PAUL FRANKL

Paul T. Frankl (1886-1958), a Viennese émigré, was a vanguard of early modern design in the United States, celebrated for his distinctive “Skyscraper” furniture of the 1920s and later work for Hollywood's elite during the 1930s and 1940s. His innovative designs, including the stair-stepped “Skyscraper” bookcases and streamlined “Speed” chairs, mirrored the excitement of urban growth and the era’s fascination with speed and progress. Frankl also made notable contributions with his rattan furniture, reflecting a softer side of modernity that was both organic and elegant.

Educated at the Technische Hochschule in Charlottenburg, Frankl moved to the United States in 1914, bringing a fresh perspective that combined European artistry with American innovation. He initially established himself in New York City, where his early work, characterized by the use of modern textiles and wallpapers, placed him at the heart of American modernism. By the mid-1920s, Frankl had opened his own shop on 48th Street, aptly named Skyscraper Furniture, which became a hub for modern design.

Frankl’s work transcended furniture design; he was a prolific writer and a staunch advocate for modernism, penning several books that articulated his design philosophy, such as "Form and Re-Form" (1930) and "Machine-Made Leisure" (1932). His writings and designs both advocated for a functional yet stylish approach to modern living, influencing not only furniture design but also the broader cultural context of his time.

In the late 1930s, Frankl relocated to Los Angeles, where he continued to innovate and adapt his style to the relaxed Southern California lifestyle. His clients included many notable figures from Hollywood, which helped cement his reputation as a designer for the stars. Frankl's designs during this period became simpler and more reflective of the indoor-outdoor living that characterized Californian architecture.

Despite his significant influence, Frankl’s contributions were often overshadowed by his contemporaries. Yet, he remains a critical figure in American design history, particularly for his role in shaping the aesthetic of modernism in the United States. His legacy continues to be recognized and celebrated in museum collections and scholarly works, ensuring his place as a pivotal figure in the development of modern American furniture.

Paul T. Frankl passed away in 1958, leaving behind a rich legacy captured in his nearly completed autobiography. This work offers a vivid account of his journey, philosophies, and the many influences that shaped his career. His daughter, Paulette Frankl, continues to honor his memory through her own artistic endeavors, contributing to the enduring legacy of her father's influential career in modern design.

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