Knoll A Modernist Universe Rizzoli Brian Lutz Hardback 2010. Condition As New. The history of Knoll is the history of modern design. Founded in 1938 by Hans Knoll and joined by his wife Florence Schust Knoll, the company is credited for bringing European modern design to America then nurturing the best homegrown talents at mid-century to build the most successful and prestigious high-end furniture company in the world.