Modern Icon: George Nelson's Marshmallow Sofa
In sweet colors or purest white, this playful, floating seating may just define 'eye candy'
Sitting on this iconic midcentury sofa is almost as fun as roasting s'mores. Designed by George Nelson in 1956, the original piece experimented with low-cost cushions created from injection-plastic discs, and they did not work out. However, the powers that be at Herman Miller decided to manufacturer it with different cushions, and they're still doing it 56 years later.
I worry I am playing favorites with George Nelson in this Icons series, but the truth is, the man was incredibly prolific, and his work covers everything from Coconut chairs to cigar-shaped pendant lights. Here's a closer look at the sofa.
I worry I am playing favorites with George Nelson in this Icons series, but the truth is, the man was incredibly prolific, and his work covers everything from Coconut chairs to cigar-shaped pendant lights. Here's a closer look at the sofa.
The Marshmallow Sofa is composed of 18 "marshmallows" held up by a steel frame. Each cushion is approximately 10 inches in diameter. The group of them appears to float on air.
The sofa had early pop appeal, as seen in this midcentury Eichler, which mixes iconic furnishings with an incredible art collection that includes a portrait by Andy Warhol.
The home mixes in many iconic pieces by Nelson's contemporaries, including a light fixture by Louis Poulsen, a table by Florence Knoll and Executive chairs by Eero Saarinen.
This black vinyl version of the sofa blends right in with Eiffel-base Eames Shell chairs and a playful Eames Hang-It-All in this cheerful office. The sofa cushions are available in a range of colors in both crepe and vinyl.
The marshmallow cushions stand out against this moody black wall, providing a transition between it and the bright white block floor lights.
Of course the sofa looks marshmallowiest in bright white. While I wouldn't dare drink coffee or red wine anywhere near this piece, the cushions easily detach for cleaning.
This vinyl version in candy colors reminds me of Spree candies. You can have the cushions upholstered in any combination of colors you choose, and this model gives you a good idea of the endless possibilities.
Finally, for the true design aficionado, a tiny model of the sofa is available from Vitra. At this price, you certainly won't want to let your child put it in the Barbie dream house, but you will want to display it like a playful piece of art.
More Modern Icons:
The Great Nelson Bench
George Nelson Clocks
The Barcelona Couch
More Modern Icons:
The Great Nelson Bench
George Nelson Clocks
The Barcelona Couch
