Herman Miller announced the first in a series of product reintroductions from its collection of modular storage solutions designed by George Nelson. A select group of items from the Nelson Basic Cabinet Series and a metal leg option for the Platform Bench will be available for preview in the company's exhibit space at ICFF.
George Nelson was Herman Miller's Director of Design from 1945-1972. After taking the role, he maintained his independent design practice and deftly carried on the company's course of producing contemporary furniture made from minimal materials appropriate to the emerging modern lifestyle.
Shortly before Nelson arrived at Herman Miller, he designed the Platform Bench for his office in New York City. Its intent was to provide a place for his materials and short-term guest seating; however, in 1946, it also became a base for the Basic Cabinet Series.
Available from the company until 1958, the Basic Cabinet Series was designed to be a modular system of simple case goods intended for the home or office. Today, the series includes four chest-cabinet combinations available in two handsome veneer options, including walnut and rift-cut oak. The items can be used with the Platform Bench or standalone separately, in pairs or in groups of any number to fit multiple room applications.
"Nelson and his associate Ernest Farmer created a modular storage solution that could adapt to a variety of configurations and locations, including living, dining, sleeping, or working areas," said Gregg Vander Kooi, product manager, Herman Miller. "They believed that properly designed modern furniture should be able to function anywhere."
The Platform Bench, together with the select items from the Basic Cabinet Series, can be used for a variety of functions, including a low table, a seating solution, or a base for deep or shallow chests and cabinets that ultimately can be positioned against a wall or used as a room divider. It is available in three sizes, including 48, 60, and 72 inches, with a maple finish and ebonized legs or chrome plated metal legs.
"These designs are just as relevant today as they were more than 60 years ago," added VanderKooi. "They serve equally well in multiple settings efficiently, comfortably and attractively."