Paul László bench

This very rare bench or sofa, designed by Paul László and produced by Glenn of California in the United States, is an outstanding example of mid-century American design that blends architectural rigor with artisanal materiality. The piece reflects László’s characteristic attention to proportion, material contrast, and structural clarity.

Constructed from solid mahogany, the frame presents a warm, reddish-brown tone with a smooth, polished surface that reveals the richness and depth of the wood grain. The frame is precisely cut and joined, exhibiting clean, rectilinear lines that form the bench’s bold geometric structure. The seat and backrest are inset with woven cane panels, which introduce a tactile and visual counterbalance to the denser wood. The cane, rendered in a natural light tan hue, forms a consistent open-weave pattern that allows for breathability while enhancing the piece’s visual lightness.

The backrest and seat are both subtly reclined, offering ergonomic comfort while maintaining the bench’s sculptural presence. The wide proportions and open sides reflect László’s tendency to merge the decorative with the functional, creating furniture that was both aesthetically modern and highly usable.

Condition is excellent, with the cane weave fully intact—no fraying, breaks, or distortion are visible. The mahogany frame is well-preserved, with a polished finish and only minimal signs of wear, such as very light surface marks typical of careful use over time.

Paul László (1900–1993) was a Hungarian-American architect and designer known for his bold modernist interiors and furniture. Active in California during the mid-20th century, he collaborated with influential manufacturers such as Glenn of California, producing designs that often integrated exotic hardwoods, architectural detailing, and luxurious textures. Glenn of California, a pioneering West Coast furniture maker, was instrumental in introducing European modernism to the American market, and its collaboration with László contributed significantly to the modern California aesthetic.

This bench or sofa is a rare and well-preserved example of that collaboration, notable for its sophisticated use of materials and balance of function and form.

Dimensions: 180 cm length × 74 cm depth × 79 cm height × 38 cm seat height
In inches: 70.9 in × 29.1 in × 31.1 in × 15.0 in seat height