frame, minor pitting (lower right side bottom). Original designed for larger desk, return, typewriter desk...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum, Steel

George Nelson for Herman Miller 'Action Office 1' Desk
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Early George Nelson Action Office 1 desk in original condition with minor wear. George Nelson for Herman Miller, polished aluminum, plastic laminate, w...
Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

Vintage Herman Miller Table or Desk with Knoll Walnut Top
By Herman Miller
Located in Pasadena, TX
A vintage dining or conference table or a desk. Beautiful Knoll top made of American Walnut on a Herman Miller aluminum segmented base. We have 8 available.  
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Elusive Modernist Action Office Desk or Table by George Nelson for Herman Miller
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Buffalo, NY
Rarely seen modernist action office desk or conference table by George Nelson for Herman Miller. Purchased from prominent Buffalo NY architect. Beautiful figured walnut wood top mino...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Small Mid Century Modern Zebra Wood Desk By Peter Protzman For Herman Miller
By Herman Miller, Peter Protzmann
Located in Atlanta, GA
Mid-century modern zebra wood desk by Peter Protzman for Herman Miller. Very good condition. No keys. Small gouges at the front of the desk. Other minor signs of wear from normal us...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Zebra Wood

Large Mid Century Modern Zebra Wood Desk By Peter Protzman For Herman Miller
By Peter Protzmann, Herman Miller
Located in Atlanta, GA
Mid-century modern zebra wood desk by Peter Protzman for Herman Miller. This desk was produced only in 1970 and 1971 in limited numbers. Very good condition. Huge desk with lots of ...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Zebra Wood

Herman Miller George Nelson Action Office Desk
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Pasadena, TX
Thus is a Herman Miller Desk designed by George Nelson. It's from Nelson's Action Office Series. It has 2 pull out drawers and a mid drawer. The top is wood and the legs are steel wi...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal, Aluminum, Steel

1980s Herman Miller Burdick Group Post Modern Industrial Design Modular Desk USA
By Herman Miller, Bruce Burdick
Located in Sherborne, Dorset
A rare opportunity to buy a stunning Post Modern desk designed in 1981 by Bruce Burdick for Herman Miller. Burdick’s first product for Herman Miller was the 'Burdick Group System', ...
Category

Late 20th Century American Post-Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum, Steel

1980s Herman Miller Burdick Group Post Modern Industrial Design Modular Desk USA
By Herman Miller, Bruce Burdick
Located in Sherborne, Dorset
A rare opportunity to buy a stunning Post Modern desk designed in 1981 by Bruce Burdick for Herman Miller. Burdick’s first product for Herman Miller was the 'Burdick Group System', ...
Category

Late 20th Century American Post-Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum, Steel

Pedestal Desk by George Nelson for Herman Miller, Usa, 1955
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Barcelona, ES
Pedestal desk designed in 1955 by George Nelson for Herman Miller, USA. Teak wood top with two drawers underneath and polished aluminium bases.
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Scrittoio Home Desk di George Nelson per Herman Miller Anni 60-70
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Milano, IT
Scrittoio con vani a giorno con scomparti sul piano e piccoli cassetti sotto piano. Legno di rovere e legno ricoperto in formica, struttura in alluminio. Restaurata.
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Bruce Burdick for Herman Miller Executive Modular Desk
By Herman Miller, Bruce Burdick
Located in Pasadena, TX
According to the Herman Miller website, Bruce’s first product designed for HM was the “Burdick Group system,” a highly configurable office desk which int...
Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

George Nelson X-Leg Table for Herman Miller
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Los Angeles, CA
George Nelson X-Leg Table for Herman Miller c.2000’s. Originally designed and produced in the 1950s this was made as a work table for an office but equally in...
Category

Early 2000s American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Chrome

Action Desk by George Nelson & Robert Propst for Herman Miller
By Herman Miller, Robert Propst, George Nelson
Located in Madrid, ES
Action Office desk, model 64 902, designed by George Nelson & Robert Propst for Herman Miller from the 1960s. Base made of chrome-plated aluminum with white plastic protectors. Locka...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

George Nelson for Herman Miller Action Office Table or Desk
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Skokie, IL
George Nelson for Herman Miller Vintage Action Office Table or Desk The Action Office desk or conference table was designed by American designer and architect George Nelson (1908-1986) for Herman Miller. A substantial piece, It features a beautifully grained walnut top mounted on a streamlined, polished stainless steel base. The desk top edge is trimmed in black rubber. to protect it against bumps and bruises. Two small desk drawers slide out from beneath the table top. The drawers can be removed if desired. The desk top has been recently restored and is in excellent condition. Action Office was originally designed as a set of components that could be combined in multiple ways and changed as needed to evolve with the office over time. George Nelson was one of the founders of American Modernism. From 1946 until 1972, Nelson was director of design at Herman Miller. While there, Nelson introduced several important innovations in office furniture design, such as the Swagged Leg Group, which included the DAF and MAA chairs...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel

Herman Miller Office Desk
By Herman Miller
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Modern office desk by Herman Miller. Made in 1993 while retaining the mid-century modern style. Large wood top with metal hardware. Please confirm location NY or NJ.
Category

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

George Nelson for Herman Miller Mid Century Walnut Corner Executive Desk
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Countryside, IL
George Nelson for Herman Miller Mid Century Walnut Corner Executive Desk This desk measures: 60 wide x 30 deep x 29.75 high, with a chair cleara...
Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal, Chrome

George Nelson for Herman Miller Side Table, Work Table or Small Desk, Signed
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Doylestown, PA
George Nelson for Herman Miller side table, work table or small console desk. Great as a side/work table in a home office for printer, files, etc as a useful auxiliary piece to your...
Category

1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

George Nelson Action Office Architect's Roll-Top Desk for Herman Miller
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Dallas, TX
Striking black and walnut roll-top architect's desk with three drawers and hidden file storage. Produced in 1964 by the Herman Miller company for the Action Office Series...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

George Nelson Home Office Desk Model 4658 for Herman Miller
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Dallas, TX
George Nelson & Associates Home Office desk, model 4658 Manufactured by Herman Miller USA, 1946 This example is constructed of combed oak, chrome-plated...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum, Steel

1950's George Nelson X-Leg Extension Dining Table Model 5062
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Hanover, MA
Early George Nelson model 5062 X-Leg extension dining table for Herman Miller, 1952. Table has two 12 inch extension leaves and pull-out metal extension tracks. Table is 29 inches...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Iron

U-Shape Burdick Desk for Herman Miller with Floating Table
By Herman Miller, Bruce Burdick
Located in Pasadena, TX
A vintage U-shaped desk designed by Bruce Burdick for Herman Miller. This enormous desk has three separate surface tops: 84"x 44" glass top, a round onyx top, and a dark granite Geig...
Category

Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Onyx, Granite, Aluminum

George Nelson Walnut Executive and Typewriter Desk Set
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mid-Century Modern, Executive Office Group desk model 9959 and typewriter return desk model 4751 by George Nelson for Herman Miller features a dark walnut finish with steel legs, alu...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Steel

1960s Action Office Standing Desk by George Nelson, Herman Miler production
By George Nelson, Herman Miller, Robert Propst
Located in Renens, CH
1960s Action Office Standing Desk by George Nelson, Herman Miler production George Nelson, architect, designer and author is famous for several ...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

Yellow & Black Steel Frame Desk Model 4111 by George Nelson Herman Miller Mint
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Yellow & black steel frame desk Model 4111 by George Nelson Herman Miller Mint.
Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Steel

George Nelson Desk for Herman Miller, 1960s
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Berlin, DE
George Nelson Desk for Herman Miller, 1960s The Top has a very floating appearance.
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

George Nelson by Herman Miller Laminated Aluminum Design 1950s Rare Desk
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Brescia, IT
George Nelson by Hermann Miller 1950s Laminated wood, aluminum base Rare model.
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Writing Desk by George Nelson
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Sagaponack, NY
A single pedestal writing desk by George Nelson for Herman Miller with a built-in pivoting lamp. Lamp is 18" H.
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Steel

1960s Walnut and Leather Desk by George Nelson for Herman Miller
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Glendale, CA
1960s walnut and leather desk by George Nelson for Herman Miller. Executed in walnut with leather lift top (with key) covering center filing compartment, which illuminates and contai...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum

George Nelson Herman Miller Drop Leaf Gate Leg Dining Table or Desk
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Chicago, IL
A rarer find in original black finish. Clever design by George Nelson for Herman Miller Measures: 40" depth 29.75" height. 64.75" long unfolded 41.5" half folded 18.5" folded.
Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Desk Action Office 1, George Nelson, Herman Miller, Large Version
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Bern, CH
Design classic desk Action Office 1, George Nelson, Herman Miller, large version. Offered is a rare original design classic rarity, the desk Action Office 1. Model 64 902. Designe...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal, Aluminum

1950s George Nelson Swag Leg Desk
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Original Swag leg desk, designed by George Nelson for Herman Miller. Colorful cubbyholes and molded drawers allow for a tidy and streamlined workspace. O...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

Herman Miller desks and writing tables for sale on 1stDibs.

Herman Miller desks and writing tables are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of metal and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Herman Miller desks and writing tables, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original desks and writing tables by Herman Miller were created in the mid-century modern style in north america during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider desks and writing tables by George Nelson, Paul McCobb, and Knoll. Prices for Herman Miller desks and writing tables can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,095 and can go as high as $14,900, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $5,575.
Questions About Herman Miller Desks and Writing Tables
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Although many modern furnishings bear his name, Herman Miller is not a furniture designer. It is the name of a manufacturer — the business was originally called the Michigan Star Furniture Company and produced bedroom sets in traditional styles. When the company's general manager D.J. De Pree purchased the manufacturer in 1923 with his father-in-law's help, he showed his gratitude by renaming it after his benefactor: Herman Miller. Today, the firm is best known for iconic mid-century modern furniture designed by the likes of George Nelson, Ray and Charles Eames, and others. Herman Miller chairs, tables, storage cabinets and more helped usher in a new era of design characterized by sleek lines, bold colors and luxurious materials.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 29, 2024
    Herman Miller chair is a chair produced by the American furniture company Herman Miller.

    The firm is best known today for its iconic mid-century modern furniture, which includes a range of armchairsoffice chairs and other seating. Vintage Herman Miller chairs such as the Eames lounge chair, the Coconut chair and the Eames Executive chair are widely celebrated by design enthusiasts all over the world, while the Aeron chair, which was created by ergonomics pioneers Bill Stumpf and Don Chadwick in the 1990s, is the quintessential computer chair and a best seller.

    Shop a collection of Herman Miller chairs and other mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Herman Miller is the official retailer and manufacturer of the iconic Eames lounge chairs. Inspired by 19th-century English club chairs, interior design enthusiasts highly covet the distinctive-shaped Eames chair. Shop a collection of vintage Eames chairs and other goods from Herman Miller on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, the noted furniture brand Herman Miller acquired Knoll in 2021 and announced a new name, MillerKnoll. The new name is meant to take advantage of the long history and reputation that each brand brings to the table and to introduce a new, stronger joint effort to the public. Shop a collection of Herman Miller and Knoll furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The Herman Miller headquarters is located in Zeeland, Michigan. It opened in 1905 as the Star Furniture Company. The public company's stock trades on the NASDAQ exchange under the initials MLKN. On 1stDibs, you can find a selection of Herman Miller furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    PostureFit from Herman Miller is a kit available as an accessory for Aeron chairs and stools. Its purpose is to provide extra support at the base of the spine to help encourage better posture. The kit doesn't fit all Aeron chairs, making it important that you carefully read the information about compatible models before making a purchase. Shop a range of Herman Miller chairs on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    Herman Miller is good due to its long history of producing high-quality and enduring designs. No other business of its kind did more than the Herman Miller Furniture Company to introduce modern design into American homes. Working with legendary designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, George Nelson and Alexander Girard, the Zeeland, Michigan-based firm fostered some of the boldest expressions of what we now call mid-century modern style. In doing so, Herman Miller produced some of the most beautiful and iconic chairs, sofas, tables and other furniture ever. Some of the pieces the company produced are now emblems of 20th-century American design, including the Eames lounge chair and ottoman and George Nelson’s Marshmallow sofa and Coconut chair. Such instantly recognizable furnishings have become timeless staples of modernist decor. Shop a wide range of Herman Miller furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    How to adjust a Herman Miller chair depends on the model. Over the years, the company's furniture has employed many different mechanisms. Current styles of their well-known Aeron chair have a lever on the right for adjusting the seat height and one on the left that controls the seat tilt. A separate lever allows you to raise and lower the arms. You'll find a collection of Herman Miller chairs on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 28, 2021
    The best Herman Miller chair is going to vary by owner. There have been many revered chairs and other seating manufactured by the legendary American furniture company over the years. Chairs by Herman Miller are often alluring in appearance, comfortable, and long-lasting. 1stDibs offers a variety of vintage and new Herman Miller chairs that are contemporary in design and durable.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    How to replace Herman Miller casters depends on the chair. In most cases, you will need a pipe wrench and an Allen wrench to remove the current casters, and a mallet and a lubricant to install the new wheels. Follow the replacement instructions provided by Herman Miller to ensure best results. Find a selection of Herman Miller chairs on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To clean a Herman Miller Aeron chair, follow the specific directions provided by the company. Generally, you can use a soft cloth moistened with water and mild dish soap to wipe off the arms, base and frame. Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to remove debris from the upholstery. Shop a range of Herman Miller chairs on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Where Herman Miller furniture is made depends on the piece. Up until 2007, a factory in Zeeland, Michigan, produced nearly all of the company's furniture. In 2007, the company acquired a factory in Ningbo, China, and in the early 2010s, they established a manufacturing location in the United Kingdom. On 1stDibs, you can find a selection of Herman Miller furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Normally, Herman Miller has two sales each year. The first takes place in the spring, and the second is usually in the fall around the start of shopping for the holiday season. Year-round, other online platforms may offer discounts on Herman Miller. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Herman Miller furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The way to adjust a Herman Miller Aeron chair depends on which part you wish to reposition. To raise or lower the seat, use the paddle-shaped lever found on the right side of the chair. Reach for the lever on the left side to tilt the seat. A lever on the base of the arms controls the arm height, and you can modify the arm angle by pivoting the arm pad. You'll find a selection of Herman Miller chairs on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, Herman Miller makes clocks. Founded in 1927, the Herman Miller Clock Company specialized in traditional clock design. Today, Herman Miller is known for their mid-century and contemporary style clocks. Browse a selection of Herman Miller’s clocks and furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Herman Miller actually has two sales each year rather than one annual sale. The specific dates of the sales vary. However, most years, the sales take place once in the spring and once in the fall. You may find Herman Miller available for discounted prices on other online platforms year-round. Find a collection of Herman Miller furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 29, 2024
    You can buy Herman Miller chairs in a number of ways. The company sells chairs directly through their online store and operates a flagship store in New York City. In addition, Herman Miller makes their chairs available through select authorized brick-and-mortar retailers and online platforms. You'll also find a collection of vintage Herman Miller chairs on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    An easy way to identify a Herman Miller chair is to examine the underside of the seat. Many pieces feature a label or medallion that bears the brand name in the correct font or the logo. In addition, Herman Miller chairs come with a certificate of authenticity. On 1stDibs, find a selection of expertly vetted Herman Miller chairs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 29, 2024
    Yes, there are fake Herman Miller chairs. Because of the brand's popularity, some unscrupulous manufacturers create replicas and try to pass them off as authentic Herman Miller pieces. Others simply borrow elements of the style, producing chairs that look very similar. To identify a real Herman Miller chair, look for a label or medallion that shows the brand's logo or name in the correct font. Normally, the manufacturer’s mark can be found under the seat.

    On 1stDibs, shop a collection of authentic Herman Miller chairs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
    Herman Miller chairs are so good for a few reasons. Working with legendary designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, George Nelson and Alexander Girard, the Zeeland, Michigan-based Herman Miller Furniture Company fostered some of the boldest expressions of what we now call mid-century modern style. Many online reviewers praise how adjustable the maker's desk chairs are, reporting that they are able to fine-tune the position of many parts of the chairs to ensure their comfort. In addition, people point to the quality of both the materials and the construction and state that the chairs hold up to the effects of daily use in home offices and professional workplaces. On 1stDibs, explore a collection of Herman Miller chairs.

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