Milo Baughman

Born in Goodland, Kansas on October 7, 1923, Milo Baughman’s talent was recognised by his parents at an early age. (Image via Coming Soon Newyork)
BY S.Ag on AugAug SatSat, 2019201920192019

“Furniture that is too obviously designed is very interesting, but too often belongs only in museums”

 milo baughman iconic furniture designer modern classic
Milo Baughman: An icon that shaped modern design.

Born in Goodland, Kansas on October 7, 1923, Milo Baughman’s talent was recognised by his parents at an early age. At the age of 13, he designed his home on the request of his parents and created plans for the facade and the interiors of his house in Long Beach, California, which became their residence for 34 years. 

Milo Baughman chair design mid-century modern
Designed in 1965. This lounge chair by Milo Baughman is a modern classic.
Image : thayercoggin.com

After getting his education in design from the Art Center School of Los Angeles and the Chouinard Art Institute (now California institute of the arts), like all great pioneers, he began his studio at an early age. Milo Baughman Design Inc. was established by him when he was only 24! Milo Baughman believed that good design should be accessible to all. People should be able to afford stylish yet functional furniture without paying a bomb for it. Throughout his life he advocated the importance of good design, how impactful it is and how it can bring a positive change in our lives.

Milo Baughman chair design mid-century modern
Called "T-Back Chair" because of the back. This was designed in 1968 by Baughman.
Image : thayercoggin.com

Baughman’s chairs, sofas and tables are quintessentially American and embody the clean aesthetic, prevalent at that time. But, even now when I look at the furniture designed by him, I can’t help but wonder how elegant it will look in my living room! The simple forms of his furniture are unique and striking, the kind that compel you to look again. His distinct style became the definition of Californian Modern Furniture. 

Milo Baughman chair design mid-century modern
This lounge chair will never go out of style. It was designed in 1965 by Baughman.
Image : thayercoggin.com

Baughman collaborated with furniture manufacturer Thayer Coggin to create a vast range of designs that were the perfect mix of Coggin’s experience as a manufacturer and Baughman’s remarkable creativity. 
This joint effort resulted in an extraordinary collection made of wood, leather and metal. His contemporary classics such as lounge chairs, swivel chairs, scoop chairs, armchairs, modular sofas and recliners upgrade any space effortlessly, providing ample comfort at the same time! 

Milo Baughman chair design mid-century modern
Milo Baughman's EZ armless lounge chair was designed in 1969.
Image : thayercoggin.com

His designs, celebrated and used even today, are a part of the permanent collection at MOMA, New York and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

FAQs

  1. 1. Who is Milo Baughman?

    h baughmann miloMilo Baughman was an iconic American furniture designer born in Goodland, Kansas on October 7, 1923. He is known for shaping the Mid-Century Modern design movement with his sleek, functional, and stylish furniture.

  2. 2. When and where was Milo Baughman born?

    Milo Baughman was born on October 7, 1923, in Goodland, Kansas.

  3. 3. What was Milo Baughman’s first design project?

    At the age of 13, Milo Baughman designed the facade and interiors of his family's house in Long Beach, California, which became their residence for 34 years.

  4. 4. What schools did Milo Baughman attend?

    Baughman studied design at the Art Center School of Los Angeles and the Chouinard Art Institute (now known as the California Institute of the Arts).

  5. 5. When did Milo Baughman establish his own design studio?

    Milo Baughman founded Milo Baughman Design Inc. when he was just 24 years old.

  6. 6. What was Baughman’s design philosophy?

    Baughman believed that good design should be accessible to everyone. He wanted people to be able to afford stylish and functional furniture without having to pay exorbitant prices.

  7. 7. What is the style of Milo Baughman’s furniture?

    Baughman’s furniture is quintessentially American and embodies the clean, minimalist aesthetic of Mid-Century Modern design. His pieces are known for their simple forms, functionality, and elegance.

  8. 8. Which famous furniture manufacturer did Milo Baughman collaborate with?

    Milo Baughman collaborated with furniture manufacturer Thayer Coggin, resulting in a collection that combined Baughman’s creativity with Coggin’s manufacturing expertise.

  9. 9. What types of furniture did Baughman design?

    Baughman designed a wide range of furniture, including lounge chairs, swivel chairs, scoop chairs, armchairs, modular sofas, and recliners. His furniture was known for its comfort and style.

  10. 10. Where are Milo Baughman’s designs displayed?

    Some of Milo Baughman’s most iconic furniture pieces are part of the permanent collections at major museums such as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA).

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