A Guide to the Iconic Milo Baughman Chairs and Stools of Mid-Century Modern Style

The Thayer Coggin Lounge Chair and Ottoman

One of Baughman's most famous designs is the Thayer Coggin lounge chair and ottoman set. First designed in the 1960s for the Thayer Coggin furniture company, this set features Baughman's trademark simple and elegant lines.

The lounge chair has a molded plywood seat and back for comfort. The wood frame features subtle curves and a gently reclined backrest. Meanwhile, the ottoman has four splayed, tapered wood legs. Both pieces were originally upholstered in leather or fabric.

This lounge chair encapsulates Baughman's functional and minimalist aesthetic. It provides a relaxing place to lounge and read a book, while making a stylish statement in any mid-century interior. Given Baughman's popularity, vintage examples can sell for thousands.

Milo Baughman for Thayer Coggin Side Chairs

In addition to lounge chairs, Milo Baughman designed several side chair models for Thayer Coggin. Many of these examples feature his signature combination of wood frames with upholstered seats and backs.

Notable designs include his scoop side chair, with its curved and moulded plywood seat and tapered back legs. He also created cantilever models like the 53 Chair, which has an elevated floating seat and angular wood supports. The sculpted plywood Chiavari chair is another sought-after Baughman design for Thayer Coggin.

These chairs represent the woodworking craftsmanship and attention to detail behind Baughman's simple forms. Their timeless silhouettes and mix of materials work well in all interior settings. They can make great additions around a dining table or as accent seating.

Milo Baughman for Thayer Coggin Stools

Baughman translated his chair designs into matching bar stools for the home. Many feature similar wooden frames with upholstered, padded seats. The overall forms are simplified into fluid, geometric shapes.

For example, the curved scoop stool has a rounded seat atop a tapered central column and four splayed legs. Baughman's cantilevered stools have suspended seats hovering above angular metal legs. He applied his less-is-more approach in other designs like the elegant swivel stool with a gently curved backrest.

These vintage Baughman stools are ideal for bar areas or additional seating at kitchen islands. Their mid-century modern style adds visual interest to home bars and dining spaces alike.

Milo Baughman for His Own Company

In addition to his Thayer Coggin collections, Milo Baughman designed signature pieces for his own eponymous company, founded in 1953. Many of these follow his characteristic mix of materials and simple, elegant forms.

Notable Baughman Furniture Company creations include the curved plywood 79 Chair with splayed wire base. The gentle cocoon-likecurves and metallic base epitomize mid-century appeal. Baughman also designed innovative recliners like the 7226 Lounge Chair, which features a chrome base and attached footrest.

Other famous designs include the arched chrome and wood 54 Chair, the angular leather 140 Chair, and the soft cylindrical shapes of the 23 Chair. These and other designs for his company display Baughman's mastery over materials and his creative spatial designs.

Where to Find Milo Baughman Chairs and Stools

There are several places to find vintage Milo Baughman chairs and stools to buy:

• Vintage furniture stores and dealers
• Online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy
• Auction houses and estate sales
• Classified ads

When evaluating potential pieces, look for the Milo Baughman label underneath the chair or stool. Check the condition of the upholstery and wood, which may need minor repairs or reupholstering. Prices can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the rarity and demand.

How to Spot Authentic Milo Baughman Designs

When shopping for vintage Milo Baughman furniture, keep the following tips in mind to identify authentic pieces:

• Look for Milo Baughman and/or Thayer Coggin labels
• Study the materials and construction methods used
• Examine the shapes and silhouettes - are they archetypically mid-century modern?
• See if the design aligns with Baughman's body of work
• Look for his signature design details like splayed legs and curved forms
• Research the piece using online guides and reference materials

High quality reproductions do exist, so take care when evaluating any chair or stool attributed to Milo Baughman. When in doubt, consult with a vintage furniture expert.

Tips for Styling Milo Baughman Chairs and Stools

Milo Baughman's chairs and stools are ideal for adding mid-century flair to any room. Here are some tips for styling his iconic designs in your home:

• Group a mix of Baughman chairs and stools together in living spaces for a coordinated look.
• Use his side chairs around a large dining table for a retro yet sophisticated dining area.
• Let colors and textures shine by upholstering chairs in vibrant leather, wool, or linen fabrics.
• Accent Baughman lounge chairs with sheepskins or patterned throw pillows for a layered look.
• Situate cantilevered chairs near windows and under pendant lights to highlight their floating silhouettes.
• Pair Baughman stools with a bar cart or kitchen island for handy secondary seating.

Always ensure Baughman's graceful forms stand out against backdrops of clean walls or strategic lighting. The right accessories in wood, chrome, and natural materials will enhance their inherent mid-century appeal.

Maintaining and Repairing Milo Baughman Chairs

To keep vintage Milo Baughman chairs and stools looking their best:

• Dust wood and upholstered areas regularly.
• Vacuum or brush upholstery and use leather cleaners if needed.
• Watch for signs of loose joints, cracked wood, or sagging.
• Retighten loose screws or joints. Refinish wood as needed.
• Reupholster worn fabric, leather, or cushion covers when they become damaged or worn.
• Use touch up markers on minor scratches and nicks.
• Consider professional repairs for any structural or major cosmetic issues.

With some basic care and maintenance, Milo Baughman's chairs and stools will remain stylish and functional for years to come. Follow any manufacturer instructions for the best cleaning methods.

The Enduring Appeal of Milo Baughman

Milo Baughman's furniture designs have persevered for decades thanks to their timeless appearance and relaxed comfort. His chairs and stools epitomize mid-century sophistication with their mix of materials, gentle organic shapes, and focus on functionality.

Whether you prefer the elegance of his Thayer Coggin collections or the innovation of his self-named designs, Baughman's pieces add modern flair to any space. His chairs and stools remain highly coveted gems of mid-century furniture. With some vintage Baughman designs in your home, you'll enjoy the very best of mid-century style for years to come.

FAQs

What are some of Milo Baughman's most famous chair and stool designs?

Some of Milo Baughman's most popular chair and stool designs include the Thayer Coggin lounge chair and ottoman, the scoop chair, cantilevered chairs like the 53 chair, the 79 chair for his own company, and matching bar stools for the home.

Where can I buy vintage Milo Baughman furniture designs?

You can find vintage Milo Baughman chairs and stools from vintage furniture stores, online marketplaces like eBay and Etsy, auction houses, estate sales, and classified ads.

How can I tell if a vintage chair is an authentic Milo Baughman design?

To identify authentic Milo Baughman designs, look for his label, study the materials and construction, examine the archetypal mid-century shapes and details, and research the chair style using guides and reference materials.

What's the best way to style and decorate with Milo Baughman chairs?

Style Milo Baughman chairs by grouping them together in living spaces, using his side chairs in dining rooms, letting colors shine through bold upholstery choices, and situating cantilevered chairs near windows. Ensure the graceful forms stand out.

How should I care for and maintain vintage Milo Baughman furniture?

Care for Baughman chairs by dusting regularly, vacuuming upholstery, watching for loose joints or cracks, retightening loose screws, reupholstering when needed, using touch up markers, and seeking professional repairs if necessary.