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.
George Nelson Modular Group Sofa
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Highland, IN
The modular seating group designed by the Nelson office in 1955 is one of our favorite sofa designs. It was designed on a 30" module and offered in a wide variety of configurations. ...
Steel
Vintage Herman Miller Chiclet Sofa
By Ray Wilkes, Herman Miller
Located in Dallas, TX
Designed by Ray Wilkes for Herman Miller and first introduced in 1976, this eye-catching modular sofa made a lasting impression with bold, rounded-edge cushions and steel brackets that join the seat and back to allow for independent flexibility that provides a surprising level of comfort. It is known as the Chiclet sofa...
Metal
George Nelson Modular Sofa Table System Herman Miller
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Berlin, BE
This original George Nelson Modular Sofa Table System for Herman Miller is a versatile and well-preserved example of Mid-Century Modern design. The system combines two upholstered se...
Steel
George Nelson Modular Sofa by Herman Miller, 1966
By Herman Miller
Located in Los Angeles, CA
George Nelson modular sofa by Herman Miller, 1966.
Chrome
$19,432
H 28.35 in W 135.83 in D 29.93 in
George Nelson for Hermann Miller Modular 3-Seater Sofa, 1960s
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Naples, IT
Modular 3-seater sofa designed by George Miller in 1956. The sofa incorporates a system of modules that allows you to choose the seating arrangement, the coffee table and chest of dr...
Leather, Wood
Zeno Modular Sofa
By CPRN HOMOOD
Located in Ponsacco, IT
This modular sofa is composed of various elements, allowing for flexible configurations to suit any space. It features lacquered armrests that add a refined touch, while the seat and...
Leather, Fabric, Wood
Auguste Modular Sofa
By CPRN HOMOOD
Located in Ponsacco, IT
This is a modular sofa that can be configured using various modules to suit different spaces and needs. Instead of traditional armrests, it features cylindrical bolster cushions that...
Leather, Fabric, Wood
Modular Sofa Starlight
By CPRN HOMOOD
Located in Ponsacco, IT
The Starlight modular sofa stands out for its elegant and versatile design, combining comfort and style in every corner. Upholstered in premium fabric or leather, it offers a soft an...
Leather, Fabric, Wood
Pierre Modular Sofa
By CPRN HOMOOD
Located in Ponsacco, IT
This is a modular sofa that can be configured using different modules to adapt to various spaces and layouts. It features a rounded shape, giving it a soft and elegant appearance. Th...
Leather, Fabric, Wood
Swan Modular Sofa
By CPRN HOMOOD
Located in Ponsacco, IT
This modular sofa features a sleek base upholstered in leather, adding a touch of sophistication and durability. The seat and backrest can be covered in either leather or fabric, off...
Leather, Fabric, Wood
Mid-Century Style Green Velvet Sofa
Located in Alhambra, CA
Contemporary manufacture with mid-century flair. Elegant and practical sofa, upholstered in green velvet with gold-toned hardware. Wider than your average loveseat, seating 2-3 comfo...
Velvet
American Empire Style Armchair in Mahogany, c.1890
Located in Alhambra, CA
American Empire style armchair with tapered high back and ornate mahogany frame. This statement piece features reconditioned wood paired with rich red mohair upholstery. C. late 19th...
Mahogany
Custom Alder Wood & Steel Bench
By Rehab Vintage Interiors
Located in Alhambra, CA
Custom steel bench, constructed locally in Los Angeles, CA. Custom-made steel frame with reclaimed alder wood bench seat. Excellent for use in a mudroom, entryway, or patio. 48"w x...
Steel
Pair of Custom Reclaimed Oak Barstools
By Rehab Vintage Interiors
Located in Alhambra, CA
Industrial style steel bar stools with reclaimed oak wood seats. Custom made in Los Angeles, the steel legs are built to last and can hold a significant amount of weight. These stool...
Steel
Antique Arts and Crafts Era Armchair with Built-In Bookcase
Located in Alhambra, CA
Original 1920's hand-crafted oak and leather armchair. Likely early 20th century American or English craftsman style design. Leather back is brass tacked to the coffin-shaped oak sea...
Brass
Vintage Italian Brass and Leather Armchairs, Pair
Located in Alhambra, CA
Pair of vintage 1990s Italian lounge chairs. Feature newly upholstered natural leather and transparent brass powder coat finish. Unique detached geometric-shaped base and arms. In fl...
Steel
You know the designs, now get the stories about how they came to be.
The prolific manufacturer has partnered with many of the world’s top designers since opening its doors in 1923. Here are some of the company’s greatest hits, which helped transform the American home and office.
