The Herman Miller Crepe and Rhythm collections both offer premium seating, but they serve different purposes through distinct designs. Crepe is defined by its soft textures, rounded contours, and an overall relaxed, cozy aesthetic perfect for lounge spaces, while Rhythm features a modern, geometric design with modular components built for adaptability in dynamic environments.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you decide which Herman Miller collection is the right fit for your home or office.
Herman Miller Crepe Collection
The Crepe collection is Herman Miller's answer to comfort-first design. It focuses on tactile appeal and inviting warmth, using soft, textured upholstery and plush cushions to create a relaxed atmosphere. This collection is ideal for spaces where comfort and a cozy aesthetic are the main priorities, such as a residential living room or a casual office breakout area.
- What it is: A collection of lounge chairs, sofas, and ottomans centered around soft textures, plush comfort, and a relaxed visual style.
- Key features: Rounded contours, soft and inviting upholstery, plush cushions, and a cozy aesthetic.
- Price: Individual pieces typically range from $1,200 to $3,000, depending on size and fabric choice.
- Style: Timeless and comfortable, with a warm, casual vibe that feels inviting and approachable.
- Materials/Construction: Upholstery features high-quality, soft textured fabrics over sturdy hardwood or metal frames designed for long-lasting support.
- Pros: Exceptionally comfortable and cozy. A warm, inviting aesthetic suitable for relaxed environments. High-quality materials and construction. Timeless design that won’t quickly feel dated.
- Cons: Lacks the modular flexibility of other collections. Soft fabrics may require more careful cleaning. Higher price for static, non-configurable pieces.
The Crepe collection is ideal for anyone looking to create a comfortable, intimate setting where a relaxed vibe is more important than seating flexibility.
Shop this product: hermanmiller.com/collections/crepe-rhythm
Herman Miller Rhythm Collection
The Rhythm collection is designed for modern, versatile spaces. It emphasizes modularity and adaptability, allowing you to reconfigure seating arrangements to suit different needs. With clean lines, geometric patterns, and durable materials, Rhythm is perfectly suited for collaborative workspaces, creative studios, or multi-functional homes where flexibility is essential.
- What it is: A modular seating system designed for flexible configurations in dynamic environments.
- Key features: Reconfigurable components, clean lines, geometric aesthetic, durable performance fabrics.
- Price: Complete setups generally range from $1,500 to $4,500, with final costs varying based on the number and type of modules selected.
- Style: Contemporary and adaptable, with a sense of movement that reflects its functional flexibility.
- Materials/Construction: Built with performance-grade, durable fabrics and high-quality hardwood or powder-coated steel frames engineered to withstand frequent reconfiguration.
- Pros: Extremely versatile and scalable for any room size. Modern, clean aesthetic. Built with durable materials for high-traffic areas. Can be reconfigured as needs change over time.
- Cons: Price can be high for larger configurations. Less focus on plush, "sink-in" comfort compared to Crepe. The modern style may not suit all decor preferences.
The Rhythm collection is a great choice for modern multi-use spaces that demand adaptable furniture that can evolve with changing needs.
Shop this product: hermanmiller.com/collections/crepe-rhythm
Crepe vs. Rhythm Comparison
Style & Aesthetic
The primary difference between these two collections lies in their visual and functional approach. The Crepe collection exudes a soft, warm, and inviting aesthetic. Its rounded shapes and plush textures are designed to create a sense of comfort and relaxation, making it perfect for residential lounges, cozy corners, and informal meeting spots in an office.
In contrast, the Rhythm collection is distinctly modern and geometric. Its clean lines and modular nature create a dynamic and organized look suitable for contemporary spaces. Rhythm’s style is less about cozy vibes and more about functional versatility and a sharp, sophisticated appearance, making it a natural fit for collaborative offices and minimalist homes.
Materials & Construction
Both collections uphold Herman Miller’s high standards for quality, but they prioritize different material properties. Crepe uses soft, textured upholstery designed for tactile comfort. While durable, the focus is on the look and feel of the fabric. The frames are robust, made from hardwood or metal to provide lasting support for a seated lounge piece.
Rhythm is built for endurance and reconfiguration. It uses performance-grade fabrics that are more resistant to wear and tear, suitable for high-traffic environments. Its structural components are engineered for stability and longevity through countless reconfigurations, often utilizing powder-coated steel or similarly resilient frame materials.
Dimensions & Sizing
Sizing reflects the core purpose of each collection. Crepe offers standard furniture forms like lounge chairs, sofas, and ottomans in various sizes that are ideal for small to medium-sized spaces. These are static pieces designed to fit within a planned layout.
Rhythm thrives on its customizable scale. Composed of modular units, it can be configured into anything from a small two-person seating cluster to a large arrangement for a common area. This adaptability makes it suitable for practically any room size, as you can add or subtract modules as needed.
Price & Value
While both are premium collections, their pricing structure is different. With Crepe, you are buying individual pieces, so a single lounge chair might be a more accessible starting point, typically from $1,200 to $3,000. It offers value through its timeless comfort and aesthetic.
Rhythm’s price is dependent on the configuration, and complete setups can run from $1,500 up to $4,500+. The value here lies in its immense versatility. Though potentially more expensive upfront for a large setup, its ability to adapt to new spaces or functions means it can serve you longer without needing replacement.
Which One Should You Choose?
Both collections are excellent investments, but they are designed for very different users and spaces.
Choose the Crepe collection if:
- You prioritize plush, "sink-in" comfort over anything else.
- You are furnishing a residential living room, a cozy reading nook, or a relaxed office lounge.
- You prefer warm, inviting aesthetics with soft textures and rounded shapes.
- You need individual, standalone furniture pieces rather than a reconfigurable system.
Choose the Rhythm collection if:
- You need flexible, versatile seating that can adapt to changing needs.
- You are designing a collaborative workspace, a creative studio, or a modern, open-plan home.
- You prefer a clean, geometric style and highly durable materials.
- You value the ability to reconfigure, expand, or shrink your seating layout over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between Herman Miller Crepe and Rhythm?
The main difference is purpose and style. Crepe is focused on comfort with fixed, plush pieces for relaxing. Rhythm is modular and designed for flexibility and collaboration in modern spaces.
Which collection is more comfortable?
Crepe is generally considered more comfortable for lounging due to its soft textures, plush cushioning, and relaxed, cozy design. Rhythm is designed for active sitting in collaborative environments and prioritizes support and durability over a deep, plush feel.
Is the Rhythm collection suitable for a family home?
Yes, Rhythm can be a great choice for a modern family home, especially in a media room or playroom. Its durability and reconfigurable nature mean it can withstand active use and adapt as children grow and spatial needs change.
Can I see these collections in person?
Yes, Herman Miller showrooms and authorized dealers worldwide carry floor models. Visiting a showroom is the best way to experience the comfort of Crepe and the versatility of Rhythm firsthand.
What kind of warranty does Herman Miller offer on these collections?
Herman Miller offers a comprehensive warranty, typically ranging from 5 to 12 years depending on the specific components. This covers defects in materials and workmanship, reflecting their commitment to quality.
How do you clean the upholstery on Crepe and Rhythm furniture?
Cleaning instructions depend on the specific fabric chosen. Herman Miller provides detailed care guides for each textile, which generally involve vacuuming regularly and spot-cleaning with appropriate solutions. The performance fabrics on Rhythm are typically easier to clean.
Is Crepe or Rhythm more expensive?
It depends on the configuration. A single Crepe lounge chair might cost less than a small Rhythm setup. However, a large, multi-module Rhythm configuration will likely be more expensive than a standard Crepe sofa.
Does Herman Miller use sustainable materials in these collections?
Yes, Herman Miller is a leader in sustainability. Both collections use eco-friendly fabrics and materials from responsible sources. The company holds numerous certifications like FSC and GREENGUARD Gold for its commitment to environmental standards.
At Interior Insider, we're dedicated to curating the best in home decor, interior design, and home essentials to help you discover brands we think you'll love. Every brand we feature is independently selected by our editorial team based on quality, design, and craftsmanship. When you make a purchase through our links, Interior Insider may earn a commission - which helps support our small team and allows us to continue bringing you inspiration and expert advice for creating your perfect space.
Looking for more inspiration? Explore our curated design guides to find your next favorite piece.
