George Nelson1908-1986

Timeline

1908 Born in Connecticut.

1931 Graduates from Yale School of Architecture.

1932 Wins the Prix de Rome in architecture while on fellowship in Italy.

1935-44 Editor of Architectural Forum.

1936-44 New York architecture practice with William Hanby.

1946-72 Design director for Herman Miller.

1986 Dies.

Major AchievementsAs a writer and theorist, Nelson urged his contemporaries to create relevant & humane design, thereby creating an avenue for modernism to enter the mainstream in both commercial and residential arenas.

With Nelson as director of design, Herman Miller introduced many of the most recognized designs by Charles & Ray Eames, Noguchi, Bertoia and Knorr.

A formidable and prolific designer in his own right, Nelson produced a number of classic furniture designs.

Design Process & TheoryPracticed in a variety of design disciplines - industrial, textile, graphic, furniture, architecture - during 50+ years of professional activity.

Described creative process as a series of innovative “zaps” when "the solitary individual finds he is connected with a reality he never dreamed of."

Lamented thoughtless design concessions to commercialism, promoting instead a modern yet humane and meditated aesthetic.

Characteristically, his designs are geometric yet often whimsical, modular and integrated though frequently “blown apart”.

1945: Storagewall

1946: Nelson Bench

1946: Basic Storage Components

1947: Howard Miller Clocks

1947: Ball Clock

1947: Bubble Lamp

1952: Miniature Chest

1955: Coconut Chair

1955: Marshmallow Sofa

1954: Modular Systems

1956: Kangaroo & 5490 Chaise

1957: Pretzel Arm & Side Chairs

1957: Swag-legged Series

1959: Catenary

1964: Sling Sofa

1964: Perch & Action Office

George Nelson1908-1986

1959 Caternary

1957 MAA Swag-leg

1956 5490 Chaise

1956 Kangaroo1955 Marshmallow Sofa

1955 Coconut

1952 Miniature Chest

1947 Bubble Lamp

1945 Storagewall1947 Ball Clock

1946 Nelson Bench

1957 Pretzel