A Legacy to Build on: Cumberland's Past, Present and Future

For over six decades, Cumberland Furniture has been a cornerstone of design excellence, merging classic sensibilities with modern innovation. As we reflect on our journey from a small New York-based company to a leader in sophisticated, contract-grade furniture, our commitment remains the same: to craft beautiful and enduring furniture that works effortlessly together—anywhere.

Founded in 1956 by the Epstein family in New York, Cumberland quickly became synonymous with quality, inspired by notable designers like Jacob Epstein, Jorgen Hansen, and Jens Thuesen, who helped shape its unique aesthetic.

A new era began in 1984 when Irving M. Rosen, co-founder of Pace, acquired the company and introduced contemporary European influences to Cumberland’s portfolio, setting the stage for a brand that could seamlessly unite tradition with modernity.


In 1998, Scott F. Gilmore took the helm, breathing new life into Cumberland by preserving legacy designs while launching fresh collections, merging past and present. In 2003, the brand partnered with Gary Lee Partners to create the Modo Collection—an iconic line that redefined Cumberland’s modern appeal and underscored its place as a leader in high-end contract furniture.

Through the 2000s and beyond, Cumberland has continued to evolve, collaborating with top designers like Jeffrey Botwin, Jordan Goldstein, and David Mocarski. Each partnership brought fresh perspectives, reinforcing Cumberland’s commitment to innovative design that meets the demands of today’s sophisticated spaces.

Today, we honor our legacy while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, creating timeless furniture that balances form and function. As we move forward, we invite you to explore our collections, each piece a testament to our journey and dedication to design excellence. At Cumberland, every creation is a legacy, crafted to inspire and endure.