Discover the Origin of the Innovative Design Developed by George Nelson and Irving Harper
Adapted Text – Herman Miller
More than enchanting through aesthetics and concept, the creations of American modernist designer George Nelson are filled with curiosities about their origins and inspirations.
We have already shared on the Novo Ambiente Blog how Nelson created one of his most iconic series, the Nelson Bubble lamps – you can read that story here.
And today, we will discuss how the Marshmallow sofa came to be, a modernist classic developed by him and Irving Harper. Read on: 
An Unexpected Origin
George Nelson and Irving Harper, still a young designer working at Nelson’s design firm, were approached by an inventor who had created an injectable plastic disc, which he insisted could be produced inexpensively and would be durable.
The designers took a look at the offered material and arranged 18 of them on a steel frame, without pretension.
The inventor’s cushions ended up being impractical, but Nelson and Harper were intrigued by the design they had conceived so casually, and Herman Miller, in turn, decided to manufacture the sofa.
By joining separate elements and creating the impression that they floated in the air, Nelson and Harper achieved the original appearance of this piece and an attractive feature, which paved the way for the pop art style of the 1960s.
You look at the 45 and 25 cm “marshmallow” cushions and cannot help but smile. Its eccentric design maintains the number of 18 comfortable round pieces, which appear to float on the tubular brushed steel frame.
And it has been this way since it began attracting attention in 1956. At the time, the Nelson Marshmallow sofa was described in the Herman Miller catalog as follows: “Despite its surprising appearance, this piece is very comfortable.”
This furniture can create a playful or dramatic impact in an entrance hall, lounge, or living room. The tubular brushed steel frame with satin black feet provides a strong and durable base, making the sofa suitable for high-traffic areas. 
“Design is not science and never will be.” – George Nelson
Incredible how an unpretentious task led to the creation of one of the most iconic pieces of modernist design, is it not? Were you already familiar with the story behind the Nelson Marshmallow sofa? Share with us what you thought of this article and take the opportunity to explore other features like this on our blog!