Nelson became the Director of Design for Herman Miller in 1947, and held the position until 1972. Under Nelson's Directorship the Herman Miller product range grew to include some of the most iconic home furnishings of the 20th century. Designers Ray and Charles Eames, Harry Bertoia, Richard Schultz, Donald Knorr, and Isamu Noguchi all worked for Herman Miller under Nelson's supervision.

In 1952 George Nelson's vision for Herman Miller included “a permanent collection designed to meet fully the requirements for modern living.” Now called the 'The Collection', his concept has evolved into a comprehensive catalogue of timeless pieces that's as much at home in the 21st century as it was when George Nelson described it.