Room by Room – the Nelson Marshmallow Sofa

This week, Room by Room with FormFire Glassworks looks at a Herman Miller classic that always seems to evoke a smile, the Nelson Marshmallow Sofa.

First produced in 1956 by George Nelson, this small sofa (seats 2 people fairly closely together) is often shown as part of a retro movie set. Often seen with multicolor cushions, this piece can live comfortably in a modern home when all the pads share a single color. Fresh in white, more understated in black, and a stand-out in red, the comfortable cushions rest on a tubular steel frame. This sofa is great for a small area that needs occasional seating, not everyday use, and also works well in a reception area of an office. Fully functional, this is a fun piece that can easily be updated by changing the pad upholstery. Produced by Herman Miller, this sofa is available through DWR.

My accessory choices for the Marshmallow Sofa are based on the idea of whimsy. It is important to separate this from kitsch – we’re not talking silliness here, but a grin and a giggle  from clever objects with clean strong design, made from quality materials and careful craftsmanship. A hanging light fixture created from wood hangers has a great play of shape and transparency that gives a second reading up close. A hard porcelain vase given a soft knit pattern plays with texture and our conceptions. A table clock has simple lines and great color, but screamed from a money box. Cork trivets fit together like puzzle pieces, allowing guests to rearrange the current layout. A play on an idiomatic phrase, the “shake-a-leg” salt and pepper shakers are whimsical, but the clean simple design of their shape makes them perfectly at home. Certainly, I would not suggest a room filled with whimsical items, as this would take away from all of them, but a piece here and there can liven up a space while completing the look of your room.

Next week I will choose a new iconic piece and give you my picks for accessorizing your modern home.