Knoll Furniture

American

As a company that produced many of the most famous and iconic furniture designs of the 20th century, Knoll was a chief influence in the rise of modern design in the United States. Led by Florence Knoll, the firm would draw stellar talents such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Eero Saarinen into its compass. Their work would help change the face of the American home and office.

The company was formed in 1938 by the German immigrant Hans Knoll. He first worked with his fellow ex-pat, the Danish designer Jens Risom, who created furniture with flowing lines made of wood. While Risom served in World War II, in 1943 Knoll met his future wife, Florence Schust. She had studied and worked with eminent emigré leaders of the Bauhaus, including Mies, Walter Gropius and Marcel Breuer. She won Knoll over with Bauhaus notions of industrial arts, and an aesthetic that featured flat and tubular metal frames and angular forms. When Hans died in a car crash in 1955, Florence Knoll was appointed head of the company. It was as much through her holistic approach to design — a core division of the firm was dedicated to planning office systems — as Knoll's mid-century modern furnishings themselves that she brought about the sleek and efficient transformation of the American workplace.

Today, classic Knoll furnishings remain staples of modern design collections and decor. A history of modern design is written in pieces such as the elegant Barcelona chair — created by Mies and Lilly Reich — Saarinen’s pedestal Tulip chair, Breuer’s tubular steel Wassily lounge chair and the grid-patterned Diamond chair by Harry Bertoia.

As you can see from the collection of these designs and other vintage Knoll dining chairs, sofas and tables on 1stDibs, this manufacturer's offerings have become timeless emblems of the progressive spirit and sleek sophistication of the best of modernism.

Knoll Furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

Knoll Furniture is available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive objects are frequently made of metal and designed with extraordinary care. In our collection of Knoll Furniture there are many options to choose from, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. 942 vintage editions of these items are in stock, while there are 75 modern editions to choose from as well. Many original Knoll furniture pieces were created in the Mid-Century Modern style in North America during the 19th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider furniture from Edward Wormley Furniture, Milo Baughman Furniture and Herman Miller Furniture. Knoll Furniture prices can vary depending on size, time period and other attributes. The price for these items starts at US$174 and tops out at US$51,209, while pieces like these can sell for US$3,600 on average.

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Questions About Knoll Furniture

What is 50-year-old furniture called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
Fifty-year-old furniture is called vintage furniture. The term vintage applies to furnishings that are 20 to 99 years old. More recently crafted items are contemporary, while older furniture is antique. On 1stDibs, explore a wide variety of antique, vintage and contemporary furniture from some of the world's top sellers.
What is the 1950s furniture style called?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
The best-known 1950s furniture style is called mid-century modern. Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three phrases that describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style emerged primarily in the years following World War II through creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Mid-century modern designers combined natural and human-made materials, such as teak, rosewood and oak woods as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. Some well-known mid-century modern designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of mid-century modern furniture.
What is it called when furniture is made to look old?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024
When modern furniture is made to look old, it is often called distressing or weathering. The process can involve sanding, painting and creating blemishes and marks in the materials to impart an aged appearance. In some cases, distressed furniture gets its look from the use of reclaimed materials, such as wood, metal, stone and other items that were previously used as construction materials in structures and old furniture. Distressed furniture differs from reproduction furniture, which refers to contemporary furnishings patterned after antique and vintage designs. Reproduction furniture may be distressed in some cases, but often it looks brand new when sold. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of furniture.
Does Herman Miller own Knoll?
1 Answer
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.
What antique furniture is popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024
Many antique furniture brands are popular. While trends in collecting do vary over time, some makers consistently remain highly sought after. Among them are J. & J.W. Meeks, John Henry Belter, R. J. Horner and Co., Stickley Furniture, George Hepplewhite, Josef Dannhauser, Thomas Chippendale and Thomas Sheridan. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of antique furniture.
Why is real furniture so expensive?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 20, 2024
Real furniture is so expensive for a few reasons. For one thing, sourcing fine materials, such as solid wood, marble and natural fiber fabrics like cotton and linen, is typically more costly than acquiring human-made materials like engineered wood, resins and synthetic upholstery fabrics. Also, high-quality furniture is often at least partially handcrafted, so it takes longer to produce and creates higher labor costs. In addition, there is often a great demand for fine furniture and a limited supply, which increases prices. Find a wide range of furniture on 1stDibs.
Who is Florence Knoll?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Florence Knoll was an architect and furniture designer who greatly influenced mid-century design. She established the furniture company Knoll, Inc., which continues to manufacture pieces inspired by her designs. Knoll died on January 25, 2019, at the age of 101. Find a collection of Florence Knoll furniture on 1stDibs.
What is a Knoll Sofa?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
A Knoll sofa, or a Knole sofa, is an interesting piece of furniture that’s believed to have its origins in the 1600s and to be the precursor to the modern sofa. It features two side-by-side cushions and arms that are as high as the back of the sofa. The most interesting feature is that these arms can often be tied back or dropped to change the profile of the sofa. Find an assortment of Knole sofas from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
How do I pronounce Florence Knoll?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
To pronounce Florence Knoll, say "FLO-rens Noll." The "K" in the designer's last name is silent. Florence Knoll's maiden name was Florence Marguerite Schust, pronounced "shusht." She changed her name after marrying Hans Knoll in 1946. Find a range of Florence Knoll furniture on 1stDibs.
Who is the CEO of Knoll furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Andrew B. Cogan is the CEO of Knoll furniture as of December 2021. He also serves as the Chairman of the Board. He took on the role in 2001. Prior to that time, he worked as the company's COO. Shop a range of Knoll furniture on 1stDibs.
How do I date Knoll furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
How to date Knoll furniture depends on the piece. Some pieces feature stickers that bear the brand's name and logo, and the graphics changed over the years. By comparing the style of the logo to samples online, you can estimate the age of the piece. In some cases, the manufacturing year may appear on the sticker. To date a Knoll chair, look for the tag sewn on the back of the seat cushion. Often, the manufacturer prints the date there. You'll find a collection of expertly vetted Knoll furniture on 1stDibs.
Where does Florence Knoll live?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Florence Knoll lived in the U.S. throughout her life. She was born in Saginaw, Michigan, on May 24, 1917, and she died in Coral Gables, Florida, on January 25, 2019. From 1940 to 1941, she attended the Chicago Armour Institute in Chicago, Illinois. After that, she lived and worked in New York City for many years. On 1stDibs, find a range of Florence Knoll furniture.
Who owns Knoll furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
MillerKnoll owns Knoll furniture. The company formed when Herman Miller, Inc., acquired Knoll, Inc., on April 19, 2021. The publicly traded company operates from its headquarters in Zeeland, Michigan. Andi Owen serves as its CEO, as of December 2021. Shop a collection of Knoll furniture on 1stDibs.
Where are Knoll chairs made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Knoll maintains manufacturing plants in the United States, Canada, and Italy. Countless designers have worked for Knoll over the years to create exquisite furniture that’s beloved by collectors worldwide. Shop a collection of antique and contemporary Knoll chairs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Where is Knoll furniture made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Florence Knoll produced her furniture designs largely in a factory located in East Greenville, Pennsylvania. As of December 2021, the company she founded, Knoll, Inc., manufactures furniture in the same factory, as well as in Grand Rapids, Michigan; Muskegon, Michigan; Toronto, Canada; and Foligno and Graffignana, Italy. Find a selection of Florence Knoll furniture on 1stDibs.
What is the history of the Knoll sofa?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 15, 2024
The history of the Knoll sofa began in 1954. The sofa was made during American designer and entrepreneur Florence Knoll’s direction of the Knoll Planning Unit, the company's pioneering "design consultant service" that would define the look of the postwar workplace. The versatile Florence Knoll sofa, with its angular silhouette and tasteful mix of textures, could as easily fit into the glass lobby of a skyscraper as the living room of a home. That same year, Florence Knoll also introduced a companion lounge chair that coordinated with the sofa. Knoll, Inc. continues to produce the Florence Knoll sofa over half a century after it was introduced, and vintage models are still prized for their sturdy construction and timeless qualities. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Florence Knoll sofas.
What is a Parker Knoll chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
A Parker Knoll chair is designed by the British furniture manufacturing company Parker Knoll. These chairs are considered to be luxurious — they are handmade in the company’s Nottinghamshire factory from high-quality wood and feature plush upholstery in leather as well as in a variety of fabrics. Find Parker Knoll chairs on 1stDibs.
How can I tell if my Knoll table is real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
To tell if your Knoll table is real, look for a label on the underside of the tabletop. Nearly all Knoll pieces feature marks, but the specific style of the label and the information included on it have varied over the years and from table to table. As a result, you should try searching trusted online resources for images of the labels found on authentic tables of the same age and model as your own. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer evaluate your piece. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of Knoll tables.
How do you tell if a chair is Parker Knoll?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 9, 2024
To tell if a chair is a Parker Knoll, look for the maker's label, usually found under the seat on dining chairs and on the bases or frames on office and accent chairs. Although the company has modified its markings over the years, most pieces will at least state "Parker Knoll.” Many pieces also feature serial numbers. By cross-referencing these numbers with information published on trusted online resources, you can learn about the age, style name and other features of your chair. If you need assistance with identification, seek the opinion of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Shop a collection of Parker Knoll chairs on 1stDibs.
Where are Parker Knoll sofas made?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
Where Parker Knoll sofas are made has changed over time. In 2016, the luxury furniture maker moved its factory to Castlewood, Nottinghamshire. Prior to the relocation, the company produced most of its pieces in London and High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Parker Knoll sofas from some of the world's top sellers.
How can you tell if a chair is Parker Knoll?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 15, 2024
To tell if a chair is Parker Knoll, look under the seat. Most Parker Knoll chairs will be marked with the company's logo and a model number. Some may also display the designer's signature. You can cross-reference the model number with information published on trusted online resources to learn more about your chair. If you can't locate a maker's mark or run into other difficulties identifying your chair, consider enlisting the help of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. On 1stDibs, explore a selection of Parker Knoll chairs.
How can you tell if a Knoll chair is real?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
To tell if a Knoll chair is real, first look for Knoll Furniture markings, usually found under the seat. These labels have varied over the years, but by comparing what's present on your furniture to images of authentic pieces found on trusted online resources produced around the same time, you can spot any inconsistencies that might indicate a replica. Knoll Furniture has sold many different chairs since its founding in 1938. Researching the characteristics of your specific chair can help you identify signs that your piece may be a replica. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can also help with authentication. On 1stDibs, shop an assortment of Knoll chairs.
Where do I buy Parker Knoll furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
You can buy Parker Knoll furniture through an authorized dealer. The manufacturer partners with brick-and-mortar stores all over the world and also works with some online platforms. While you can browse the entire selection of current Parker Knoll designs on their official website, you cannot buy directly from the company online. Shop a collection of Parker Knoll furniture on 1stDibs.
When did Knoll start stamping furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Knoll began to stamp their furniture in 2004. An authentic stamp consists of the brand's name printed in the correct font. Normally, the manufacturer places the stamp on the upper section of the base. Shop a selection of expertly vetted Knoll furniture on 1stDibs.
What furniture did Florence Knoll make?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Florence Knoll made a number of well-known furniture designs and founded the company Knoll, Inc. Some of her most acclaimed pieces include the Florence Knoll lounge chair, the Florence Knoll sofa, the Florence Knoll bench and the Florence Knoll settee. Shop a variety of Florence Knoll furniture on 1stDibs.
What did Florence Knoll call the Womb chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
What Florence Knoll called the Womb chair after it was created is unknown. However, its creator Eero Saarinen stated that Knoll inspired him to make the piece by asking him to design the most comfortable chair ever, saying specifically that she wanted something that felt like "a basket full of pillows." Presented with the challenge, Saarinen went primal. What, the designer figured, better signifies the very essence of comfort than the womb? "It was designed on the theory that a great number of people have never really felt comfortable and secure since they left the womb,” the designer said of his chair. Find a selection of vintage Womb chairs on 1stDibs.