At some time or another, every piece of furniture needs some special care and attention. Years of intensive use, atmospheric influences, such as dryness and dampness, and later alterations all give rise to the need for restoration to extend life expectancy.
 


Restoring furniture can be carried out in two ways; restoration as such or conservation. In the case of restoration a piece of furniture is restored to its original condition, whereas with conservation the intention is simply to restore or extend its original function.

What is important is that the final result is attained by following ethical work procedures and using the right materials so that a restoration plan can be made which is commensurate with the value of the piece in question.

 

Jan Bolders’ restoration workshop specialises in finishing wood using shellac and other alcohol-based finishes. This traditional manner of finishing wood has been in use since the end of the 17th century. Such finishes can be applied in densities from a transparent silky gloss up to a highly polished black appropriate for French-polished pianos. Many existing finishes can be retained or refreshed in order to keep patina of age. Various kinds of oil and wax are also used or made up when required in order to finish a piece of furniture in a traditional way.
 


Of course you can also turn to us for any restoration work on the most varied items of furniture.  

We have been restoring dining tables, writing desks, clock cases, cabinets, dressers and many other kinds of furniture since 1995 in a traditional and responsible manner and, where necessary, completing the work with the cooperation of colleagues possessing other required skills.