Alexander Girard’s impact on modern design is profound, notable for his transformative role at Herman Miller. In 1952, he became the pioneering director of their textile department, shifting from the muted tones of the time to vibrant, expressive patterns and colors. His friendship with Charles and Ray Eames informed his creative vision, yet it was Girard’s unique ability to infuse warmth and excitement into interiors that truly distinguished him. The iconic Girard Flower Table, a collaboration with Eero Saarinen for the Miller House, exemplifies his bold approach.
PROJECT OVERVIEW
Designer: Alexander Girard
Collaboration: Eero Saarinen
Brand: Herman Miller
Project: Miller House
Product: Girard Flower Table
Girard initially sought to enhance existing furniture designs by introducing lively fabrics, reshaping the visual and tactile landscape of modern interiors. His first collection was markedly different from the conservative trends of his era, characterized by bright colors, bold textures, and intricate patterns. These textiles revitalized the domestic spaces they adorned, offering a more joyful, human touch. Girard’s philosophy was clear: to complement Herman Miller’s offerings, he had to expand their appeal through the power of aesthetic allure.
The centerpiece of Girard’s collaboration with Saarinen, the Girard Flower Table, was designed for the conversation pit of the Miller House. A sophisticated ensemble in brass, it stood as a vivid tableau, forefront in modernist design discussions. Over the years, Girard crafted over 300 pieces, each a testament to his innovative spirit, bridging the realms of modernism and post-modernism seamlessly. His visionary designs have influenced diverse industries and continue to resonate across generations, both in commercial and residential contexts.
Herman Miller’s textile department flourished under Girard’s direction, blending impeccable design with a joyful essence that became the brand’s hallmark. For more than 70 years, this formula has cemented the company’s reputation for pioneering craftsmanship and design excellence. The Girard Flower Table, in particular, remains integral to the Miller House, albeit with minor updates over the decades, such as the modification in 1977. In 2022, Girard’s legacy saw new life as his grandchildren refurbished the table with Vitra, introducing a modern twist to the celebrated design.
This recent iteration features tubular legs that intertwine elegantly, reminiscent of badminton birdies mid-flight, introducing an element of movement to the piece. The scalloped edges of the tabletop evoke the lively bursts of a flower in bloom, juxtaposed with a finish that grounds it—offered in deep charcoal or a vibrant red. The table’s adaptability for indoor and outdoor settings broadens its appeal, while a lustrous brass finish imparts a luxurious touch, complementing the vibrant garnet conversation pit beautifully.
Beyond textiles and furniture design, Girard’s creative pursuits at Herman Miller included marketing and packaging initiatives, showcasing his extensive versatility and innovation. His workspace was both a sanctuary and a laboratory for playful experimentation, embodying his ethos that any material, if thoughtfully crafted, could be harnessed to create beauty. Girard’s legacy in design continues to inspire, where his keen ability to transcend traditional boundaries has left an indelible mark, as vibrant and dynamic as his designs themselves.
