No Compromise: The Work of Florence Knoll

Abstract

In her richly illustrated new book, No Compromise: The Work of Florence Knoll, architect and writer Ana Araujo examines the history and legacy of American designer Florence Knoll. As Araujo explains in her introduction, although the book is titled No Compromise, a reference to a quote associated with Knoll herself demonstrating her fierce commitment to the principles of her work, Florence Knoll’s life and work was largely shaped by the need to constantly compromise professionally, aesthetically, and even personally. Using compromise as a framing device, Araujo examines some of the tensions embedded in Knoll’s personal and professional history. Not surprisingly, a large portion of the book centers on Florence Knoll’s pivotal role in shaping the Knoll company, its products, its aesthetic, and its public image over her two decade career with the company. In contrast to her business partner and eventual spouse Hans Knoll who was reportedly charismatic...