Florence Knoll

Florence Knoll (1917-2019)

Famed for her architecture and modern furniture designs, Florence Knoll achieved huge commercial success with her minimalist yet interactive style. Born in Saginaw, Michigan in 1917, Knoll graduated from Kingswood School before studying at the Cranbrook Academy of Art.

In 1941, the American designer briefly worked with and became influenced by the leaders of the Modernist Bauhaus movement.

Florence Knoll felt architects should naturally contribute their design ability to furniture, a relationship which is evident throughout her works. Knoll’s American interpretation of minimalism created furniture pieces that became design icons of the 20th century.

The interior of the CBS Building in New York City stands as one her crowning projects, whilst Knoll’s furniture has exhibited on numerous occasions at MoMA. In 2002, the American designer was awarded with the prestigious National Medal of Arts, recognition as one of the most outstanding designers of her generation.