Sample Book, Knoll Wall

Knoll Wall is a sample book of the first group of woven wallcoverings produced by Knoll. The wallcoverings were developed by Merle Lindby-Young, then creative director of Knoll’s textile division, and were introduced in the fall of 1984. The wallcoverings were designed to meet specific standards, such as ease of installation and a Class A fire rating.
The sample book contains a large swatch of each of the six different designs, along with smaller swatches to show additional colorways. The designs are a mix of subtle textures and solids. The fabric content varies by sample, but includes silk, linen, flax, rayon, polyester, and modacrylic. The use of modacrylic is significant because it is flame retardant and does not combust. It is also a highly durable fiber with a moderate resistance to abrasion. When modacrylics are mixed with natural fibers, they carry the look of the wool, linen or silk while meeting the stringent safety requirements of contract installations.
This sample book illustrates Knoll’s early contribution to the field of wallcoverings. This significant book also relates to pieces in the museum’s collection. Sample books are a particular strength of the museum’s wallcoverings collection, and the addition of this book would continue to broaden our holdings and fortify interdepartmental connections.

Sample Book, Knoll Wall; Manufactured by Knoll Textiles (United States); woven fabric containing silk, linen, rayon, polyester, flax, modacrylic, wool, paper support; L x W x D: 27.9 x 21.6 cm (11 x 8 1/2 in.); Gift of the Bard Graduate Center: Decorative Arts, Design History, Material Culture; 2011-22-5