Exploring the innovative ‘total design’ philosophy of designer and co-founder Florence Knoll, the brightest talents of the Australian design community assembled for an industry celebration of one of the world’s most impactful brands. 

Knoll’s panel discussion, Total Design – The Enduring Legacy of Knoll, hosted at the Living Edge showroom in Sydney’s inner-city suburb of Alexandria, brought together a decorated panel of design leaders, sharing their unique insights into Florence Knoll’s enduring impact on contemporary design.

Leading the evening’s discussions were Hassell principal Emily Moss, COX director Brooke Lloyd, Arent&Pyke creative director and co-founder Juliette Arent Squadrito and MillerKnoll workplace strategist Alexandra Ramundi.

The evening’s panel discuss the influence of Knoll design at the Living Edge showroom.

Moderated by Alice Blackwood, the panel discussion explored how Florence Knoll’s ‘total design’ aesthetic redefined modern interiors through the conscious integration of furnishings, textiles and spatial proxemics when planning a cohesive interior vision.

Encompassing corporate and personal spaces, as well as hospitality sectors, Knoll’s unique approach to design has shaped the way we see interiors across all industries today. Laying the groundwork for the integrated workplace environments that represent the current norm, Knoll’s post-war aesthetic principles have remained foundational to the most cutting-edge design language in contemporary architecture.

COX director Brooke Lloyd shares her thoughts.

Founded in New York in 1938, the brand has secured its reputation for design excellence with a decades-long roster of collaborations with influential artists and architects.

A showcase of global design in familiar Australian settings

The panel discussion was hosted on 20 August 2025 by Living Edge in partnership with Knoll. In attendance were a selection of the country’s leading architects and industry thought leaders, who shared an evening of unique conversation, connection and innovation while surrounded by iconic Knoll pieces.

As Living Edge CEO Aidan Mawhinney said, “Knoll represents integrity, innovation and creating environments that endure. Those same values sit at the heart of Living Edge, which is why representing Knoll feels like such a natural alignment. Together, we’re committed to bringing authentic, lasting design to the Australian market.”

Members of the Australian design community mingle and network after the presentation.

Knoll’s continued presence within the Australian market underlines the influence of events such as The Enduring Legacy of Knoll, emphasising the brand’s commitment to securing its place as a leading voice in modern luxury furnishings.

MillerKnoll regional sales manager, Australia and New Zealand, Josh Coughlan said, “Knoll’s presence in Australia is being reinforced through our partnership with Living Edge. By making the brand accessible through one of the country’s leading design destinations, we are strengthening Knoll’s position in the market and ensuring architects and designers can experience the full breadth of its portfolio firsthand.”

Photography by Cassandra Hannagan.

Related: MillerKnoll Archives inspires creatives with a century of storytelling.