Mid-century modern design enthusiasts, rejoice! Herman Miller has announced the return of the iconic Girard Stool, a versatile and charming piece originally designed by the legendary Alexander Girard in 1967. This reintroduction not only brings back a beloved classic but also updates it with a focus on contemporary sustainability. Alexander Girard, best known as the founding director of Herman Miller’s textile division, was a true polymath with a vibrant and expressive design sensibility.
The Girard Stool, initially created for the Girard Group and inspired by his furniture designs for Braniff International, perfectly encapsulates this joyful approach to design. This isn’t just a stool; it’s a multi-purpose piece that can serve as a comfortable footrest, a convenient perch for quick seating, or a stylish standalone accent piece.
Designer: Herman Miller
What makes this re-release particularly exciting is Herman Miller’s commitment to evolving classic designs with modern values. The updated Girard Stool now features legs crafted from recycled aluminum, significantly reducing its environmental footprint. Furthermore, the seat cushion is made with bio-based foam, showcasing a move towards more sustainable materials without compromising on comfort or durability.
Staying true to Girard’s signature aesthetic, the reintroduced stool is available in a curated selection of textile options that celebrate his highly sought-after motifs. These vibrant and engaging patterns add a playful touch to any space, reflecting Girard’s deep appreciation for folk art, typography, and vivid color.
This new Girard stool is actually a faithful reproduction of Alexander Girard’s original 1967 design. You can use it as a footrest, extra seat, or a decorative perch for when you’re modeling or taking pictures. Or you can just use it as a regular stool. It’s upholstered in a curated selection of Alexander Girard’s celebrated patterns which can still fit in with a lot of modern aesthetics. It weighs only 7 lbs but has a weight capacity of 250 lbs. It’s also ready to use right out of the box so no need for any instructions or assembly.
The reintroduction of the Girard Stool underscores Herman Miller’s ongoing dedication to preserving design history while embracing sustainable practices. This updated classic offers a perfect blend of timeless charm, everyday practicality, and responsible material choices, making it a welcome addition to any contemporary home or office. I’m not someone who loves sitting on stools as it’s not lower back friendly but it can be an interesting addition to your space even if you don’t use it for sitting.
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