Whether you have a fine piece of furniture or a more simply made country example, I welcome all types of antique furniture for restoration. Every piece is given equal care and attention regardless of value.
I cover most aspects of restoration, working with a wide range of materials. All work is approached in a sympathetic manner focusing on preserving the age and integrity of each piece.
From simple jobs such as taking apart loose chair frames for re-assembly, as well as gluing loose lifting veneers or mouldings to more complex re-constructing.
Some examples of work include general cabinetmaking, traditional wax polishing and french polishing. Desk top leathers supplied, metalwork, locks repaired and keys cut, clock case restoration, marquetry and carving.
The aim of Conservation is to preserve artwork, to stabilise and holt further deterioration. Improvements to the pieces appearance is secondary.
With furniture this often consists of re-gluing loose lifting veneers and mouldings, consolidating seat frames from worm damage and minimal surface treatments such as thin beeswax finishes.
This approach is often adopted especially when dealing with pieces in “original and untouched” condition, safeguarding both the integrity and value of the piece. I can advise you on such circumstances.
Restoration is aimed at returning a piece to its known or assumed original state, often replacing missing sections or parts, be it structural or decorative.
This is where the use of period timbers and materials comes in to play. All treatments carried out are reversible.
In spite of the nature of more in depth work, I always approach restoration with the idea less is more, hence avoiding over restoring.
In essence most jobs require a combination of both Conservation and Restoration treatments which are always carefully considered with the client before commencing work.
