When Great Minds Collide: Herman Miller and Knoll

In 1949 Charles Eames, the mind behind Herman Miller’s iconic Eames chair, shared a list of design principles with his students. While some suggestions might have seemed commonplace, impersonal, or even stern, Eames underscored his teachings with the resonant principle: always think of the next largest context. Fast forward nearly eight decades and Herman Miller and Knoll – both titans of modern design – have heeded Eames’ advice by merging into a single entity: MillerKnoll. This fusion marks a strategic and dynamic convergence of philosophies and aesthetics.

Independently, Herman Miller and Knoll have eschewed a focus on design, consistently recognising the nuanced relationship between the consumer and their environments. In 1938, Knoll founders Hans and Florence Knoll married strict geometries with streamlined profiles, rich textures, and vibrant colours, bringing modernist architectural principles to a human scale. Their philosophy gave rise to what might now be called ‘humanised modernism’, where the architectural and the sculptural engage in a single conversation, showcased in iconic pieces like Eero Saarinen’s Tulip and Womb chairs. In a similar vein, Herman Miller started focusing on ergonomic precision and usability. Their sleek Aeron chair, designed in 1994, is a testament to this. It’s unique ‘pellicle’ suspension material and moulded fibreglass structure suit a range of body types and postural habits.

As regional dealers transition from the well-known name of Herman Miller to the fresh brand of MillerKnoll, it’s worthy to note that the offerings will continue to include both Herman Miller and Knoll, in addition to a diverse array of other vibrant brands within the expansive MillerKnoll portfolio. Customers can expect a wide selection that includes everything from the immediately identifiable products of HAY, Muuto, NaughtOne and Geiger to specialised brands that focus on acoustics, fabrics, and genuine leather, such as FilzFelt, Edelman and KnollTextiles.

This consolidation under the MillerKnoll collective brings together a remarkable range of expertise and products. The collection of brands also sets a new benchmark in design excellence, offering trusted insights and reliable solutions that shape not just spaces but also inform the way people interact with their home and work environments.

Herman Miller’s merger with Knoll is not just a union of two companies but a fusion of rich heritages. With their historical depth, seasoned experience and profound expertise, MillerKnoll is ideally positioned to sustain its role as a thought leader, shaping the future epoch of design.

To learn more about MillerKnoll and their collective of brands click here.