Cox & Co: Pioneering Tubular Steel Furniture in Britain

This article forms part of the Decorative and Applied Arts Encyclopedia, a master reference hub providing a structured overview of design history, materials, movements, and practitioners.

The transition of materials and manufacturing techniques often tells a story of innovation and adaptation. One such narrative is that of Cox & Co., a company that initially thrived on the manufacture of automobile components but later became a pioneer in Britain’s tubular steel furniture industry. This journey from automotive parts to stylish and functional furniture is a testament to the company’s versatility and keen insight into the evolving design landscape.

The Early Days: From Automotive to Furniture

From Putney to Cox’s Corner, Watford

Cox & Co. began its operations at the end of 1927, against the backdrop of a motor industry recession. Founded by Roland Wilton Cox, the company capitalized on the opportunity to acquire the Rotax Works at Landor Street, Birmingham, moving these assets to Putney. Here, in a former London County Council Horse Bus Depot and Stables, Cox & Co. embarked on manufacturing motor vehicle components.

The Shift to Tubular Steel Furniture

However, the pivotal moment came in 1930, after Cox & Co. encountered Thonet tubular steel furniture, sparking a shift towards modern design. This was not merely a diversification strategy but a visionary move that aligned with contemporary design trends. By 1931, Cox & Co. had secured significant orders for its tubular steel furniture, including 5,000 chairs for Bobby’s department store and 2,500 tables for Dreamland in Margate. These successes marked the beginning of Cox & Co.’s lasting impact on the British furniture industry.

A Flourishing Era: Design Collaborations and Contracts

Collaborations with Renowned Designers

Cox & Co.’s foray into furniture manufacturing was enriched by collaborations with notable designers such as C.A. Richter, Raymond McGrath, and Serge Chermayeff. These partnerships not only enhanced the company’s design portfolio but also cemented its reputation in the modernist movement.

Prestigious Projects and Government Contracts

The company’s expertise was further recognized through prestigious projects for the BBC’s Broadcasting House, Lyon’s Corner Houses, and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). The transition to government contracts during WWII and a post-war return to furniture production underscored Cox & Co.’s resilience and adaptability.

Legacy and Innovation: Tubular Steel in Public Spaces and Homes

Pioneering Tubular Steel Designs

Cox & Co.’s adoption of tubular steel represented a significant departure from traditional furniture materials, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits. This innovation was not confined to public spaces; Cox & Co. sought to introduce tubular steel furniture into homes, although initial attempts were met with resistance due to its “simple design and Spartan appearance.”

Expansion and Evolution

Despite early challenges, Cox & Co. expanded its range through a licensing agreement with PEL Limited, leading to the creation of bestselling tubular nesting chairs and tables. The company’s ventures into tip-up seating and car seating further demonstrated the versatility and potential of tubular steel.

Cox & Co.’s journey from automotive components to pioneering tubular steel furniture encapsulates a period of remarkable transition in British design history. Through innovation, collaboration, and resilience, Cox & Co. contributed significantly to the modernist movement, leaving a legacy that continues to influence design principles and aesthetics today.