Designed with a vision of comfort that shaped the future of furniture, Don Chadwick’s modular seating system for Herman Miller remains an influential piece of American design. This seven-part sectional sofa reflects his enduring exploration into adaptable living.

Design

Developed in the 1970s, Chadwick’s design focuses on ergonomics and modularity; each unit can function independently or as part of a larger, sculptural arrangement. The generous curves of the backrest embrace the body, while the low, ribbed black bases create a subtle contrast with the exuberant new upholstery.

This example has been newly upholstered in Ichi-go Ichi-e fabric by Dedar, a bold textile whose name evokes the Japanese concept of treasuring the unrepeatable nature of each moment. The fabric’s irregular pattern, screen-printed in vivid Yves Klein blue, adds visual rhythm. Its powder-pigment aesthetic contrasts against a cream ground, creating a tactile presence through textured, uneven patches. The matte finish of the pigment reinforces the soft, almost chalky appearance of the textile. Together with the sofa’s undulating form, it evokes a sense of movement and spontaneity.

Chadwick’s collaborative work with Herman Miller, including this system, laid groundwork for more experimental seating design in the decades that followed. Still, it remains highly functional, resilient and visually relevant today.

A modular sofa of this scale and sculptural coherence is rare to find. Chadwick’s work offers both clarity of form and enduring comfort.

Condition

The sofa is in excellent condition and has been fully reupholstered. The fabric is new and vivid, and all modules connect tightly. The bases show minimal signs of use.