Herman Miller

On Wednesday Oct. 6, a Herman Miller representative visited my class. She presented information about the company and many of their products. Herman Miller creates and designs products that improve the work environment. Sustainability has become a very important part in designing products and spaces. Herman Miller adopted the "cradle to cradle" approach to sustainability. The company abides by a protocol that evaluates the products and it's materials. First, the company investigates the materials used in their products and if they are the safest. Second, they question whether the products can be taken apart at the end of its useful life and if the materials can be recycled. All future Herman Miller products will be evaluated within the MBDC "cradle to cradle" protocol.

       The company has designed several amazing products, but one that I thought was very cleaver is the Embody Chair. This chair was initially made for employees that have to sit and work for hours at a time; embody keeps the mind and body synchronized. Instead of using foam and fabric to construct the chair, Herman Miller converted over to pixelated support. Therefore, the seat and back surfaces conform to the user’s body and every movement. By fitting your form, Embody increases blood circulation, which improves oxygen flow. In my opinion, I thought the slimness of the back was a very clever design. Because the back of the chair is so thin, it enables users to reach behind or to the side of them, which increases physical movement. In one of my earlier research projects, I had to gather information on systems furnishings. Herman Miller has one of the most impressive designs for solutions to systems furnishings. Their “Resolve” system is a very innovative and dynamic workspace. First, the company wanted to create a system that broke away from the 90-degree angle workspace. Why not make it 120-degree workspace? Resolve solved the problem. This space creates a more welcoming area with more options. The system offers many color options and finish options. The biggest advantage of “Resolve” is that it surrounds the worker. Because of the 120-degree angle, the worker is easily brought into the space and surrounded by technology, tools, services, and the working community. Lastly, this workspace allows for more interactions between workers; it’s shape and openness encourages people to interact, connect, and collaborate. 

Herman Miller work station
with ergonomics solutions.

       Next, Herman Miller thrives on “Fell Better. Work Better.” Ergonomics is one of the biggest concerns to the company. They address issues in areas of seating, technology support, performance tables, personal lighting, and work tools. Herman Miller believes it is important to worry first about the people then the product. The company has designed seven different office chairs. Each hold different characteristic and functions that will increase productivity and comfort ability in the work environment.

        When designing office spaces, Herman Miller is an amazing source for products and ideas. With there thrive on sustainability, systems furnishings, and ergonomics; the company is making the world and the office a better environment