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Paul McCobb Furniture

American, 1917-1969

The single aesthetic attribute of vintage Paul McCobb furniture is that the designer completely forsook ornament — his pieces have no flourishes. And yet, because they are honest — McCobb’s chairs, desks and dining tables are made of solid wood, usually maple or birch, often paired with frames and legs of wrought iron; the cabinets are traditionally scaled; the seating pieces have historic antecedents such as the Windsor chair — his mid-century modern work has warmth and presence.

You could call the Massachusetts-born McCobb a man of parts. As a furniture designer, his work combined the attributes of many of his now better-known peers. 

Like the work of Bauhaus designers such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Marcel Breuer, McCobb's furniture had purity of form and line. Like the designs of Florence Knoll and George Nelson and his associates, McCobb’s work was efficient and purposeful. And even like George Nakashima, he was adept at interpreting traditional forms, in particular those of chairs, for the 20th century.

More than any other designer besides Russel Wright, with his ubiquitous ceramic tableware, McCobb was arguably responsible for the introduction of modern design into middle-class American households — if for no other reason than that he designed the 1952 set for the original Today show. 

McCobb, a repeat recipient of the Good Design Award from the Museum of Modern Art, also designed cohesive lines of furnishings, such as his best-known Planner Group, that gave homes an instant “look.” He designed for several companies, most notably Directional, which was home to McCobb’s Origami chair

In 1949, in partnership with New York furniture salesman B.G. Mesberg, McCobb set up the Directional Furniture Company, a​ brand known to vintage mid-century modern furniture collectors everywhere. Directional opened its doors after McCobb created the high-end Directional Modern line of sofas distributed by the New York-based Modernage Company. Directional also produced designs by other legends such as Paul Evans and Vladimir Kagan

As you can see from the offerings on 1stDibs, McCobb designs are the pin-striped suit, or the little black dress, of a decor: an essential.

Find vintage Paul McCobb credenzas, bookcases, nightstands and other furniture on 1stDibs.

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Creator: Paul McCobb
Dealer: Midcent LA
Mid Century Modern Walnut Side/End Table By Paul McCobb for Lane, c1960s
By Lane Furniture, Paul McCobb
Located in Chino Hills, CA
Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of mid-century modern design with this exquisite side table, a true gem designed by the iconic Paul McCobb for Lane Furniture's celebrated '...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul McCobb Furniture

Materials

Walnut

Mid Century Modern Walnut Desk by Paul McCobb, c1960s
By Planner Group, Paul McCobb
Located in Chino Hills, CA
Step back in time with this show-stopping vintage mid century walnut desk, artfully designed by the renowned Paul McCobb. This pi...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul McCobb Furniture

Materials

Brass

Pair of Mid Century Modern Delineator Nightstands by Paul McCobb for Lane, c1960
By Lane Furniture, Paul McCobb
Located in Chino Hills, CA
Delve into the world of mid-century elegance with this rare pair of vintage nightstands, hailing from the illustrious 'Delineator' series designed by the iconic Paul McCobb for Lane in the 1960s. These pieces showcase the unmatched craftsmanship, minimalist allure, and functional design that defined the era. These nightstands are an uncommon model, featuring a rich walnut frame that beautifully contrasts with the top's stunning rosewood grain. These materials, considered luxurious in the mid-century period, add a touch of timeless sophistication that will elevate any bedroom decor. Each nightstand measures approximately 24"W × 21"D × 24"H, perfect for bedside placement. Functionality meets style in the design of these pieces. Each nightstand features a single pull drawer, measuring 3.25"H, and two drawer doors that open to reveal a spacious interior compartment. This design provides ample storage space for your essentials while maintaining a sleek, uncluttered aesthetic. Both nightstands have been professionally refinished and are in excellent condition, ready to be a part of your home. Their clean lines and understated elegance are a testament to the design philosophy of Paul McCobb, a pioneering figure in mid-century modern design. McCobb's work is known for its simplicity, practicality, and timeless appeal, and these nightstands are no exception. Manufactured by Lane Furniture, a company revered for its high-quality production and design innovation, these nightstands are a testament to the brand's commitment to excellence. Lane's collaboration with McCobb in the 'Delineator' series resulted in pieces that are not only beautiful but also enduring, standing the test of time both in construction and style. These nightstands would seamlessly blend with a variety of interior styles, including mid-century modern, contemporary, and Scandinavian. They would also make a stunning contrast in a traditional or rustic setting, serving as a statement piece that bridges the past and the present. Don't miss this opportunity to own a piece of design history with this exquisite pair of Paul McCobb nightstands. Their timeless appeal and functional design will bring a touch of mid-century elegance to your home for years to come. Matching dresser and chest of drawers...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul McCobb Furniture

Materials

Chrome

Mid Century Modern Delineator Chest of Drawers by Paul McCobb for Lane, c1960s
By Lane Furniture, Paul McCobb
Located in Chino Hills, CA
Prepare yourself to indulge in the timeless elegance and sophistication of mid-century modern design with this rare model of the 'Delineator' series Chest of Drawers. Designed by the...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul McCobb Furniture

Materials

Chrome

Mid Century Modern Delineator Dresser by Paul McCobb for Lane, c1960s
By Lane Furniture, Paul McCobb
Located in Chino Hills, CA
Prepare to fall in love with a piece of history. This stunning and rare mid-century modern dresser is a part of the "Delineator" series, meticulously designed by renowned furniture d...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Paul McCobb Furniture

Materials

Chrome

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Paul Mccobb furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

Paul McCobb furniture 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 Paul McCobb furniture, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. We have 901 vintage editions of these items in-stock, while there is 16 modern edition to choose from as well. Many of the original furniture by Paul McCobb 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 furniture by Dunbar, George Nelson, and John Widdicomb. Prices for Paul McCobb furniture can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $195 and can go as high as $25,995, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $3,826.
Questions About Paul McCobb Furniture
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    You can sell Paul McCobb furniture in a number of ways. Options include selling directly to someone else by advertising on social media or in the newspaper or going to a vintage furniture shop. You can also work with an auction house or choose a reputable online platform. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Paul McCobb furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    The best way to identify Paul McCobb furniture is to look for the signature hallmarks of his style. He didn't sign or add a brand marker to his pieces. McCobb preferred clean, simple lines with no ornamentation. Slightly angled legs and boxy drawers and chair backs are indicative of his work. On 1stDibs, find a variety of expertly vetted Paul McCobb furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    To refinish Paul McCobb furniture, start by stripping away the old finish with a chemical stripper. Then, use a fine wire brush and steel wool to remove any lingering chemicals. Sand every surface and apply a wood conditioner. Finally, apply three to five coats of lacquer. Find a collection of Paul McCobb furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    In most cases, Paul McCobb used a natural lacquer wood finish. In doing so, he emphasized the natural color and grain of the hardwoods used to build his tables, desks, cabinets and other furniture. Shop a collection of Paul McCobb on 1stDibs.

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