POWERHOUSE COLLECTION

Notes

Designed by George Nelson (1908-1986) in 1955 and made by Herman Miller from 1955-1965, the 'Coconut' chair is an enduring classic of modern American furniture. The 'Coconut' has been back in production since 1988. George Nelson said he developed the chair 'to give lounge seating comfort, together with great freedom of movement.' With its shallow sides and inviting curves, the chair is 'designed to let you sit in any position and move with surprising, and relaxing, ease'. George Nelson was one of the most influential figures in American design during the second half of the twentieth century. Nelson was not only a leading designer and notable architect, but also a prominent author, editor, lecturer, exhibition designer, and a passionate photographer. Nelson and his studio created many classics of modern furniture and interior design including the Coconut Chair (1955), the Marshmallow Sofa (1956), the Ball Clock (1947), Bubble Lamps (starting in 1952) and Action Office (1964). As an architect, designer and writer, Nelson was deeply interested in the topics of domestic living and interior furnishings. He was a pioneering planner and designer of the modern single family home during the 1940s and '50s. As design director of Herman Miller, Nelson had a major influence on the product line and public image of the company for over two decades and collaborated with many of the iconic designers of the era from Charles and Ray Eames to Alexander Girard.