Herman Miller

    On Wednesday October 6th, a Herman Miller representative gave an informative presentation on the company and its systems. Overall, the presentation was upbeat and interesting.  I had not known about many of Herman Millers policies directed towards the well being of its employees and the environment. For instance, employees must be within a certain distance of natural light. I personally loved hearing that. Who wants to sit in a cubicle under fluorescent lights all day? Definitely, not me. Another policy that really stood out was the company's need to blend in with its surroundings. This is accomplished beautifully at the world headquarters in Zeeland, Michigan. Herman Miller also stays environmentally friendly in their product design by renewing, reusing and recycling. They have over 10 "Cradle to Cradle" certifications on products ranging from seating to keyboard and mouse supports. This company gives the design world and the environment a beautiful future.

The Design Yard, Michigan.



 The first mind blowing product our rep introduced us to was the new Embody chair. According to Herman Miller, this chair promotes benefits for our body and our minds. Its understood that this chair allows more oxygen into our blood stream which improves brain function and boosts creativity. It's also advertised as a positive alternative to regular desk chairs, specifically for people on the computer all day because its provides back support and prevents stiffness. As if that wasn't enough to make an office designer drool, this chair is also environmentally friendly. The chair uses nonhazardous waste, renewable energy, recycled content, and at the end of its life-cycle, 95% can be recycled. Is that a chair or what?

The Embody Chair by Herman Miller

   Herman Miller addresses ergonomics in the office by a research-based set of products titled "Thrive." Thrive's entire idea is based off the phrase, "Feel better, Work better." This line offers ergonomic solutions in the office promoting healthy alignment and gives guidance on the correct way to use products to their full advantage. They think of people before the product and back it up with research. The Embody chair, as mentioned previously, is the newest part of the Thrive portfolio. The spine-like fingers supporting the back of the chair are made to constantly support the spine and keep a healthy alignment whether leaning backwards or forwards. Herman Miller looks at every aspect of their product and lets the consumer know what's in it for them.
   The entire presentation made me want to dive right into our new office design project. So many options and solutions are found through this company. One system that really stood out to me was the "Resolve" system. It's a pole based system that can be very useful for squeezing more into smaller spaces comfortably. Our rep informed us it can be very difficult to design with because of its lack of linage but also makes for an interesting outcome. Resolve allows a space to be fun and imaginative. Because this product is based on the 120 degree connection, it centers the worker and allows for maximum desk space. Learning about these systems; their advantages and disadvantages has really opened up a wide range of options for my office space. Thank you Herman Miller for a wonderful, informative presentation and the jar of honey!!