Skip to main content

Directional Cabinets

​​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.

to
2
Height
to
Width
to
Depth
to
11
11
8
11
9
2
2
4
2
9
7
5
3
2
8
7
11
11
11
162
81
80
72
67
Creator: Directional
Paul Evans Sculptural Art Metal Cabinet Model 'PE-40A', Signed & Dated 1974
Paul Evans Sculptural Art Metal Cabinet Model 'PE-40A', Signed & Dated 1974

Paul Evans Sculptural Art Metal Cabinet Model 'PE-40A', Signed & Dated 1974

By Directional, Paul Evans

Located in Los Angeles, CA

An exceptional and monumental cabinet, model PE-40A, designed by American sculptor and furniture master Paul Evans for Directional, signed and dated 1974. This important example repr...

Category

1970s American Brutalist Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Slate, Steel

Paul Evans Patchwork Copper Sideboard Cabinet with Slate Top and Mirror 1960's
Paul Evans Patchwork Copper Sideboard Cabinet with Slate Top and Mirror 1960's

Paul Evans Patchwork Copper Sideboard Cabinet with Slate Top and Mirror 1960's

By Directional, Paul Evans

Located in Troy, MI

Matched credenza and mirror by Paul Evans "Sculptured Metal" collection circa 1968 Model PE-38 two door cabinet on a recessed base Copper brass and pewter patchwork exterior with o...

Category

1960s American Brutalist Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Slate, Brass, Copper, Pewter, Steel

Paul McCobb Irwin Collection Brass and Leather Credenza by Calvin
Paul McCobb Irwin Collection Brass and Leather Credenza by Calvin

Paul McCobb Irwin Collection Brass and Leather Credenza by Calvin

By Directional, Paul McCobb, Calvin Furniture

Located in Miami, FL

All original Paul McCobb mahogany cabinet or sideboard from The Calvin Group (earlier Irwin Collection) by Calvin Furniture, which is part of the work the designer created for Directional (model 1066). The mid-century modern credenza features: three drawers with brass knobs; two sliding leather doors with brass pulls and brass edges; interior fitted with two shelves, each adjustable to four different positions; brass X stretchers; label. 100% original finish and condition. The perfect vintage piece to use as a bar cabinet, a media console or a server buffet. Part of a one owner collection of McCobb furniture exclusively presented by Select Modern; a truly rare time capsule find! There are more pieces from this collection available in our storefront. A copy of the original 1956 purchase receipt for all the pieces from this collection is available. Works well in many different decors, from eclectic modern...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Midcentury Paul Evans Brutalist Sideboard for Directional
Midcentury Paul Evans Brutalist Sideboard for Directional

Midcentury Paul Evans Brutalist Sideboard for Directional

By Directional, Paul Evans

Located in Brooklyn, NY

An iconic vintage modern design by Paul Evans with an elaborate chrome patchwork design. This stylish case piece boasts a spacious black interior hidden behind four cabinet doors. A ...

Category

1970s North American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Chrome

Paul McCobb for Directional Black Two Door Cabinet with Brass Leg Posts
Paul McCobb for Directional Black Two Door Cabinet with Brass Leg Posts

Paul McCobb for Directional Black Two Door Cabinet with Brass Leg Posts

By Directional, Paul McCobb

Located in Bainbridge, NY

Paul McCobb for Directional #7026 Black Two door Cabinet with Drawer. Featuring newly restored and re-enameled rectangular black enameled hinged two door swing door Cabinet, top draw...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Milo Baughman Designed Sideboard for Directional
Milo Baughman Designed Sideboard for Directional

Milo Baughman Designed Sideboard for Directional

By Directional, Milo Baughman

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Mid-century modern sideboard with bi-fold doors, matte black base, and matching black exposed hinges. Designed for Directional by Milo Baughman, and manufactured by Johnson Furniture...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Directional Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Signed Paul Evans Cityscape Bar Cart 'PE 200' Series for Directional
Signed Paul Evans Cityscape Bar Cart 'PE 200' Series for Directional

Signed Paul Evans Cityscape Bar Cart 'PE 200' Series for Directional

By Paul Evans, Directional

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Beautiful signed Mid-Century Modern bar cabinet by Paul Evans for Directional. A wonderful patchwork design with a flip top and two cabinet doors below. Sleek case piece that looks g...

Category

1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Chrome

Paul Evans Cityscape Console in Burl Wood and Chrome
Paul Evans Cityscape Console in Burl Wood and Chrome

Paul Evans Cityscape Console in Burl Wood and Chrome

By Paul Evans, Directional

Located in Dallas, TX

1975 Paul Evans Cityscape console in burl wood and chrome. Beautiful console featured in Paul Evans book.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Directional Cabinets

Materials

Chrome

Small Mid-Century Cabinet by Directional
Small Mid-Century Cabinet by Directional

Small Mid-Century Cabinet by Directional

By Directional

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This stylish end table cabinet features a truly innovative design, combining a vintage tortoise finish with brass trim and several unique storage options. Standard cabinet storage me...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Directional Cabinets

Materials

Lacquer

Hanging Two Drawer Cabinet by Milo Baughman for Directional
Hanging Two Drawer Cabinet by Milo Baughman for Directional

Hanging Two Drawer Cabinet by Milo Baughman for Directional

By Milo Baughman, Directional

Located in Oakland, CA

Hanging cabinet attributed to Milo Baughman for Directional furniture, Crafted out of Philippine Mahogany with a dark rosewood finish. The cabinet has two drawers with brass pulls an...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Related Items
Diminutive Mid Century Three Drawer Dresser att. to Baughman for Directional
Diminutive Mid Century Three Drawer Dresser att. to Baughman for Directional

Diminutive Mid Century Three Drawer Dresser att. to Baughman for Directional

By Milo Baughman, Directional

Located in New York, NY

Exceptional mid century dresser, design att. to Milo Baughman for the Directional Furniture Company, circa 1950/60's. The walnut chest features three drawers, each with a recessed p...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Directional Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Paul Evans Patchwork Credenza Metal Wood & Slate Custom Made Vintage c. 1960s
Paul Evans Patchwork Credenza Metal Wood & Slate Custom Made Vintage c. 1960s

Paul Evans Patchwork Credenza Metal Wood & Slate Custom Made Vintage c. 1960s

By Paul Evans

Located in Keego Harbor, MI

An original vintage 1960s patchwork credenza by Paul Evans. An example of Paul Evans’ iconic patchwork series, this monumental credenza showcases the sculptural craftsmanship and met...

Category

1960s American Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Stone, Bronze, Copper, Pewter

Modernist Patchwork Burl Credenza By Paul Evans For Directional
Modernist Patchwork Burl Credenza By Paul Evans For Directional

Modernist Patchwork Burl Credenza By Paul Evans For Directional

$9,900Sale Price|44% Off

H 30 in W 84 in D 22 in

Modernist Patchwork Burl Credenza By Paul Evans For Directional

By Paul Evans

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Stunning, modernist, patchwork burl, credenza by Paul Evans for Directional features a high sheen laminate finish with 48 inch wide, gunmetal steel center doors and two 16 inch wide ...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Directional Cabinets

Materials

Steel

Milo Baughman Style Lacquer and Rosewood Credenza Chrome Accents Mid-Century
Milo Baughman Style Lacquer and Rosewood Credenza Chrome Accents Mid-Century

Milo Baughman Style Lacquer and Rosewood Credenza Chrome Accents Mid-Century

By Milo Baughman

Located in Philadelphia, PA

This credenza newly lacquered in white and having wonderfully grained three rosewood drawers and two doors that open to reveal one shelf is finished with chrome trim and stylish chro...

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Directional Cabinets

Materials

Rosewood

Mid Century Six Drawer Dresser att. to Baughman for Directional
Mid Century Six Drawer Dresser att. to Baughman for Directional

Mid Century Six Drawer Dresser att. to Baughman for Directional

By Milo Baughman, Directional

Located in New York, NY

Exceptional mid century six drawer dresser, design attributed to Milo Baughman, for Directional. This chic, sophisticated chest features a vibrant walnut case, with ebonized inset ha...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Directional Cabinets

Materials

Wood

Paul Evans Attributed Cityscape Patchwork Burlwood Credenza
Paul Evans Attributed Cityscape Patchwork Burlwood Credenza

Paul Evans Attributed Cityscape Patchwork Burlwood Credenza

By Paul Evans, Directional, Milo Baughman

Located in Houston, TX

Paul Evans Attributed Cityscape patchwork burlwood credenza. This stunning long mid-century Paul Evans for Directional attributed credenza or chest ...

Category

1960s North American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Wood

Paul Evans Flip Top Cityscape Bar Cabinet
Paul Evans Flip Top Cityscape Bar Cabinet

Paul Evans Flip Top Cityscape Bar Cabinet

$12,000Sale Price|20% Off

H 35.5 in W 36 in D 18 in

Paul Evans Flip Top Cityscape Bar Cabinet

By Paul Evans

Located in Chino Hills, CA

Step back in time with this authentic, vintage Paul Evans Cityscape bar cabinet from the 1970s. This striking piece combines the distinct aesthetic of Paul Evans with the practicalit...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Directional Cabinets

Materials

Burl

Mid Century Sideboard Credenza by Milo Baughman for Directional. Circa 1960s
Mid Century Sideboard Credenza by Milo Baughman for Directional. Circa 1960s

Mid Century Sideboard Credenza by Milo Baughman for Directional. Circa 1960s

By Milo Baughman, Directional

Located in Miami, FL

Mid Century Sideboard Credenza by Milo Baughman for Directional. Circa 1960s Features a sleek Mid Century Modern Design with a beautiful walnut woodgrain, two trifold doors with flat...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Paul Evans Mid Century Deep Relief Cabinet Credenza
Paul Evans Mid Century Deep Relief Cabinet Credenza

Paul Evans Mid Century Deep Relief Cabinet Credenza

$129,995

H 32 in W 96.75 in D 20.5 in

Paul Evans Mid Century Deep Relief Cabinet Credenza

By Paul Evans

Located in Franklin Park, IL

Paul Evans Mid Century Deep Relief Cabinet Credenza This credenza measures: 96.75 wide x 20.5 deep x 32 inches high All pieces of furniture can be had in what we call restored vint...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Directional Cabinets

Materials

Wood

Vintage Modern Rosewood & Brass Plate Wardrobe Milo Baughman for Thayer Coggin
Vintage Modern Rosewood & Brass Plate Wardrobe Milo Baughman for Thayer Coggin

Vintage Modern Rosewood & Brass Plate Wardrobe Milo Baughman for Thayer Coggin

By Thayer Coggin, Milo Baughman

Located in Topeka, KS

Phenomenal vintage modern rosewood & brass plate wardrobe or chifforobe by Milo Baughman for Thayer Coggin. Comprised of gorgeous rosewood veneer and brass plated steel bands. Beauti...

Category

1970s American Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Steel, Brass

Previously Available Items
1969 Paul Evans Floating Cabinet for Directional "Goop" Resin and Slate
1969 Paul Evans Floating Cabinet for Directional "Goop" Resin and Slate

1969 Paul Evans Floating Cabinet for Directional "Goop" Resin and Slate

By Paul Evans, Directional

Located in Virginia Beach, VA

Rare Paul Evans for Directional floating credenza cabinet, dated 1969. Finished on all sides in a heavily textured and painted resin, known affectionately as the Goop finish. This ca...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Slate

Paul Evans 'PE-19' Deep Relief Floating Wall Cabinet with Slate Top, 1964
Paul Evans 'PE-19' Deep Relief Floating Wall Cabinet with Slate Top, 1964

Paul Evans 'PE-19' Deep Relief Floating Wall Cabinet with Slate Top, 1964

By Paul Evans, Directional

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Stunning 'PE-19' Deep Relief floating wall cabinet by Paul Evans for Directional, produced in 1964, signed and dated 'PE 64'. This incredible collectors piece is fabricated from patinated segments of enameled steel which have been welded with applied textures and patterns with a slate top and two cabinet doors which open to reveal a stained red wood interior with adjustable shelf. The fusion of these exterior materials formulates an exemplary piece which would be a welcome addition to any design connoisseurs collection. We also carry other Paul Evans designs, including Cityscape, Patchwork Copper and Sculpted Metal Collections. Contact us for more information or see our other listings for more details. This Paul Evans PE19...

Category

1960s American Brutalist Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Slate, Steel

Paul McCobb Irwin Collection Mahogany and Brass Credenza by Calvin
Paul McCobb Irwin Collection Mahogany and Brass Credenza by Calvin

Paul McCobb Irwin Collection Mahogany and Brass Credenza by Calvin

By Paul McCobb, Calvin Furniture, Directional

Located in Miami, FL

All original Paul McCobb mahogany and brass cabinet model C8506 with breakfront top model C8006, from the Irwin Collection by Calvin Furniture, which is part of the work the designer created for Directional. The two piece mid-century modern credenza with hutch features: a bottom sideboard (which can be used as a stand alone case piece) with five drawers; brass knobs; a folding door opening to an interior fitted with one shelf; brass base and stretchers; and a top etagere with four drawers with brass pulls; two glass shelves; brass dividers; two cabinet doors opening to an interior with a shelf; label. 100% original finish and condition. The perfect vintage piece to used as a bar cabinet, bookcase or as a server buffet. Part of a one owner collection of McCobb furniture exclusively presented by Select Modern; a truly rare time capsule! There are more pieces from this collection available in our storefront. A copy of the original 1956 purchase receipt for all the pieces from this collection is available. Works well in many different decors, from eclectic modern to more elegant or traditional ones. Sideboard: 71.25 in (180.98 cm) W x 19.13 in (48.6 cm) D x 34.07 in (86.54 com) H Hutch: 71.25" (180.98 cm) W x 14 in (35.56 cm) D x 49 in (124.46 cm) H Literature: Fifties Furniture...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Milo Baughman for Directional Walnut Triple Bookcase on Hairpin Legs, 1960s
Milo Baughman for Directional Walnut Triple Bookcase on Hairpin Legs, 1960s

Milo Baughman for Directional Walnut Triple Bookcase on Hairpin Legs, 1960s

By Directional, Milo Baughman

Located in South Bend, IN

A sleek and stylish Mid-Century Modern display cabinet, bar cabinet, or bookcase By Milo Baughman for Directional USA, 1960s Walnut, with ebonized accents and steel hairpin ...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Steel

Milo Baughman for Directional Walnut and Ebonized Bookcase on Hairpin Legs
Milo Baughman for Directional Walnut and Ebonized Bookcase on Hairpin Legs

Milo Baughman for Directional Walnut and Ebonized Bookcase on Hairpin Legs

By Directional, Milo Baughman

Located in South Bend, IN

A sleek and stylish Mid-Century Modern display cabinet, bar cabinet, or bookcase By Milo Baughman for Directional USA, 1960s Walnut, with ebonized accents and steel hairpin legs. ...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Steel

Milo Baughman for Directional Credenza
Milo Baughman for Directional Credenza

Milo Baughman for Directional Credenza

Sold

H 21.5 in W 60 in D 18.25 in

Milo Baughman for Directional Credenza

By Directional, Milo Baughman

Located in Culver City, CA

A wonderful cabinet / credenza designed by Milo Baughman for Directional Furniture. This low walnut credenza has bifold doors and sits on an eboniz...

Category

1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Vintage Patchwork Fliptop Bar Cabinet by Paul Evans for Directional
Vintage Patchwork Fliptop Bar Cabinet by Paul Evans for Directional

Vintage Patchwork Fliptop Bar Cabinet by Paul Evans for Directional

By Paul Evans, Directional

Located in North Hollywood, CA

Stunning vintage patchwork fliptop bar cabinet designed by iconic designer Paul Evans for Directional in the United States, circa 1970s. This elegant piece looks more like a graceful sculpture due to its Minimalist design and superior metal craftsmanship. The cabinet has been crafted by hand and features a rectangular structure inlaid with patinated bronze, copper, brass, and pewter pieces, which have been delicately placed and arranged in a mosaic-like style. On the front face, it has two thick doors...

Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Brass, Bronze, Copper, Pewter

Paul McCobb for Directional Black Lacquer and Brass Sideboard or Bar Cabinet
Paul McCobb for Directional Black Lacquer and Brass Sideboard or Bar Cabinet

Paul McCobb for Directional Black Lacquer and Brass Sideboard or Bar Cabinet

By Paul McCobb, Calvin Furniture, Directional

Located in South Bend, IN

A rare and exceptional Mid-Century Modern sideboard server or bar cabinet By Paul McCobb for Directional and produced by Calvin Furniture USA, 1950s Black lacquered mahogany...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Paul Evans Sculpted Bronze and Resin Wall Mounted Credenza, Signed and Dated '71
Paul Evans Sculpted Bronze and Resin Wall Mounted Credenza, Signed and Dated '71

Paul Evans Sculpted Bronze and Resin Wall Mounted Credenza, Signed and Dated '71

By Directional, Paul Evans

Located in Culver City, CA

One of the most recognizable and important names in the American studio craft movement of the 1960's and 70's, Paul Evans was a groundbreaking pioneer in brutalism. Collaborating as ...

Category

1970s American Brutalist Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Bronze

Milo Baughman Walnut Armoire for Directional
Milo Baughman Walnut Armoire for Directional

Milo Baughman Walnut Armoire for Directional

Sold

H 74 in W 39.75 in D 20 in

Milo Baughman Walnut Armoire for Directional

By Milo Baughman, Directional

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Walnut and burl wood armoire by Milo Baughman for Directional, c.1960s, USA, features eight drawers down the middle of the interior of the cabinet, three upper shelves, two with divi...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Milo Baughman Expandable Table, c.1960
Milo Baughman Expandable Table, c.1960

Milo Baughman Expandable Table, c.1960

Sold

H 29.5 in W 80 in D 38.5 in

Milo Baughman Expandable Table, c.1960

By Milo Baughman, Directional

Located in San Francisco, CA

About An original Milo Baughman Parsons dining table by Directional Furniture with a striped veneer top of Rosewood, Teak and Walnut o...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Directional Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Milo Baughman for Directional Miniature Jewelry Chest
Milo Baughman for Directional Miniature Jewelry Chest

Milo Baughman for Directional Miniature Jewelry Chest

By Directional, Milo Baughman

Located in San Diego, CA

Milo Baughman for Directional miniature jewelry chest or silver cabinet. Original chocolate colored finish with brass pulls. Retains original paper label on the back and metal label ...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Directional Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Directional cabinets for sale on 1stDibs.

Directional cabinets are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of Directional cabinets, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original cabinets by Directional were created in the mid-century modern style in north america during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider cabinets by Renzo Rutili, John Stuart, and Knoll. Prices for Directional cabinets can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,800 and can go as high as $38,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $7,000.
Questions About Directional Cabinets
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    While a pear-shaped ring can be worn either way, most commonly it is worn with the tip of the diamond facing upwards to look like a falling teardrop when the hand is raised. This also helps create the impression of longer fingers.