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Welcome Back, Chiclet Modular Sofa!

We LOVE a good reissue! Herman Miller regularly revisits its furniture archives for inspiration, and sometimes even decides that a piece deserves another go around based on relevancy. This month, the Wilkes Modular Sofa Group – also known colloquially as “Chiclet” for its rounded edges that resemble the gum – is having another moment in the sun.

sofa detail

Minimalism isn’t just straight lines – the most important thing is the form, and the simplicity of making it.

– Ray Wilkes

Designed by Ray Wilkes and first introduced in 1976, the sofa was retired in 1986. Since then, it’s become a hot commodity on the vintage market. While it may have been a bit ahead of its time in ’76, with a radical shape and rounded-edge cushions, Chiclet stands out against today’s bold and trendy sofas to make a statement of its own.

archival image of sofas

Archival Image

Steel brackets join together the seat and back, allowing for a surprising level of comfort. Injection foam molding was used in the original sofa and is used again in the reissue, creating smooth uniform shapes without any waste.

The rerelease of Wilkes’ postmodern design introduces new fabrics and hues, and is available in a chair, 2-seater and 3-seater sofa options. As timeless as ever!

sofa in living space

living space

chair in living space

chair detail

chair detail

chair, two seat sofa, three seat sofa

To learn more about the Wilkes Modular Sofa Group, aka Chiclet, visit hermanmiller.com.

Kelly Beall is Director of Branded Content at Design Milk. The Pittsburgh-based writer and designer has had a deep love of art and design for as long as she can remember, from Fashion Plates to MoMA and far beyond. When not searching out the visual arts, she's likely sharing her favorite finds with others. Kelly can also be found tracking down new music, teaching herself to play the ukulele, or on the couch with her three pets – Bebe, Rainey, and Remy. Find her @designcrush on social.