While a student at Cranbrook Academy of Art in the late 40’s early 50’s, Niels Diffrient also worked as a designer and model-maker in Eero Saarinen’s practice. This is just the beginning of an illustrious design career in which ergonomic study and design has become a passion and expertise. Designing office seat furniture for Knoll and Sunar-Hausermann in the 80’s preceded Diffrient’s current pursuits at Humanscale, the ergonomic workplace furniture and accessories design manufacturer.
Diffrient in his studio
Jefferson Chair for Sunar-Hausermann, 1983
Humanscale: Diffrient Work Light II
Humanscale: Liberty Chair
What is your favorite example of great design?
EARTH
What is the most memorable moment in your career as a designer?
BIRTH
What is the most important factor that influences and/or inspires your design process?
SLEEP
One Comment
Working as I do so often with the great Niels Diffrient, it is sheer pleasure and enlightenment. A man of few words as you can tell – but in person – there’s more than a few and they are truly respectful, responsible and often remarkable.