west elm + Paul Loebach
Paul Loebach comes from a long line of German woodworkers and grew up in the industrial city of Cincinnati, Ohio. His father was a renowned product engineer whose work with plastics for Union Carbide eventually led to the production of the first clear plastic milk jugs. Loebach attended the Rhode Island School of Design and then moved to New York City where he established a design studio in an old knitting factory in Brooklyn. Lauded for his innovative mix of old and new, Loebach borrows from the past but keeps his eye on the future.
"I'm interested in using new production methods and technologies to adapt the warmth and comfort of traditional materials to new ways of living," says Loebach. "I'm generally inspired by the sum of objects historic and recent."
Loebach explores the relationship between form and function in a wide range of home furnishings including textiles, wallpaper, lighting, accessories and furniture. His new collection for west elm features five pieces of furniture that propel 19th century design details into the 21st century.
Combining elements reminiscent of mid-1800s American Shaker furniture with modern materials and silhouettes, Loebach’s pieces exude a playful relationship with the past. "In addition to the look of Shaker-style furniture, the functionality of these pieces is also inspired by the versatility of older 17th century works," says Loebach.
For example, the drop leg table is designed to be comfortable for two by day, but expands to serve six when company arrives. The accompanying dining chairs feature a sculptural modern seat supported by pared down turned-wood legs. Available in a taupe grey lacquer with natural ash legs or allover white lacquer, the dining duo is compatible with a range of styles.
"The wood is a hard, high-quality American species. Using this dense wood makes it possible to create fine detailing and delicate proportions," says Loebach. "As to the colors for this collection, I like the contrast of the warm natural material with cool neutral colors."
Accompanying pieces include a tall bookcase, credenza and a side table (also available in the two colorways.) The slimness of the bookcase makes it useful in a variety of spaces, while the low profile of the credenza also enhances its versatility. The charming side table would work well in a living room or bedroom.
"I see these pieces in an urban or other small-spaces type lifestyle, like my own. They are for people who are thoughtful about the value of interior space," says Loebach.
