Antique Restoration & Repair
We know that your antiques are unique and special pieces, and we take great pride in restoring them to their former glory.
Restoration can be as simple as light cleaning to remove disfiguring dirt or grime, such as on the surface of a painting, or it may include near complete rebuilding or replacement.
Take a look at this barber’s chair that we restored as a surprise Christmas gift. The first photo shows how it looked when the owner’s family brought it to us after rescuing it from years of non-use in the garage. The second photo shows the fully restored barber chair looking in pristine condition.
"Before & After" Gallery
We don't always remember to take "before" photos, but these are a few of our favourite furniture restorations from over the years.
What's involved with a restoration?
Restoration can be as simple as light cleaning to remove disfiguring dirt or grime, such as on the surface of a painting, or it may include near complete rebuilding or replacement, as might be the case with old automobiles or furniture. The main goal of restoration is to "restore" the original appearance or functionality of a piece.
Given that a single piece of furniture may include wood, glass, inlay, leather and fabric, antique restoration encompasses several skills.
There is a lot of difference between restoring and repairing. Functionality may be achieved by a repair, but restoring an item properly is an art-form. Finishes might/may be stripped and redone, but it is essential that the original patination is retained, if possible. Stripping is only done as a last resort, especially with antique furniture.
Some collectors value "patina", or also want an item to still reflect an aesthetic that shows its age- in this respect, an "over restored" item can actually take away from its value than if nothing has been done to the item at all. Therefore, restoration of valuable objects should always be left to professionals who are sensitive to all of the issues, ensuring that a piece retains or increases its value after restoration.
What can we restore for you?
Automotive interiors, household furniture, unique antiques, heirloom or vintage furniture, and so much more. If you have a question about something you would like to restore, please call us!