A Trip to MillerKnoll Headquarters

Members of our Design team traveled to Zeeland, Michigan, for a unique opportunity to learn more about the products and processes that make the MillerKnoll brand collective so special.

The group had a JAM(co)-packed schedule to make the most of their almost 27-hour visit in June. This included touring the Design Yard and Testing Lab and seeing the MillerKnoll Performance System hard at work in the GreenHouse manufacturing plant, where Aeron, the Eames Lounge, and other ergonomic chairs are assembled.

"Experiencing the headquarters was such a massive learning bonus, and physically seeing how much thought and care is put into this company blew me away," said Christine Rohrkaste. "My favorite part of the trip was learning about MillerKnoll's manufacturing history and getting to see work chairs moving through the actual assembly lines. The refinement and passion the company puts into production was refreshing to see and made me even more excited that we get to work with them."

The group met many behind-the-scenes MillerKnoll team members and learned more about the tools and services available to help them better serve their clients. They also had the opportunity to learn more about MillerKnoll's vision for the future of work from Ryan Anderson, their VP of Global Research & Planning.

Design Manager, Sommer Reece-Farrier, said, "The trip was a great way to absorb the MillerKnoll culture. From Strategic Response to Product Guidance, to the MillerKnoll Performance System—all of the leaders we met with were so authentic and really interested in how their work could assist the John A. Marshall Co. team. We also got a sneak peek of some new product in development that the designers are really excited about."

Perhaps one of the most impressive moments for guests of all levels was visiting the MillerKnoll Archives and seeing its extensive collection of iconic furniture.

"The way they blended stories of Herman Miller and Knoll to show the huge impact they each made on the furniture industry was really interesting to learn about, said Brittlei North. “Who knew that the idea for the molded plywood chair came from first making leg splints for the military? Or that the Bertoia Diamond Chair was made to be the perfect chair for Harry Bertoia's pregnant wife? It was also really cool to see all the past furniture pieces that have been iconic throughout the years."

"I got to learn so much about MillerKnoll, the resources available to me as a designer, and the process of making our furniture," said Lauren Gee. "Two things in particular that stuck out to me were the furniture testing lab and the archives. In the lab, I got to see firsthand the grueling process our task chairs go through to be approved for use. Every type of test you could imagine is brought to life in this lab, which is really a testimony to MillerKnoll's quality for task chairs.

We also were lucky enough to visit the archives, where iconic and historic furniture by Herman Miller and Knoll are stored and on display. Being able to walk down the aisles of floor-to-ceiling furniture that I have only ever seen in pictures was such an unforgettable experience. Overall, this trip was both educational and enjoyable, and I feel so lucky to have been a part of it!"

Regarding his visit, Steven Scott, Director of Strategic Partnerships, said, "There is almost something surreal, dare I say enchanting, about visiting the place where ‘it all happens’. The Yard and the GreenHouse in Michigan encompass everything that Herman Miller and Knoll stand for. Everyone who is there - employee or guest - is there to absorb, learn, and experiment. There is no setting or product that comes to market that hasn't been put to the test by these facilities. It's truly one of the most inspiring environments I have had the pleasure of visiting." 

"I was continually impressed by the intentionality behind every space and experience," reflected Cody Kime. "At every turn in the Design Yard and GreenHouse, the human-centered and biophilic design principles were evident, demonstrating the living office environment that MillerKnoll's products are designed to create.

We also had the invaluable opportunity to learn from experts across MillerKnoll, from product development, marketing, business strategy, color, materials and finishes (CMF), and other disciplines. Hearing their design journeys and evident passion, combined with witnessing the product craftsmanship behind iconic products lines like the Eames Lounge and Ottoman, brought everything MillerKnoll speaks of full circle. This reinforced how deeply MillerKnoll values and celebrates the human experience—from concept and design to manufacturing and testing, their process is unmatched."

We were so excited to hear how this trip impacted members of our team members and hope they came back feeling inspired and ready to design!