Above: The Comprehensive Storage System – or CSS – designed by George Nelson & Associates and first manufactured by Herman Miller in 1959. Photo: loftthirteen.com
There have been several classic George Nelson & Associate pieces that have been re-issued in recent years. Under license from Herman Miller Vitra has reissued the Coconut Chair, the Marshmallow sofa, the ‘Swag Leg’ desk, and dozens of GN&A clocks. What’s baffling however is why Herman Miller has yet to re-issue one of their most successful – as well as one of the most beautiful – of the George Nelson & Associates designs, the Comprehensive Storage System. Made from aluminum and teak or walnut (as well as custom finishes) the CSS was first produced by Herman Miller in 1959. A fully modular system the customer could purchase as many ‘panels’ as needed and then, via a universal attachment, outfit the system with as many options as needed. As well as shelves and storage there were dozens of options available for the CSS, options that included lighting, a radio, speakers, a weather station, a fold away desk, record storage, vanity mirror, and even a fold-away bed (although this may have been a one-off presentation option). Herman Miller ceased production on the CSS in 1973 and today the shelving is much sought after and commands high prices at auction. So again, why hasn’t these been reissued?
A rather long CSS from George Nelson & Associates. Photo: George Nelson Foundation
The many permutations of George Nelson & Associates ' Comprehensive Storage System. Click on image for full view
Image from the 1964 Herman Miller catalog.
Early Brochure images for the Comprehensive Storage System from George Nelson & Associates. Click on image for full view
Check out these great books!
