Paul McCobb is best known as a mid-20th-century American designer and furniture designer. He is famous for his clean and functional designs that epitomize the mid-century modern style. Some of his most collectible creations include:
Planner Group Furniture: This series of modular and versatile furniture, produced by Winchendon Furniture Company, is one of McCobb's most iconic works.
Connoisseur Collection: Known for its high-quality craftsmanship and elegant designs, this collection includes items like dining tables, chairs, and cabinets.
Symmetric Group: Characterized by geometric patterns and clean lines, the Symmetric Group features tables, cabinets, and other pieces.
Irwin Collection: McCobb's Irwin Collection includes a range of sophisticated case goods and seating.
Pavilion Collection: This collection features a series of sofas, chairs, and tables designed to be both stylish and functional.
These are just a few examples of Paul McCobb's highly sought-after designs, and they continue to be popular among collectors and enthusiasts of mid-century modern furniture.
Paul McCobb biography:
Paul McCobb was born on June 5, 1917, in Medford, Massachusetts, USA.
McCobb's formal education in design and architecture is not extensively documented, but he was largely self-taught.
He began his career as a designer in the 1940s and quickly gained recognition for his innovative and functional furniture designs.
He was largely influenced by the modernist design principles of the mid-20th century, which emphasized simplicity, functionality, and clean lines.
Throughout his career, McCobb designed furniture for various manufacturers and collaborated with companies like Winchendon Furniture and Directional.
His work became widely popular and contributed significantly to the mid-century modern design movement. Paul McCobb's legacy in the world of design and furniture continues to be celebrated for his timeless and iconic creations.
Paul McCobb's wife was Molly McCobb. They got married in 1948.
McCobb's approach to design can be summarized in a few key aspects.
Design Principles:
McCobb's design principles were rooted in the mid-century modern movement, which emphasized simplicity, functionality, and a focus on clean lines and geometric forms.
Drop leaf Table
His creations embodied these principles through the use of minimal ornamentation and a strong emphasis on the practicality and usability of his furniture.
Simplicity: McCobb believed in the beauty of simplicity. His designs often featured unadorned surfaces and straightforward, uncomplicated forms. He believed that good design should be accessible and uncomplicated.
Functionality: Practicality was at the core of McCobb's designs. He wanted his furniture to serve a purpose, and this functionality was often achieved through modular or versatile elements in his pieces.
His Planner Group series, for example, was all about adaptable and customizable furniture.
Bowtie Chair
Geometric Forms: McCobb's work often featured clean and precise geometric shapes. Rectangles, squares, and straight lines were prevalent in his designs, contributing to a sense of order and balance in his pieces.
Design Process:
McCobb's design process was meticulous and detail-oriented. He paid close attention to materials, proportions, and manufacturing techniques.
He often worked with fine wood, such as maple and walnut, and paid particular attention to the grain and finish of the wood.
His furniture pieces were crafted to be both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.
Collaboration:
McCobb collaborated with various manufacturers, such as Winchendon Furniture Company and Directional, to bring his designs to life. This collaborative approach allowed him to bring his ideas to a wider audience and ensure the quality and precision of production.
Modularity: One of McCobb's design hallmarks was modularity. He believed that furniture should be adaptable to various spaces and needs. This idea is best exemplified in his Planner Group, where components like shelves and cabinets could be configured in different ways.
Philosophy:
McCobb's design philosophy was centered on the idea of making good design accessible to the masses.
He believed that well-designed, functional, and aesthetically pleasing furniture should be available to a wide range of people, not just a privileged few.
This philosophy aligns with the democratic design principles of the mid-century modern movement, which aimed to make good design part of everyday life.
Paul McCobb's design principles, meticulous design process, and philosophy emphasized simplicity, functionality, and accessibility. His work, characterized by clean lines and geometric forms, has left an enduring mark on the world of mid-century modern design and continues to be celebrated for its timeless appeal and practicality.
Paul McCobb's work was highly influential in the field of mid-century modern design, but he did not receive any major design awards or recognitions during his lifetime. However, his designs and contributions to the mid-century modern movement have been celebrated posthumously, with his work recognized for its lasting impact on the world of design.
Description, history, dimensions, materials used, price,replica, collectivity of these following Paul McCobb items;
Bowtie Chair:
Description: The Bowtie Chair, also known as the Planner Group Chair, is an iconic design by Paul McCobb. It features a unique backrest in the shape of a bowtie, with simple tapered legs and a comfortable seat. The design is characterized by its sleek and modern look.
History: This chair was part of McCobb's Planner Group, which was produced by Winchendon Furniture Company in the 1950s. It is a classic representation of mid-century modern design.
Dimensions: Typically, these chairs measure approximately 30 inches in height, 18 inches in width, and 19 inches in depth.
Materials: The frame of the Bowtie Chair is often crafted from solid wood, while the seat may be upholstered or made from plywood.
Price: The price for an original vintage Bowtie Chair can vary significantly based on factors like condition and rarity, but they can be quite valuable to collectors.
Replicas: Due to the popularity of this design, there are various replica versions available in the market.
Drop Leaf Table:
Description: Paul McCobb's drop-leaf tables are known for their versatile and space-saving design. They typically have hinged leaves that can be raised or lowered to adjust the table's size.
History: These tables were part of McCobb's Planner Group and produced by Winchendon Furniture Company.
Dimensions: The dimensions can vary, but they often measure around 30 inches in height, 36 inches in width, and 36 inches in depth when fully opened.
Materials: McCobb's drop-leaf tables are often made from solid wood, frequently in a maple or walnut finish.
Price: The price of vintage drop-leaf tables by Paul McCobb depends on factors like condition and rarity, but they are generally sought after by collectors.
Replicas: There are replicas and reissues of McCobb's drop-leaf tables available for those seeking a more affordable option.
Jackson China:
Description: The Jackson China, part of the Irwin Collection, is a line of dinnerware and serveware designed by Paul McCobb. It features elegant and minimalist designs, typically in white.
History: McCobb's Jackson China was manufactured by Jackson China Co. in the 1950s.
Materials: It is typically made from ceramic or porcelain.
Price: The price of vintage Jackson China items can vary, with rare and pristine pieces being more valuable to collectors.
Origami Chair:
Description: The Origami Chair is a modern and geometric design by Paul McCobb. It features a unique folded-paper-like appearance, which gives it its name.
History: The Origami Chair was part of McCobb's Planner Group and produced by Winchendon Furniture Company.
Dimensions: These chairs vary in size, but they often measure around 30 inches in height, 20 inches in width, and 20 inches in depth.
Materials: They are typically made from wood with an upholstered seat.
Price: Original vintage Origami Chairs can be valuable to collectors, with prices varying based on factors like condition and rarity.
Replicas: As with other McCobb designs, there are replica versions of the Origami Chair available.
Collectivity:
Paul McCobb's designs are highly collectible among mid-century modern enthusiasts and vintage furniture collectors. His work is renowned for its timeless appeal, quality craftsmanship, and contributions to the mid-century modern design movement. Genuine vintage pieces, if well-preserved, are often considered valuable collectibles.
Record Cabinet:
Description: Paul McCobb's record cabinets were designed to store and organize vinyl records, reflecting his commitment to functionality and aesthetics. These cabinets typically feature clean lines and minimalistic designs.
History: McCobb's record cabinets were part of the Planner Group and produced by Winchendon Furniture Company.
Dimensions: The dimensions of record cabinets can vary, but they are generally designed to accommodate LP records and audio equipment.
Materials: These cabinets were often constructed from wood, with various finishes available, such as walnut or maple.
Price: The price of vintage Paul McCobb record cabinets varies depending on factors like condition, rarity, and the specific model.
Planner Group Desk:
Description: The Planner Group Desk is a classic example of Paul McCobb's mid-century modern design, featuring a simple and functional workspace with clean lines and often incorporating storage elements.
History: Part of the Planner Group, these desks were produced by Winchendon Furniture Company in the 1950s.
Dimensions: Planner Group desks come in various sizes, but they are typically designed to provide an efficient and stylish workspace.
Materials: These desks were crafted from wood, often in walnut or maple, and sometimes featured metal accents.
Price: The price of vintage Planner Group desks varies depending on factors such as condition, size, and rarity.
Brass Coffee Table:
Description: McCobb's brass coffee tables are known for their elegant, minimalist designs, often incorporating geometric shapes and clean lines.
History: These coffee tables were part of McCobb's designs in the mid-century modern era.
Dimensions: The dimensions of brass coffee tables can vary, but they typically come in various shapes and sizes to suit different spaces.
Materials: The base of these coffee tables is often made of brass, and the tabletop may be glass or other materials.
Price: Vintage brass coffee tables by Paul McCobb can range in price based on factors like condition and design intricacy.
Bedside Tables:
Description: McCobb's bedside tables feature the signature mid-century modern design elements of simplicity and functionality, often with drawers or storage compartments for bedside essentials.
History: These tables were part of various McCobb collections and produced by different manufacturers.
Dimensions: The dimensions of bedside tables can vary, but they are generally designed to be proportionate to bedside use.
Materials: McCobb's bedside tables are typically constructed from wood, sometimes with metal or brass details.
Price: The price of vintage bedside tables by Paul McCobb varies based on factors like condition, size, and the specific design.
Collectors and enthusiasts of mid-century modern furniture often seek out these Paul McCobb pieces, appreciating their timeless design, quality craftsmanship, and contributions to the mid-century modern movement. Prices can vary significantly depending on the rarity and condition of the items.
Interesting Facts about Paul McCobb:
Self-Taught Designer: Paul McCobb was primarily a self-taught designer. He did not have formal training in design or architecture but was able to achieve remarkable success through his innate talent and dedication.
Democratizing Design: McCobb was a proponent of "democratic design." He believed that well-designed, functional, and stylish furniture should be accessible to a wide range of people, not just the elite.
Versatile Designer: McCobb's design portfolio extended beyond furniture to include products like ceramics, flatware, glassware, and textiles. His ability to work in various design domains showcased his versatility.
Contributions to Mid-Century Modernism:
He made significant contributions to the mid-century modern design movement. His work from the 1950s and 1960s is particularly emblematic of this era, known for clean lines and geometric forms.
Planner Group: McCobb's Planner Group, produced by Winchendon Furniture Company, was a game-changer in the industry. It offered modular and customizable furniture, making it accessible and adaptable to a wide range of living spaces.
Paul McCobb's notable collaborations began in the 1950s:
Fritz Hansen: McCobb collaborated with Danish design company Fritz Hansen, known for its modernist furniture. His collaboration with Fritz Hansen resulted in the Planner Group, including various chairs, tables, and storage units.
Calvin Furniture: In the mid-1950s, McCobb began working with Calvin Furniture, a prominent American furniture manufacturer. This collaboration led to the development of stylish and functional designs, including desks and seating.
Lane Furniture: McCobb worked with Lane Furniture, a renowned American manufacturer, to create a line of furniture in the 1960s, known for its quality and modern design.
Winchendon Furniture Company: Paul McCobb's partnership with Winchendon Furniture Company is one of his most famous collaborations. The Planner Group, which he designed for Winchendon, became an iconic representation of mid-century modern design.
These collaborations were instrumental in bringing McCobb's designs to a wider audience and contributed to the popularity of mid-century modern furniture. His work with these manufacturers helped establish his legacy as a significant figure in mid-century design history.
Identifying Authentic Paul McCobb Furniture:
Signature or Label: Look for a signature or label. McCobb's authentic pieces often have a label or signature, indicating the manufacturer. These labels may include phrases like "Planner Group by Paul McCobb" or the manufacturer's name, such as "Winchendon Furniture Company."
Design Characteristics: Familiarize yourself with the design characteristics of McCobb's work. His furniture is known for clean lines, geometric shapes, and simplicity. If a piece displays these features, it's more likely to be genuine.
Materials: McCobb commonly used high-quality materials such as solid wood, often in walnut or maple, as well as metal accents. Inspect the materials and craftsmanship for signs of quality.
Documentation: If possible, seek out documentation, such as catalogs or books, that show McCobb's designs. Compare the item in question to the documented designs to confirm authenticity.
Provenance: Knowing the history and origin of the piece can also help establish authenticity. If the item has a well-documented history or comes from a reputable source, it's more likely to be authentic.
Restoring and Refinishing Paul McCobb Furniture:
Restoring and refinishing Paul McCobb furniture should be done with care to preserve its authenticity and value. Here are steps to consider:
Assessment: First, assess the condition of the furniture. Identify any damage, such as scratches, dents, or loose joints. Take note of what needs restoration.
Cleaning: Begin with a gentle cleaning to remove dust and dirt. Use a mild wood cleaner suitable for the type of finish on the furniture. Avoid abrasive materials that could damage the surface.
Repairs: Address any structural issues or damage. Repair loose joints, replace missing hardware, and fix any broken parts. It's important to use compatible materials and techniques.
Refinishing: If the finish is damaged or you want to refresh the look, consider refinishing. Consult with a professional who specializes in mid-century modern furniture. They can match the original finish and preserve the item's value.
Reupholstering: If the piece has upholstery, consider reupholstering. Choose fabrics that are true to the era or replicate the original look to maintain authenticity.
Hardware: If hardware is tarnished or missing, try to find matching hardware or have replicas made to ensure the furniture retains its original look.
Professional Assistance: For complex restorations or valuable pieces, it's advisable to seek the help of professional furniture restorers who specialize in mid-century modern design.
Preserve Documentation: If your piece had any original labels or markings, make sure they are preserved during the restoration process. If labels are damaged, consider consulting a professional in label restoration.
Remember that while restoration can bring new life to a piece, it should be done with respect for the original design and materials to maintain the authenticity and value of Paul McCobb's furniture.
Paul McCobb's contribution to the mid-century modern movement is immeasurable, and his legacy endures as a testament to his profound impact on the world of design.
McCobb's influence extended far beyond his lifetime and reached the design world in general, leaving an indelible mark on the mid-century modern movement.
Greatest Contribution:
Paul McCobb's greatest contribution to the mid-century modern movement lies in his ability to infuse simplicity, functionality, and modern aesthetics into his furniture designs.
His creations were a departure from the overly ornate and heavy furniture of the past, offering a refreshing and accessible alternative.
The Planner Group, in particular, stands as one of his significant contributions, providing modular and adaptable furniture for a wide audience.
McCobb's ability to bridge the gap between practicality and elegance was a hallmark of his work.
Impact on Mid-Century Modern Movement:
McCobb's impact on the mid-century modern movement is profound. His designs embodied the essence of the era, characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and a focus on comfort and usability.
The Planner Group, with its modular components, set a new standard for versatile and stylish furniture, making it a highly sought-after collection among mid-century enthusiasts.
McCobb's work inspired countless other designers, and his contributions helped define the aesthetic of the mid-20th century.
Influence:
Paul McCobb's influence extended well beyond his furniture designs. He left an indelible mark on interior design, home furnishings, and the broader world of design.
His ideas on "democratic design" — the belief that well-designed, functional items should be accessible to everyone — have resonated throughout the design world.
This philosophy influenced not only other furniture designers but also designers of various consumer products and household items.
