Ray Wilkes began his career in New York on a Royal College of Art grant, where he connected with George Nelson’s design office and quickly made a mark through practical problem-solving and creative thinking. Early in his career, he worked on design challenges such as improving the Herman Miller-produced Sling Sofa, demonstrating both technical curiosity and a commitment to improving function through design.

Wilkes later joined Herman Miller full-time under design director Bob Blaich in Michigan, where his experimentation with foam-injection technology led to the development of the Modular Sofa Group in 1976. Characterized by smooth, rounded cushions that earned it the nickname “Chiclet,” this postmodern lounge seating combined simple, distinctive shapes with vibrant upholstery options and remains an influential example of playful yet purposeful furniture design.

In addition to the Modular Sofa Group, Wilkes contributed complementary pieces such as a coffee table and the adjustable Rollback Chair during his time at Herman Miller. After leaving the company, he continued his career as a design consultant across England, Europe, and the United States, extending his pragmatic and minimalist design philosophy into broader creative work.