Modularity and Multipurpose Design

George Nelson was a noted teacher and writer, as well as a designer. He studied architecture in Rome and became an influential editor of Architectural Forum while continuing to design furniture that was based on the modern European designs with which he had become familiar.

Nelson Becomes Our Director of Design

In 1944, Nelson introduced the idea of Storagewall, the first modular storage system. It was widely derided by the furniture industry, but after reading an article about it in Architectural Forum, our founder, DJ De Pree, was impressed and intrigued. He went to New York to meet Nelson and convince him to become his director of design. Nelson was equally impressed and intrigued with DJ, and Nelson agreed to the new job.

It Was Meant to Discourage Long Sitting

Nelson maintained his independent design studio while helping us move the company toward contemporary furniture that fit modern post-war lifestyles and homes. He created the first version of the Platform Bench for his own New York office. The idea was that having to sit on a slatted bench would discourage visitors from staying too long. It was one of the few George Nelson design concepts that failed. Visitors found it comfortable, and it drove no one away. The bench became part of Nelson's first collection for us in 1946.

General Dimensions

• H:14"
• W:48"
• D:18.5"

General Dimensions

• H:14"
• W:60"
• D:18.5"

General Dimensions

• H:14"
• W:72"
• D:18.5"

Care & Maintenance

With regular care and maintenance, your Herman Miller product will provide many years of superior performance and satisfaction. To maintain quality, please follow the cleaning procedures outlined here.

The instructions for the care and maintenance of Herman Miller products are provided to you as a service. No warranty is implied since results may vary.

Solid Wood and Veneer

For normal cleaning, dust furniture daily with a slightly damp, soft cloth. Wipe dry with a dry, soft cloth in the direction of the wood grain. Once a month, clean the surface with a soft cloth dampened with a quality cleaner formulated for wood furniture. Wipe the surface in the direction of the wood grain to remove dirt and fingerprints. Wipe dry with a clean, dry cloth. Twice a year, apply a good quality emulsion wax to the finish with a soft cloth. Emulsion wax is clear and prevents fingerprints.

For minor repair of water rings, stains, and scratches, rub the surface lightly in the direction of the wood grain using No. 000 steel wool. Apply a scratch-removing polish with a color and value that simulate the veneer. If the scratches are deep, consult a professional furniture refinisher.