Herman Miller Chairs

I became a stalker a few weeks ago; on the hunt of some of these great, vintage chairs. Mr. Fix-it and I were on our way back from returning all the grad party tables and chairs to the store: 2 van loads. Ahead of me was a flatbed truck with 6 fiberglass chairs tied on. All I could think of was, "I really hope he's not planning on scrapping those chairs!"

Several years ago I found two blue ones on the side of the road. Cheryl and I were both surprised when we realized what a hot item these chairs were! They are very comfortable, and definitely evoke a modern ethos. One customer explained that she currently worked for Herman Miller, and these molded, fiberglass vintage chairs were very desirable. Good to know!

  

  

The Herman Miller company was founded way back in 1905 in Zeeland Michigan. They started as a basic wood-constructed furniture company, but changed directions in the 30's to a more modern, industrial style. They became a leader in work-place furniture and in the 1970's created the modern office cubical that revolutionized office workspaces. Currently, they are still evolving with the trends. They have recently purchased Design Within Reach and are hoping to become a lifestyle brand rather than just a wholesaler.

Now you understand why I was stalking this chair-load in front of me? As I followed the unsuspecting driver into his driveway, I realized this was the house I had had my eyes on for several years. The junk treasures in this man's backyard stretched for acres, and I had tried leaving notes on his door that I might be interested in some of his loot, but to no avail. This was my chance to develop a new "junk" relationship!

I had new confidence knowing Mr. Fix-it was pulling in behind me. I cautiously walked up to the truck and said, "You're not going to scrap those chairs, are you?" Mr. Collector told me he was planning on keeping them himself, but when he found out he could make some cash on them, he replied that he could get quite a few more;) Turns out a friend of his purchased a semi-truck that was full of them!

Don't exactly know which State University they come from, but it definitely starts with an "R".

The chairs were in pretty good shape, but had some minor scuff marks on them. I treated them to a little gentle cleanser, Bon Ami, to get the surface clean. I then rinsed them with the hose and let them dry in the sun. I'm sure the neighbors were wondering...

Then I lined them up and treated them to some good, old paste wax. It's amazing how beautiful they look once the wax gets buffed up with a soft cloth.

    

The store will be full of them next week for occasional! Come early for the best pick of colors! 

Comments

[Susan]

You scored on that one, congratulations! Yesterday, I went to a church jumble sale and found a 1876 Centenial vase for either 25 or 50 cents. I need to start selling because my house looks like a jumble sale!

[Lora Bloomquist]

That's how we got into it, Susan! And the thrill of the hunt is probably what is keeping us in this business too! Love the name "jumble" sale...have never heard that term in our parts: perfect description!