Some collaborations in the world of design become more than just business arrangements—they evolve into enduring partnerships that shape the way we live and work. Such is the case with Herman Miller and Berlin-based Studio 7.5, whose shared journey now spans over 30 years. It’s a story marked by innovation, research, and the creation of furniture that redefines standards of ergonomics and comfort.
Studio 7.5 – Where Engineering Meets Design
Studio 7.5 is a collective of Berlin-based designers who, for more than three decades, have focused on crafting modern, ergonomic furniture. Their work goes beyond aesthetics; it’s driven by functionality. Every design aims to support users and help them work more efficiently. The team believes that great design emerges from real, everyday needs. That’s why they closely observe how people interact with furniture, testing and refining their ideas through empirical research. This hands-on, human-centered approach earned the trust of Herman Miller—a brand that has long set the benchmark for ergonomic office design.
The Beginning of a Visionary Partnership
The collaboration between Herman Miller and Studio 7.5 began with a shared vision: to create an office chair that not only adapts to its user but feels like an extension of their body. The Berlin-based designers and the American manufacturer quickly found common ground, blending engineering precision with deep empathy for human needs.
Their first joint creation, the Mirra chair, debuted in 2003. Studio 7.5 approached its design differently—replacing rigid structures with a flexible back and seat that responded to the user’s movements. Mirra was an instant success and remains one of the most popular office chairs worldwide.
Thirty Years of Groundbreaking Design
Over the past three decades, Herman Miller and Studio 7.5 have produced revolutionary designs that transformed the way we think about comfort and ergonomics at work.
Following the success of Mirra came new challenges. In 2009, they introduced Mirra 2—a lighter, more responsive evolution of the original. But the innovation didn’t stop there.
In 2018, the team unveiled Cosm—a game-changing chair that introduced the Auto-Harmonic Tilt™, a mechanism that adapts to the user’s body without the need for manual adjustment. This intuitive functionality makes Cosm a perfect fit for modern, agile workplaces that value spontaneity and mobility.
Another standout project was Setu—a lightweight, flexible chair designed for fast-paced conference settings where there’s no time for fiddling with levers and knobs. Studio 7.5 designed it with fluidity in mind, making it ideal for those who move frequently and need immediate ergonomic support.
The most recent result of this creative partnership is Zeph—a chair that brings classic aesthetics into contemporary interiors. Inspired by minimalist design, Zeph delivers ergonomic performance without the complexity of traditional adjustment mechanisms. Its one-piece seat shell naturally adapts to the user’s body, offering comfort with simplicity. A wide range of color and upholstery options makes Zeph a perfect fit for both home and office environments.
Looking Ahead: Innovation in Motion
Each of these designs proves that Herman Miller and Studio 7.5 are committed to pushing boundaries. Their chairs don’t just provide comfort—they actively support health, focus, and productivity. Thanks to years of prototyping, testing, and iteration, we now sit more comfortably and work more efficiently. And considering what they’ve achieved so far, it’s safe to say the best is yet to come.
A Future Fueled by Collaboration
Thirty years is a remarkable milestone, but it’s far from the end. Herman Miller and Studio 7.5 have shown that design, when rooted in empathy and driven by innovation, can make everyday life better. Here’s to many more decades of transformative ideas, visionary design, and furniture that truly works for people.
