A brand known to vintage mid-century modern furniture collectors everywhere, Directional Furniture opened its doors after American furniture designer Paul McCobb created the high-end Directional Modern line of sofas distributed by the New York–based Modernage Company.
In his pivotal introduction of postwar modernism to the mass market, the revered Massachusetts-born McCobb had established several lines, from the affordable and refined Planner Group for Winchendon to the swooping and unexpected arms of the Symmetric Group for Widdicomb, a Shaker-inspired collection that included a sofa and a lounge chair. Like all of McCobb’s designs, the Directional pieces for Modernage are defined by a sleek aesthetic in which the focus is on elegant functionality, frequently using fine materials such as brass and walnut. In 1949, in partnership with New York furniture salesman B.G. Mesberg, McCobb set up the Directional Furniture Company.
The pair’s first pieces were upholstered chairs, intended to harmonize with the modular Multiplex pieces designed by Martin Feinman. McCobb then designed an array of furniture including storage, dining, seating, desks and other pieces with details such as leather tops, wood finishes and Roman Travertine surfaces. While Directional stopped production of McCobb’s work in the early 1960s, it still released numerous pieces by leading designers manufactured by a variety of companies.
Designer Paul Evans led the factory for a time after joining in 1964. His provocative work for the company often reflected his understanding of materials from his early training as a silversmith, such as the popular Cityscape series — a milestone in brutalist design — with its blocky forms accented with brass and chrome. At his shop in Lambertville, New Jersey, he collaborated with a design team to clad furniture pieces in metallic surfaces, like the Argente line that began production in 1968 and involved an acetylene torch to give its aluminum material a textural quality. He also worked on the Sculpted Bronze series with hand-formed resin shaped over plywood or steel that was then coated with atomized bronze.
Other Directional designers included Vladimir Kagan, who contributed biomorphic sofas and swivel chairs; Milo Baughman, who created tables and dressers inspired by Scandinavian modernism; and Jack Lenor Larsen, who covered sofas in dynamically patterned fabric.
Find authentic Directional Furniture seating, tables, case pieces and storage cabinets from top sellers around the world on 1stDibs.
Pair of Vladimir Kagan Hurricane Lounge Chairs in New Chocolate Brown Bouclé
By Vladimir Kagan, Directional
Located in Saint Louis, MO
A pair of sculptural icons from the master of movement himself, these rare Vladimir Kagan Hurricane Lounge Chairs, c. 1996, embody the sensual, biomorphic language that made Kagan on...
Bouclé, Upholstery, Wood
Directional Mid-Century Modern Cherry and Burl Wood Dining Table, Refinished
By Directional
Located in South Bend, IN
An exceptional Mid-Century Modern extension dining table By Directional USA, Circa 1960s Gorgeous figural cherry wood, with burl wood banding. Measures: 72"W x 44.25"D x 38.75"H....
Cherry, Burl
Paul Evans for Directional Mid Century Patchwork Burlwood T Bar Console Table
By Directional, Paul Evans
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Paul Evans for Directional Mid Century Patchwork Burlwood T Bar Console Table This T bar console table measures: 60.5 wide x 20 deep x 32 inches high Restored - Mint Condition! Rea...
Burl
Milo Baughman Campaign Chest Espresso Brown w/ Nickel Trim Mid Century Modern
By Directional, Milo Baughman
Located in Atlanta, GA
Elegant Campaign Chest or Dresser, designed by Milo Baughman for Directional, American, circa 1960s. Signed with Directional label inside. This piece offers a voluminous amount of st...
Chrome, Metal
Paul Mccobb Room Divider for Calvin Furniture Company
By Paul McCobb, Directional
Located in Chicago, IL
Paul McCobb Room Divider for Calvin Furniture Company, Features Mahogany, solid brass and glass shelves. Lower section has Five Drawers with brass...
Brass
Post Modern Directional Pouf Ottoman in Ivory White Boucle
By Directional
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Timelessly sexy and oh so versatile pouf ottoman by Directional professionally reupholstered in soft ivory white boucle with a high durability rating (over 50k double rubs). Plush and comfortable, the poufs can be easily incorporated as ottomans with other designer pieces or stand on their own for that extra seat. Pair available. Want to see more beautiful things? Scroll down below and click "View All From Seller" or favorite our shop to get your 1stDibs on our new inventory. Photographed with and also currently available in our shop- Pair of Preview Tri Leg Post Modern Armchairs...
Bouclé, Upholstery
Mid-Century Modern Brass Swivel Lounge Chairs by Directional
By Directional, Milo Baughman
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Experience the timeless allure of mid-century design with this striking pair of vintage brass swivel lounge chairs, crafted by Directional in the United States during the iconic 1970...
Brass
SOLD 03/24/26 Paul Evans for Directional PE-102 Stalagmite Bronze Dining Table
By Paul Evans, Directional
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Paul Evans for Directional PE-102 Mid Century Stalagmite Bronze Dining Table This dining table measures: 90 wide x 47.75 deep x 28.75 inches high, with a chair clearance of 28 inche...
Bronze
$4,900Sale Price|50% Off
Paul McCobb for Directional Off-White Velvet Sofa, 1950s
By Paul McCobb, Directional
Located in Miami, FL
Reupholstered Mid-Century Modern model 1307 light cream velvet sofa by Paul McCobb for Directional. The couch has been recovered in a gorgeous neutra...
Velvet, Mahogany
Vintage Directional Mid Century Modern Tubular Aluminum Base Swivel Ottoman
By Directional
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Directional Mid Century Modern Tubular Aluminum Base Swivel Footstool Ottoman. Item features vinyl cushion, aluminum star base, original tag. Circa Late 20th Century. Measure...
Aluminum, Chrome
$3,520Sale Price|20% Off
Directional Custom Collection Eight Drawer Dresser
By Directional, Milo Baughman
Located in New York, NY
Exceptional large double dresser by Directional, as part of the classic Custom Collection series, circa 1970’s. This impressive dresser features two banks of four drawers, having lux...
Metal
Vladimir Kagan Post Modern Ivory Bouclé Swivel Chairs & Ottoman for Directional
By Directional, Vladimir Kagan
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Post modern pair of Vladimir Kagan tilt and swivel chairs for directional with custom en suite ottoman newly reupholstered in soft luxurious ivory white bouclé. Modern. Plush. Sexy. Uber comfy. These are large statement piece swivel chairs. Come to Momma. Take the weight of the world off in uber luxurious modern comfort. Curvy plush over sized arm rests envelop you like a mink stole. Tilt back and take a deep breath or sit side saddle and recline your legs. Swivel about with your best scotch. Super soft ivory bouclé fabric ventilates well - cozy in winter and cool in summer. These Vladimir Kagan swivel lounge chairs are perfect for a Malibu beach...
Bouclé, Upholstery
Channeled Art Deco Sofa by Directional
By Directional
Located in Chicago, IL
c. 1980s. USA. Extremely rare piece by Directional. Reupholstered in blue Maharam Gemma wool.
Wool
1980s Weiman Curved Serpentine Sofa and Swivel Chairs, 3 Pieces
By Directional
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Original rare set of 3, 1980s Iconic serpentine cloud sofa and swivel chairs are packed with personality! Outstanding design is exhibited throughout the monumental form. The Vintage complete set are beyond stunning. Beautiful colors in ultra suede light...
Upholstery, Wood
MCM 3 Piece Modular Sectional Sofa By Directional In Original Fabric
By Directional
Located in Chicago, IL
Mid Century Modern 3 Peace Modular Living Room Set by Directional in Original Fabric The Mid Century Modern 3 Piece Modular Living Room Set by Directional showcases a timeless desig...
Upholstery
1990s Post Modern Muave Swivel Chairs by Michael Wolk for Directional, Set of 2
By Directional
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
On offer on this occasion is one of the most iconic swivel chairs you could hope to find. Outstanding design is exhibited throughout. The beautiful chairs are statement piece and very comfortable. The award-winning Miami Swivel...
Upholstery, Wood
Paul McCobb for Directional Mid Century Walnut and Cane Dining Chairs, Set of 6
By Directional, Paul McCobb
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Paul McCobb for Directional Mid Century walnut and cane dining chairs - set of 6 Each armless chair measures: 16.5 wide x 16.5 deep x 34.5 high, with a seat height of 17.25 inches...
Cane, Walnut
$9,000Sale Price / set|20% Off
Re-Upholstered Michael Wolk for Directional Swivel Chairs, A Pair, Post-Modern
By Directional, Michael Wolk
Located in Round Top, TX
A pair of Michael Wolk-designed "Miami" chairs. This beautiful set of swivel chairs were designed by Miami-based New York designer Michael Wolk. Th...
Textile, Wood
Paul Evans Cityscape Dining Table Base, Burl & Brass, 1975
By Directional, Paul Evans
Located in Hanover, MA
Paul Evans Cityscape dining table base with burl veneer and brass plated stainless steel tiles. Base alone dimensions 28.5 x 49 x 19 Glass shown in photos for scale 72" x 40" Beautif...
Brass
Paul Evans "Cityscape" Dining / Console Table
By Directional, Paul Evans
Located in Denton, TX
Paul Evans cityscape for Directional dining / console table with chrome-plated steel and burled wood base. Glass not included Base dimensions: 63 L x 19 D x 28.38 Glass: 71 3/...
Steel, Chrome
1980s Directional Kagan Black Microsuede and Leather Swivel Chairs, Set of 2
By Directional
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
On offer on this occasion is one of the most stunning, chairs you could hope to find. This is an ultra-rare opportunity to acquire what is, unequivocally, the best of the best, it be...
Leather, Upholstery, Wood
Directional Waterfall Ottoman Set, Auburn Velvet, Art Deco, USA, 1980s
By Directional
Located in Southampton, NJ
A superb pair of waterfall ottomans by Directional 1980's production fully restored in plush Auburn brown velvet.
Velvet, Wood
Mid Century Paul Evans Wall Mirror & Console Table Shelf in Brass & Chrome
By Paul Evans, Directional
Located in Philadelphia, PA
An incredible design combination, a cityscape wall shelf and mirror designed by Paul Evans in the 1970's. The set features fine heavy construction with brass & chrome clad patchwork ...
Brass, Chrome
Mid Century Paul McCobb for Directional Lounge Chair 1950s
By Paul McCobb, Directional
Located in Troy, MI
Exceptional lounge chair designed by Paul McCobb for Directional circa 1950s Sculpted alnut frame with splayed legs and fluted armrests Uphols...
Fabric, Walnut
Paul McCobb for Directional Black Lacquer and Brass Dining Table, Refinished
By Paul McCobb, Calvin Furniture, Directional
Located in South Bend, IN
An exceptional Mid-Century Modern extension dining table By Paul McCobb for Directional and produced by Calvin Furniture USA, 1950s Black lacquered mahogany, with brass stretchers...
Brass
Milo Baughman Walnut Buffet for Directional
By Milo Baughman, Directional
Located in Esperance, NY
Available for sale is this excellent mid-century walnut buffet. The top is removable, this stunning piece retains its original label,
Walnut
Paul McCobb for Directional model 1323 Loose Cushion 1956
By Paul McCobb, Directional
Located in Chicago, IL
Paul McCobb for Directional Model 1323 Loose-Cushion Lounge Chair, 1956 A classic mid-century lounge chair designed by Paul McCobb for Directional in 1956. The sculptural walnut bas...
Upholstery, Walnut
$14,750 / set
Pair of Large Swiveling Lounge Chairs by Directional
By Directional
Located in Dallas, TX
Thoughtfully curated pair of vintage swivel chairs by Directional, circa 1980's. Acquire leisure time with artful ease. Luxuriant and enveloping, featuring a classic yet minimalist d...
Upholstery, Wood
Pair of Vladimir Kagan Cactus Low Back Wingback Chairs
By Vladimir Kagan, Directional
Located in Dallas, TX
An exceedingly rare set of Vladimir Kagan for Directional stylized wingback lounge chairs. Vladimir Kagan was an illustrious American furniture designer whose historic career spanned...
Upholstery, Wood
Pair of Vladimir Kagan Directional Nautilus Corkscrew Swivel Chairs Black & Blue
By Directional, Vladimir Kagan
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Designed by Vladimir Kagan for prestigious manufacturer Directional, this symmetrical (left and right) pair of chairs are rare and exclusive. Their distinct and organic design featur...
Upholstery, Wood
Directional Milo Baughman Swivel Beige Leather Club Lounge Arm Chairs - a Pair
By Directional
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Milo Baughman for Directional Swivel Beige Leather Club Lounge Arm Chairs - a Pair. Item features large swivel and return frames, beige high quality leather upholstery, original labe...
Leather
Vladimir Kagan A-Symmetric Settee in Ivory Bouclé by Directional, c. 1991
By Vladimir Kagan, Directional
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Asymmetrical and chic Directional Vladimir Kagan Post Modern Settee professionally reupholstered in soft ivory white bouclé. All new cushioning and u...
Bouclé, Upholstery
Milo Baughman Black Lacquer Parsons Style Dining Table
By Milo Baughman, Directional
Located in Dallas, TX
An iconic dining table by Milo Baughman for Directional. Table is well constructed and comes with two leaves each of which is 20"W. Without leaves table is 66"W. Black lacquer.
Wood, Lacquer
Paul McCobb for Directional Walnut Chest of Drawers, Brass Pulls
By Paul McCobb, Directional
Located in Astoria, NY
Paul McCobb for Directional Walnut Chest of Drawers, the four drawers with brass pulls, "Directional" plaque to interior top drawer. 26" H x 32" W x 18" D. Provenance: From a West ...
Walnut
$6,500 / set
Pair of Milo Baughman Style Lounge Chairs
By Milo Baughman, Directional
Located in Chicago, IL
Pair of Milo Baughman Style Lounge Chairs, Reupholstered in Alpaca. Made in Italy Dimensions: 29" high 25" wide 27.50" deep 18.50" set height
Alpaca
Pair of Vladimir Kagan Nautilus Swivel Lounge Chairs and Ottoman in Ivory Bouclé
By Vladimir Kagan, Directional
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Amongst the most popular Vladimir Kagan designs, these Nautilus swivel lounge chairs are sculptural, comfortable and fun, and were recently professionally reupholstered in cozy Ivory Boucle. Corkscrew shape with sloped back and scrolled arm. The Nautilus chairs swivel making them a good choice for open floor plans - you may align your sight with any person or object in the room simply with a gentle swivel. Matching contoured Ottoman is on casters and seamlessly rolls into place like a puzzle piece inviting you to relax and put your feet up with a good book or a glass of your favorite vino. Fabric is highly durable; it's texture provides for ventilation to keep warm in winter and cool in summer. Want to see more beautiful things? Scroll down below and click "View All From Seller" or favorite our shop to get your 1stDibs on our new inventory. Nautilus Swivel Chairs: 36” W x 33” D x 29” H (Seat Height 17”) Ottoman: 33” W x 21” D x 17” H Photographed along with and also currently available in our shop: Post Modern Karl Springer Style ottoman...
Bouclé
Paul Mccobb for Directional Walnut Slipper Chairs Model #1320
By Directional, Paul McCobb
Located in Lynn, MA
Rare pair of Paul McCobb designed Model #1320 slipper chairs for Directional. Solid walnut frames with high quality performance treated boucle ( spill, stain and moisture resistant)...
Walnut
MCM Nautilus Asymmetrical Swivel Lounge Chairs - Pair
By Directional
Located in Chicago, IL
Mid Century Modern Nautilus Asymmetrical Swivel Lounge Chairs by Directional in Ice-Blu Suede - Pair Experience the elegance of mid-century modern design with this pair of Directional Nautilus...
Suede
Paul Evans for Directional PE-105/106 MCM Bronze Stalagmite Chairs - Set of 6
By Directional, Paul Evans
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Paul Evans for Directional PE-105/106 Mid Century Bronze Stalagmite Chairs - Set of 6 Each armless chair measures: 21 wide x 23 deep x 32.5 high, with a seat height of 18 inches Eac...
Bronze
Leather/Chrome Sled Settee by Arthur Umanoff for Directional
By Arthur Umanoff, Directional
Located in Chicago, IL
c. 1970s. USA. Reupholstered/refoamed in tan leather
Chrome
Pair of High Back Directional Armchairs in Café Bouclé with Bleached Wood Arms
By Directional
Located in Saint Louis, MO
These Directional arm chairs with their tall curved backs and plush seats are the Post Modern incarnation of the classic wing back chair. Unlike traditional wingback chairs with a he...
Bouclé, Bentwood
Mid-Century Cubic Rosewood Nightstands by Directional Furniture
By Directional, Milo Baughman
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Striking pair of Mid-Century Modern nightstands designed and produced by Directional Furniture. These cubic cabinets feature richly grained rosewood veneers with bold linear patterns...
Metal, Chrome
Mid Century Paul Evans Cityscape Wall Mirror & Console Table Shelf in Brass
By Directional, Paul Evans
Located in Philadelphia, PA
An incredible design combination, a cityscape wall shelf and mirror designed by Paul Evans in the 1970's. The set features fine heavy construction with brass clad patchwork design. I...
Brass
$16,664Sale Price / set|20% Off
Rare New Upholstered Beige Paul McCobb Set for Directional, USA - 1950s
By Directional, Paul McCobb
Located in Berlin, DE
Early 1950s Paul McCobb Set for Directional, newly upholstered in Dedar Fabric. The measurements given apply to the sofa. The Lounge Chair measures: D9...
Fabric, Wood
Paul Evans PE-509 Dining Table by Directional Furniture in Walnut Burl
By Directional, Paul Evans
Located in Raleigh, NC
This striking Paul Evans PE-509 dining table by Directional Furniture showcases the designer's masterful patchwork walnut burl construction. The table features Evans' signature tech...
Walnut
Paul McCobb for Directional Black Lacquer and Brass Extension Dining Table
By Paul McCobb, Directional, Calvin Furniture
Located in South Bend, IN
An exceptional Mid-Century Modern extension dining table By Paul McCobb for Directional and produced by Calvin Furniture USA, 1950s Black lacquered mahogany, with brass stretchers...
Brass
Vladimir Kagan Post Modern Clam Chaise Lounge in Soft Ivory White Bouclé 1980s
By Directional, Vladimir Kagan
Located in Saint Louis, MO
All enveloping luxurious comfort best describes this sexy Post Modern Chaise Lounge designed by Vladimir Kagan for Directional newly professionally upholstered in highly durable super soft ivory white bouclé. Famous for his use of curves and amorphous shapes in furnishings, this Vladimir Kagan clam form chaise lounge has an inviting profile and shape that beckons. The inner walls of the chaise provide all enveloping comfort with wide upholstered channels angled down towards the foot of the chaise. The channels - along with the texture of the ivory white bouclé - ventilate naturally keeping you cozy in winter and cool in summer. Unlike traditional chaise lounges that allow one to recline but are not typically plush, this Vladimir Kagan chaise is the antithesis. Super comfortable seat back, tall upholstered arm rests, thick cushioned seat, and angled upholstered side. Chic, sexy and luxurious. Works for all activities - naughty or nice - at all hours of the day. Enjoy your morning cup of tea or coffee while catching up on emails or reading the latest headlines. Cozy up with a good book and a glass of wine. Activities will be enjoyed all the more reclined atop this Vladimir Kagan Scallop Chaise...
Bouclé, Upholstery
$6,800Sale Price / set|20% Off
McCobb Walnut and Brass Burnt Orange Sectional Sofa
By Directional, Paul McCobb
Located in Miami, FL
All original Paul McCobb walnut and brass two piece sectional sofa from the designer's coveted Directional collection. The rare Mid-Century Modern set features: a model 5006-L left arm sofa; a model 5004-R right arm loveseat; set-in arm detail; original burnt orange wool fabric; walnut legs; brass stretchers. 100% original condition. The perfect seating arrangement to accent any decor! The couch measures approximately 77.5 in (196.85 cm) W x 34.5 in (87.63 cm) D x 32.5 in (82.55 cm) H. The settee measures approximately 51.5 in (130.81 cm) W x 34.5 in (87.63 cm) D x 32.5 in (82.55 cm) H. The two pieces can also be used together to create one long sofa measuring 129.75 inches (329.56 cm). The dimensions listed under Item Details are if the two pieces are used as a sectional with a square corner table...
Brass
Paul Evans PE400 Faceted Dining Table in Walnut Burl & Chrome Plated Steel 1970s
By Paul Evans, Directional
Located in New York, NY
The Cityscape collection designed by Paul Evans was produced by Directional Furniture from 1970 until 1981. The collection drew inspiration from urban environments and architectural ...
Steel, Chrome
Paul McCobb for Directional Mid-Century Modern Sofa with Brass Cross Stretcher
By Paul McCobb, Directional
Located in St. Louis, MO
1950s Mid-Century Modern Paul McCobb for Directional sofa on tapered legs with round brass stretcher from front to back and side to side. Drop arm detail, older floral upholstery ne...
Upholstery, Wood
$7,912Sale Price|20% Off
Newly Upholstered Wingback Sofa 1307 by Paul McCobb for Directional, US, 1950s
By Paul McCobb, Directional
Located in Berlin, DE
Paul McCobb sofa model 1307 for Directional features a slight winged back resting on a maple frame that gives the sofa a floating look with loose cushions on seat and back. Newly reu...
Fabric, Upholstery, Wood, Maple
Paul McCobb Dining Chairs for Directional Set of Six
By Paul McCobb, Directional
Located in Chicago, IL
Paul McCobb Dining Chairs for Directional Set of Six, Four model-1080 Armless and Two model-1082 Arm Chairs, Solid Mahogany wood with Bow-Tie Backs, upholstered seats. Table and Cabi...
Mahogany
Mid Century Paul Evans Cityscape Wall Mirror & Console Table Shelf in Chrome
By Directional, Paul Evans
Located in Philadelphia, PA
An incredible design combination, a cityscape wall shelf and mirror designed by Paul Evans in the 1970's. The set features fine heavy construction with chrome clad patchwork design. ...
Chrome
Pair of Directional Post Modern Poufs Ottomans in Curly Camel Teddy Bear Fabric
By Directional
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Timelessly sexy pair of poufs ottomans by Directional professionally reupholstered in soft camel teddy bear fabric rated highly durable. Upholstered pouf rests atop a channeled upholstered...
Upholstery, Faux Fur
Vladimir Kagan Post Modern Marilyn Sofa in Ivory White Bouclé
By Vladimir Kagan, Directional
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Post modern Vladimir Kagan Marilyn Sofa by Directional for Vladimir Kagan in new ivory white bouclé upholstery. Whimsical and happy, Kagan's Marilyn line...
Bouclé, Upholstery
1970s Signed Paul Evans for Directional Cityscape Chrome Cube Side Table
By Directional, Paul Evans
Located in Farmington Hills, MI
We are very pleased to offer a striking example of Paul Evans’ iconic Cityscape collection for Directional, this chrome-plated steel cube table embodies the bold, architectural elega...
Chrome
Milo Baughman for Directional Mid Century Multi-Wood Dining Table with 2 Leaves
By Directional, Milo Baughman
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Milo Baughman for Directional Mid Century Multi-Wood Dining Table with 2 Leaves This table measures: 60 wide x 38 deep x 28.75 high, with a chair clearance of 25.75 inches; each lea...
Wood
Postmodern Vladimir Kagan Marilyn Chaise Lounge Newly Reupholstered
By Vladimir Kagan, Directional
Located in Chicago, IL
Vintage Postmodern Vladimir Kagan Marilyn Sculptural Chaise Lounge For Directional Newly Reupholstered in a Ivory Boucle The Vintage Postmodern Vladimir Kagan Marilyn Sculptural Ch...
Bouclé
$4,680Sale Price|20% Off
Magnificent Directional Biscuit Tufted Party Loveseat Sofa Modern
By Directional, Milo Baughman
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Magnificent Milo Baughman style Directional biscuit tufted party loveseat sofa. This sofa was re-upholstered about 15 years ago and would be best redone again-light wear to seat and ...
Upholstery
American Mid-Century Modern Armchair, Paul McCobb
By Paul McCobb, Directional
Located in Minneapolis, MN
Fabulous vintage armchair designed by Paul McCobb. Walnut legs and details. Re upholstery recommended. Please inquire about upholstery options....
Walnut