Users with virtual knock-offs can get the real thing for free.
by Mairi Beautyman

Herman Miller has embarked on a unique venture to curtail unauthorized knock-offs. The furniture manufacturer now offers “authentic, authorized” virtual renderings of its designer products to users of the 3D virtual community Second Life.


Members of Second Life, a virtual world and social networking site, can use Herman Miller’s virtual designs of designer pieces such as the Eames lounge and ottoman, the Nelson Marshmallow sofa, and the Aeron office chair to furnish their digitally-rendered homes and facilities. The site currently serves millions of users from over 100 countries.

For Second Life users who currently have virtual knock-offs of Herman Miller products, purchased from unauthorized sellers, Herman Miller offers the opportunity to “Get Real” free of charge (users must delete the virtual knock-offs and the deal is available for a limited time only). First time buyers can purchase designs priced between (Linden dollars) L$300-L$850, or approximately U.S. $1.40 to $3.50.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for people and businesses in the virtual world to enjoy great, authentic design, from the company that commissioned and collaborated with some of the world’s greatest industrial designers,” says Marg Mojzak, director of Herman Miller for the Home. “For some time we’ve urged customers to ‘check the product, check the source, and check your conscience’ before purchasing a classic.”

Virtual images courtesy of Herman Miller.