Paul McCobb
Paul McCobb – Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Paul McCobb (1917–1969) is one of the most influential voices of American mid-century modern design. Celebrated for his refined proportions, honest materials, and everyday functionality, McCobb created furniture that feels as fresh now as it did in the 1950s and 1960s. His pieces—spanning the iconic Planner Group, sophisticated case goods, sculptural lounge seating, and elegant dining suites—are prized by collectors, interior designers, and homeowners seeking authentic mid-century furniture with timeless appeal.
What Defines Paul McCobb’s Style?
McCobb’s work balances clean lines with human scale. Expect slender legs, precise edges, and layouts that maximize storage without visual heaviness. Maple, walnut, and lacquered finishes appear often, with hardware details that are subtle and architectural rather than ornate. Unlike some contemporaries who leaned into exuberant curves, McCobb’s strength lies in restraint—elevating simple forms through proportion, material quality, and impeccable function.
Why Collectors Love McCobb
- Timeless minimalism: Pieces integrate seamlessly with modern, Scandinavian, or eclectic interiors.
- Usable investment: Dressers, cabinets, tables, and lounge chairs deliver daily function and long-term value.
- Historic significance: The Planner Group introduced high style to mass-market American homes—now a cornerstone of mid-century collections.
Signature Lines & Makers
The Planner Group is McCobb’s best-known line—streamlined case goods and tables with versatile configurations, often produced in maple with hand-rubbed finishes. He also designed sophisticated case pieces and seating through other manufacturers, and collaborated on lounge chairs that brought tailored comfort to living rooms and reading nooks. McCobb’s influence extended to dining—the balanced scale of his tables and chairs makes them easy to live with today.
Shop Paul McCobb at Vintage Vault Modern
Explore authentic examples from our current inventory. Each piece is vetted for quality and originality, with finishes and materials that showcase the best of mid-century craft:
- Mid Century Modern Paul McCobb Eight Drawer Dresser for Calvin
- Mid Century Modern Paul McCobb Planner Group Maple Coffee Table
- Mid Century Modern Paul McCobb Planner Group Modular Cabinet
- Mid Century Modern Paul McCobb for Directional Lounge Chairs
- Mid Century Modern Paul McCobb Table and Bowtie Chairs
- Mid Century Modern Paul McCobb Black Lacquer Three Drawer Dresser
How to Style Paul McCobb Pieces
- Case goods + seating: Pair a McCobb dresser or cabinet with sculptural lounge chairs for a refined living room vignette.
- Maple + texture: Balance light maple with wool rugs, linen upholstery, and warm lighting for softness.
- Lacquer + contrast: Use a black lacquer dresser against neutral walls for gallery-level impact; add brass accents sparingly.
- Dining harmony: A McCobb dining table with tapered-leg chairs keeps sightlines open in smaller dining rooms.
Materials & Care
- Maple & Walnut: Dust regularly; condition occasionally. Learn more about maple characteristics at The Wood Database: Hard Maple.
- Lacquer: Avoid abrasives; wipe with a soft, dry cloth. See Britannica: Lacquer.
- Upholstery: Vacuum seams on lounge chairs; professionally clean delicate fabrics as needed.
Design Legacy
McCobb helped define American modernism by demonstrating that thoughtfully designed furniture could be both accessible and collectible. His work continues to anchor interiors for design-forward homeowners and remains a staple in galleries and auctions. For buyers seeking longevity, versatility, and historical importance, Paul McCobb stands among the safest—and most stylish—mid-century investments.
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Pro tip: Start with one hero piece—like a McCobb dresser or modular cabinet—then build around it with lighting, textiles, and art. His balanced forms make layering effortless while keeping the room visually light.
