Milo Baughmann

MILO BAUGHMAN (United States, 1923- 2003).
Coffee table, c.1970.
Elm root wood and stained glass top.
Exhibits some veneer losses and use marks.
Measurements: 34.5 x 100 x 65 cm.
Milo Ray Baughman was a leading designer of modern furniture. Throughout his career, which began in the mid-1940s and lasted until his death, he worked for numerous furniture companies, including Mode Furniture, Glenn of California, Drexel and others. He is best known, however, for his long collaboration with Thayer Coggin Inc. that began in 1953 and continued for fifty years.
From a young age he showed talent in design: at age 13 he designed the interior and exterior of his family's home. After serving four years in the Air Force during World War II, he studied product design and architecture at the Art Center School in Los Angeles and the Chouinard Art Institute.
He began his professional career as an interior and custom furniture designer at Frank Brothers, where he met Georgia Christensen, founder of Furniture Forum. In 1947 he founded his own firm, "Milo Baughman Design Inc.", undertaking commissions for companies such as Glenn of California and Pacific Iron. His "California Modern" collection (1950) was notable for its use of walnut, birch and aluminum. He later worked for major manufacturers such as Drexel and Murray Furniture, the latter with a collection bearing his name.
Between 1951 and 1953 he had his own studio with his then wife, Olga Lee, who designed textiles, lamps and accessories to complement his furniture. Their Los Angeles showroom offered comprehensive interior design services.
The partnership with Thayer Coggin, begun in 1953, marked a milestone in his career. Known for presenting new collections annually at the High Point Market, some of his most iconic designs date from the 1960s and 1970s, such as the "951-103", "989-103" chairs, the "820-400" chaise and the "955-304" sofa.
His works were exhibited in museums and exhibitions throughout the United States, including the Whitney Museum in New York, the Southeastern Center for Contemporary Art and the North Carolina Museum of Art. In 1987, he was inducted into the Furniture Design Hall of Fame.