Knoll – American International Furniture Manufacturer

Knoll is an American and international furniture manufacturer.

Background

Hans Knoll established Knoll in 1938. Initially, the firm was called HG Knoll on East 72nd Street, New York.

In 1955, his wife Florence Knoll assumed directorship.

1959 the firm was sold to Art Metal Inc., with W. Cornell Dechert as president and Florence Knoll as a design consultant. By the 1960s, Knoll had 20 showrooms in the USA and 30 worldwide. Robert Cadwallader replaced Florence Knoll as president in 1965.

Herbert Matter, who also left in 1965, had executed graphic design and advertising, and one of Cadwallader’s first moves was to appoint Massimo Vignelli in his place.

In 1971, the Knoll Planning Unit was dissolved.

Designers

Gae Aulenti, Cini Boeri, Joe d’Urso, Hanna and Morrison, Carlos Riart, and Vignelli were among the furniture designers added to the stable.

Other designers’ work included Charles Pfister’s 1975 table, Robert Venturi’s 1984 chairs, table, and sofa, Andrew Morrison’s 1974 office furniture, Richard Meier’s 1982 tables and chairs, Ettore Sottsass’s 1983 and 1986 chairs and sofas, and Frank Gehry’s 1991 bentwood collection.

Knoll always used the finest materials and craftsmanship. Stainless steel (not chromium plating) was used in its Mies line. Undergoing many ownership changes, Knoll attempted to maintain its status while adding cheaper lines of systems, furniture, and furnishings. In a successful effort to revitalize its textile line, fashion fabric designer Jhane Barnes was selected in the late 1980s. Knoll did not sell through its retail outlets; the 1969 showroom at Georg Jensen’s, Madison Avenue, New York, and the 1974 Bloomingdale’s plan failed.

Product Collaborations and Launches

In November 2024, Bottega Veneta partnered with Flos to reimagine Gino Sarfatti’s iconic Model 600 table lamp, incorporating Bottega’s signature Intrecciato weave. This collaboration highlights Knoll’s influence in inspiring contemporary design partnerships. (Architectural Digest)

Market Trends and Demand

As of July 2024, there has been a resurgence in demand for office chairs, couches, and desks, benefiting furniture makers like MillerKnoll. The company reported organic order growth for the first time in two years, indicating a positive trend in the furniture market. (The Wall Street Journal)

Design Recognition

Knoll’s designs continue to receive acclaim, with pieces like the Wassily Chair and MR Lounge Chair featured among the best accent chairs to enhance interior spaces. These selections underscore Knoll’s enduring impact on modern furniture aesthetics. (Architectural Digest)

These developments reflect Knoll’s ongoing influence and relevance in the design industry, maintaining its legacy of innovation and quality.

Sources

Byars, M., & Riley, T. (2004). The design encyclopedia. Laurence King Publishing. https://amzn.to/3ElmSlL

More Design Firms

Related Articles

• Otto Zapf German Product and Furniture Designer
• Eero Saarinen (1910 – 1961) Finnish | American Architect Designer
• Marc Newson’s Aluminum Chair for Knoll
• No. 22 Diamond Chair by Harry Bertoia
• Discover David Adjaye’s Seating for Knoll at The Met NY