Business Details
26 Years
experience
Antique Furniture Restoration Experts
Established in 2000 by Giles Reynolds-Hart, G R H Furniture combines decades of craftsmanship with traditional techniques to deliver specialist antique restoration services. As a Guild of Master Craftsmen member, we prioritise preserving historical integrity while addressing modern restoration needs. Our expertise spans furniture repair, French polishing, and clock case restoration for clients across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. With a network of trusted subcontractors, we handle projects from minor repairs to complete room interiors, specialising in periods ranging from the Stuart era to mid-20th century.Our approach maintains original construction methods and patination, complemented by bespoke metalwork reproduction and period-appropriate materials. Client testimonials from institutions like Fortnum & Mason and private collectors attest to our commitment to excellence in heritage conservation.
Services
Antique Restoration
Clock Case Repairs
French Polishing
Water Damage Repair
Wood Carving
Marquetry
Veneering
Metal Furnishings
Flood Damage Restoration
Colour Matching
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- 25+ years specialising in clock case restoration
- Guild of Master Craftsmen accredited professionals
- Traditional techniques with period-appropriate materials
- Serving Cornwall and Isles of Scilly communities
- Comprehensive repair from minor chips to structural reconstruction
Associations and certifications
- Guild of Master Craftsmen
What people say
Exceptional quality
Professional service
Attention to detail
Thorough restoration
Friendly advice
Services
Clock Case Repairs
Specialist clock case restoration using traditional woodworking techniques. We reconstruct damaged plinths, columns and finials while preserving original patina. Our 25-year expertise ensures period-appropriate repairs including Boulle work, brass inlays and glass replacement. Clients benefit from our collaboration with local horologists for complete timepiece restoration.
Hand French Polishing
Authentic French polishing applied by hand to restore antique furniture. We use UK-made shellac and earth pigments to repair chips and scratches while maintaining historical accuracy. This technique enhances wood grain without obscuring original character, preferred by discerning collectors and heritage institutions.
Water Damage Repair
Comprehensive water damage restoration for antique furniture. Our process removes watermarks and sun bleaching while stabilising structural integrity. We employ controlled drying techniques to prevent warping, followed by colour matching and surface refinishing that restores original appearance without compromising historical value.
Wood Carving
Hand-carved replacement of missing ornamental elements using traditional tools. We replicate intricate patterns from historical periods, matching timber types and carving techniques to maintain authenticity. This service specialises in restoring decorative features on 17th-19th century furniture and architectural woodwork.
Marquetry
Precision marquetry restoration using period-appropriate veneers and stringing. We repair damaged inlays and recreate missing sections with matched timber grains. Our work preserves the artistic integrity of decorative surfaces on antique furniture, from 17th-century Dutch chests to Regency-era writing desks.
People
Giles Reynolds-Hart
Founder & Master Craftsman
Giles Reynolds-Hart established G R H Furniture in 2000 after 25 years apprenticeship and professional experience. His expertise in period furniture restoration combines traditional techniques with modern conservation principles, serving clients from private collectors to national museums.
Questions
Do you work with private collectors and institutions?
Yes, we serve both private clients and institutions including The Brunel Museum and Fortnum & Mason, handling pieces from family heirlooms to museum-grade antiques.
Can you restore severely damaged furniture?
We specialise in reconstructing severely damaged pieces, as demonstrated by our successful restoration of a collapsed longcase clock case to full structural and aesthetic integrity.
What historical periods do you specialise in?
Our expertise spans from the Stuart period (1600s) through to late 20th-century design, with particular strength in Georgian, Regency and Victorian furniture restoration.
Do you offer collection and delivery services?
Yes, we provide complete collection and delivery services for larger items, ensuring secure transportation and protection during transit.
How do you match replacement materials?
We source period-appropriate materials including original brassware, timbers and traditional finishes, with capabilities to age new components to match existing patination.
Can you repair decorative surface details?
We restore decorative elements including marquetry, veneering, carving and gilding, maintaining the original artistic intent while ensuring structural longevity.
