Herman Miller Unveils the Archival Girard Flower Table

In 1952, Alexander Girard became the founding director of Herman Miller’s textile department. A close friend of Charles and Ray Eames, he believed that many interior fabrics at the time were dull, reserved, and lacking in vibrancy. In response, Girard revolutionized the design world with his first collection, filled with bold patterns, bright colors, and rich textures. “I see my role – and have always seen my role – with Herman Miller as one of adding to what they have, making things more palatable,” he said. The iconic Girard Flower Table, originally designed for the Miller House’s conversation pit in collaboration with architect Eero Saarinen, became the centerpiece, bathed in brass.

Over the next two decades, Girard would design over 300 pieces, reshaping modernism and later influencing post-modernism. His impact extended far beyond design, leaving a lasting legacy across multiple industries. Girard’s work at Herman Miller, defined by a joyful approach to textiles, has been integral to the company’s enduring influence in the design world for over 70 years.

The original Girard Flower Table remains at the heart of the Miller House’s sunken conversation pit, with a modified tabletop added in 1977. In 2022, Girard’s grandchildren, Aleishall Girard Maxon and Kori Girard, co-directors of the Girard Studio, collaborated with Vitra to reimagine the design.

The table’s delicate, intertwining tubular legs bring a sense of movement, while its scalloped edges evoke the shape of a blooming flower. The piece is available in a modern, deep charcoal or a vibrant red, with a powder-coated finish suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The Girard Flower Table is offered in both small and large sizes, maintaining a light, airy profile. Its signature garnet red color highlights the metallic brass details, adding a touch of luxury to the piece.

A true Renaissance man, Girard’s influence spanned beyond design, extending to marketing and packaging within Herman Miller. He was constantly creating and experimenting, with his workspaces reflecting his innovative spirit. Girard once said, “I have no favorite material; anything can be used to create beauty if handled well.”