You’ve probably heard Milo Baughman’s quote: “Furniture that is too obviously designed is very interesting, but too often belongs only in museums.” In contrast, Milo created pieces with simple, clean lines that brought inventive, modern furniture to the public at an accessible level. Inspired by Mies van der Rohe and Breuer who laid the foundation for Modernism, he has become one of the golden standards for Modern design. Today, we’re taking a look back into Milo Baughman’s legacy, and falling in love with his designs all over again.
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The Makings of a Master
Milo Ray Baughman, Jr. was born in Goodland, Kansas, but spent most of his life in sunny Long Beach, California. Noticing his natural eye for design, his parents put him in charge of designing their family home (inside and out) when he was only 13 years old. After high school graduation, he joined the Air Force during World War II, where he had, arguably, one of the coolest military assignments ever: designing officer’s clubs. From there, he went on to study product and architectural design at the Art Center School of Los Angeles and the Chouinard Art Institute (later known as the California Institute of the Arts), establishing a solid foundation for his design career.
In 1947, Milo Baughman established Milo Baughman Design Inc., where he began to work on commissions for some of the biggest furniture manufacturers, including Drexel and Murray Furniture. From 1951-1953, he also ran a custom design shop with his wife at the time, Olga Lee in Los Angeles. Olga created hand-printed fabrics, wallpaper, lamps, and accessories to accompany Milo’s furniture designs, while both offered their services as interior designers.
Milo Baughman at Thayer Coggin
It was through Milo Baughman’s 50-year partnership with Thayer Coggin, a North Carolina manufacturer, that he really made his mark in American residential furniture. Their relationship began with a handshake agreement in 1953, and grew to produce pieces that would define Modernist design. By the 1960s and 1970s, his collections were highly anticipated at the annual High Point Market, as everyone rushed to see what masterpieces he had produced for the year. Through his works, you can feel his philosophy: Good design is enduring design. Milo Baughman often used chrome, stainless steel, glass, leather, and wood, and infused the iconic mid-century style with the ease of his Californian upbringing.
951-103 Chair
A true classic, the 951-103 Chair is one of Milo Baughman’s famous unpretentious designs. Now a staple in Thayer Coggin’s collections, its unassuming brushed nickel frame is perfectly complemented by either luxurious leather or soft fabric cushions that make for an inviting lounge chair. This design paved the way for the 951-203 Loveseat, essentially an extended version of its predecessor.
1076 Sectional
Milo Baughman understood that not every home is made the same, and people needed pieces that could be adjusted to fit their rooms without breaking the bank. He created the 1076 Sectional with three basic units, a chair, an ottoman, and a corner chair, so they could be arranged however necessary. With a variety of fabric and leather upholstery, it really is the epitome of accessible customization.
956-103 Tub Chair
Another legendary lounger, the 956-103 Tub Chair is one of Milo Baughman’s barrel-shaped lounge chairs. Its giant, oversized shape with an easy glide swivel provides the perfect place to sink in and relax after a long day. Button tufting emphasizes just how plush this lounge chair really is. Take a seat, and you’ll probably never want to leave.
2000 Drum Table
You won’t find legs on these tables. Quite possibly the most minimalist round table, the 2000 Drum Table brings everything down to the most basic structure: a cylinder. It’s incredibly smooth and despite a metal finish, has a warm appeal. Seams are welded, ground, and polished by hand until you won’t be able to spot them. It’s available in three sizes, for use as a coffee table, side table, or even just a display pedestal.
Where You’ll Spot His Work Today
Nowadays, you’ll see original Milo Baughman pieces in the homes of the elite, as Baughman pieces are a popular choice among top designers, like Nate Berkus. Although we love a good vintage find, Thayer Coggin also continues to produce many of the most popular designs, from dining chairs to sofas. And, as it doesn’t seem like this trend is slowing anytime soon, new designers are pulling inspiration from some of Baughman’s O.G. works and putting their own twist. Despite what he said about furniture in museums, his work has found a place in the Whitney Museum of Art and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
