Specialist Service
Furniture Restoration
The Craft
Bringing Furniture Back to Life
Furniture restoration is about more than just recovering a seat. It's about understanding how a piece was originally built, what's gone wrong over the years, and what needs to happen to make it right again. A collapsed spring system, a cracked frame joint, worn webbing, tired padding - these all need addressing before any new fabric goes on.
With over 40 years at the bench, I've restored everything from Georgian wingbacks to 1960s cocktail chairs. Every era has its own construction methods and quirks, and getting the restoration right means understanding those differences. I don't cut corners and I don't rush it. The result is a piece of furniture that's structurally sound, comfortable, and ready for another few decades of use.
Antique Restoration
Respecting the Original Character
Antique furniture deserves careful handling. A Victorian settee or an Edwardian nursing chair wasn't built like modern furniture, and it shouldn't be restored like modern furniture either. I use traditional techniques where appropriate - hand-tied springs, horsehair padding, hessian and calico layers - to keep faith with the original construction.
That said, I'm not precious about it. If a modern material will do a better job and last longer without compromising the character of the piece, I'll recommend it. The goal is always a piece that looks right, feels right, and works properly.
- Victorian and Edwardian settees and chairs
- Georgian wingback armchairs
- Chesterfields and button-back furniture
- Chaise longues and day beds
- Nursing chairs and bedroom furniture
- Period dining chairs
Modern Restoration
Mid-Century, Retro & Contemporary
Not all restoration work involves antiques. Mid-century modern furniture - the G-Plan sofas, Ercol armchairs, Parker Knoll recliners - is hugely popular and well worth restoring. These pieces were built properly and with the right fabric choice, they look stunning in a modern home.
I also restore more recent furniture where the frame and construction are good enough to justify the investment. A well-made sofa from 20 years ago often has a better frame than anything you'd buy new on the high street today.
- Mid-century modern sofas and armchairs
- Retro and vintage furniture
- G-Plan, Ercol, Parker Knoll restoration
- Contemporary furniture with good frames
- Family pieces with sentimental value
The Difference
Before & After
Seeing the transformation is the best way to understand the craft.
The Process
What's Involved in a Restoration
Every restoration starts with a proper look at the piece. I'll assess the frame, the springs, the webbing and the padding to understand what needs doing. Some pieces just need new covering. Others need rebuilding from the frame up. I'll give you an honest assessment and a clear quote before any work starts.
A typical full restoration involves stripping the piece back to the frame, repairing any structural damage, replacing springs and webbing where needed, building up new padding layers, and then covering in your chosen fabric or leather. The result is a piece that's as good as - or better than - the day it was made.
Common Questions
Furniture Restoration FAQs
How much does furniture restoration cost?
Every piece is different. Costs depend on the condition of the frame, the complexity of the restoration and the materials involved. A straightforward armchair restoration might start from a few hundred pounds, while a large antique settee requiring structural work will be more. I always give honest, no-obligation quotes after seeing the piece.
Can badly damaged antique furniture be restored?
In most cases, yes. I've restored pieces with broken frames, collapsed springs, woodworm damage and completely worn coverings. If the bones of the piece are sound, there's usually a way to bring it back. I'll always be honest about whether a restoration is worthwhile.
How long does a furniture restoration take?
Most restorations take between 3 and 6 weeks, depending on the extent of the work and the availability of materials. More complex antique restorations can take longer. I'll give you a realistic timeline upfront and keep you updated throughout.
Is it worth restoring or should I buy new?
If the frame is solid and the piece has character, restoration is almost always worth it. Older furniture was generally built to a higher standard than most modern mass-produced alternatives. You also get to choose exactly the fabric or leather you want, and you're keeping a piece out of landfill.
Got a piece that needs restoring?
Whether it's a cherished antique or a favourite armchair that's seen better days, drop me a line and I'll give you an honest assessment.
Get in Touchor call 07818 181 117