Since age 10, Anthony Cocco has handcrafted designer specified furniture in the same tradition that the neighboring store, Miller Parisian, stitches custom draperies.  Likewise Anthony Cocco furniture is available to the trade exclusively; clients can only acquire pieces through an Interior Designer, like KO Angotti, or through an architect.  For 62 years designers have visited Anthony Cocco with mere design concepts, but eventually they leave with perfectly pillowy furnishings structured of maple and accented with oak, walnut, cherry, or mahogany.  They will customize and fabricate any drawings or cut sheets the designer provides.  If you want a 93” sofa that is only manufactured at 86″, they’ll figure out the pattern, construct the frame, fill it, upholster it, and presto!

During my visit to the workroom, which was surprisingly quiet enough to host a preschool nap-time, I watched five talented craftspeople manually cut, stitch, stretch, tack, and fold each square inch of sofas, dining chairs, ottomans, chaises, headboards, and bed frames.  Worn antiques were stripped down to their skeleton frame waiting to be restored to their original luxury and modern furnishings ,shaped from sketches to perfect quality, waited in the loading dock.   The accent, shape, leg, and size options may seem overwhelming so allow Anthony Cocco’s experience to guide you; he’s been perfecting his skill and customer service since he began working at his father’s shop on 2nd and Spruce. 

Anthony Cocco is strict on policy; all work is done entirely by hand and they use very few synthetics in exchange for burlap, twine, cotton, down, and horsehair.  Designers and clients must see and feel the difference between down filled cushions vs. synthetic stuffing or stained (to look like) mahogany legs vs. solid mahogany legs.  It’s superior product that neither my words nor photos can do justice.  Philadelphia was once the furniture capital of the world, but that trade and talent is disappearing.  One of Anthony’s employees commented that he’s been an upholsterer for 35 years and is thankful that workshops like this one still exist.  There’s no comparison between the comfort and lifespan of Anthony Cocco’s furniture and what you’ll find on showroom floors.  Consider your purchase an investment in the local economy and a unique craft that results in extended durability.  The natural fibers and handcrafted shape of Anthony’s top quality products lengthen the life of his pieces, which increases your overall satisfaction.

KO Angotti is a Philadelphia interior design and energy audit company that patronizes local craftspeople whenever possible.

Reupholstery in progress

"8-knot" hand-tied springs on a chaise frame