Exploring the Design Legacy of Paul Frankl

A Visionary in American Design

Paul T. Frankl, born in Vienna, Austria, in 1886, embarked on a journey that would make him a seminal figure in American design. With roots deeply planted in European culture, Frankl’s architectural studies at the Berlin Polytechnic provided him with a foundation that he would carry across the ocean to the United States in 1914. Settling in New York City, Frankl brought with him a fresh perspective and an unwavering enthusiasm for establishing a distinctly American design ethos.

The Birth of the Skyscraper Style

In the 1920s, amidst the booming construction of skyscrapers that reshaped the New York City skyline, Frankl introduced his celebrated Skyscraper style. This innovative approach mirrored the vertical lines and geometric forms of these towering structures, reimagining them in functional, yet visually striking furniture pieces. His Skyscraper bookcases and cabinets, characterized by their tiered, staggered designs, not only captured the essence of the urban landscape but also marked a departure from traditional furniture forms, setting the stage for American modernism in furniture design.

Paul T. Frankl. Clock, late 1920s Brooklyn Museum

A Hub of Modernism

Frankl’s impact on the design world extended beyond his creations. In 1928, he founded the American Union of Decorative Artists and Craftsmen (AUDAC), playing a crucial role in fostering a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to advancing modernist principles. His establishment of Frankl Galleries on 48th Street, dubbed Skyscraper Furniture, became a beacon for American modernism, attracting a clientele that included celebrities and setting a precedent for the integration of modern design into American homes.

Embracing Change and Innovation

As the 1930s unfolded, Frankl’s design sensibilities evolved. Relocating to Los Angeles, he embraced the relaxed lifestyle and sunny climate of Southern California, which influenced him to incorporate new materials like cork, bamboo, and lacquer into his designs. This period saw Frankl moving towards more casual, accessible furniture pieces, aligning with the emerging preferences of the Hollywood elite and the broader public.

Legacy and Influence

Paul T. Frankl’s contributions to American design are profound and multifaceted. As a designer, architect, painter, and writer, he shaped the contours of American modernism, influencing generations of designers and leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of American furniture design. His work, celebrated for its originality and versatility, continues to inspire and captivate the imagination of designers, historians, and design enthusiasts worldwide.