Business Details
23 Years
experience
Antique Furniture Restoration Services in Abingdon
Established in 2003, Stephen J Davies is a dedicated Conservator and Restorer of antique furniture based in Abingdon, Oxfordshire. With formal training under Bruce Luckhurst at The Little Surrenden Workshops and additional expertise in modern furniture finishes from Konig UK, our practice combines traditional craftsmanship with contemporary techniques. We specialise in meticulous restoration projects, from repairing veneer damage to full structural reconstructions, ensuring each piece retains its historical integrity. Our services extend to private clients and prestigious companies, with discretion guaranteed throughout the process. The workshop utilises both hand tools and precision machinery to replicate original manufacturing methods, while bespoke commissions incorporate time-tested joinery techniques.Clients benefit from transparent consultations, with home visits and detailed project discussions available. Our commitment to quality is reflected in the careful selection of materials and finishes, ensuring every restoration or custom piece meets exacting standards. With over two decades of experience, we pride ourselves on preserving heritage while delivering tailored solutions for modern needs. The workshop environment, equipped with specialist tools and a dedicated polishing area, supports a comprehensive approach to furniture conservation. Clients are invited to engage directly with the process, from initial design consultations to observing ongoing projects in our workshop.
Services
Cabinet Making
Veneering
Furniture Repair
Oil Gilding
Leathering
Marquetry & Inlay
French Polishing
Sympathetic Restoration
Bespoke Commissions
Workshop Consultations
Details
- Year established: 2003
Highlights and features
- We offer 20+ years of specialist furniture restoration expertise
- Our team uses traditional hand-crafted techniques alongside modern methods
- Discreet service guaranteed for all private and corporate clients
- Bespoke commissions incorporate time-tested joinery and finishes
- Workshop facilities include dedicated polishing and machining areas
Services
Antique Furniture Restoration
Specialist restoration of antique wooden furniture using traditional techniques. Services include structural repairs, veneer replacement, and finish restoration. We employ methods like French polishing and sympathetic repairs to maintain historical integrity while addressing modern usability requirements. Projects range from minor touch-ups to complete reconstructions.
Bespoke Furniture Commissions
Tailored furniture creation combining traditional joinery with contemporary design. We craft pieces using mortise and tenon joints, dovetails, and hand-finished surfaces. Clients receive sample materials and design proposals before production begins. Bespoke items include cabinetry, tables, and display units matching specific spatial and aesthetic requirements.
Surface Finishing
Traditional finishing techniques including French polishing, wax application, and oil-based treatments. Our dedicated polishing facility ensures dust-free environments for perfect finishes. We restore original patinas while offering modern protective coatings. Services cover mark reduction, colour correction, and protective waxing for long-term preservation.
Marquetry & Inlay
Precision marquetry and inlay restoration using traditional methods. We recreate missing decorative elements from historical patterns and client references. Techniques include hand-cut veneer work, stringing, and cross-banding to restore intricate designs. Projects often involve matching original wood species for authentic results.
Oil Gilding
Specialist oil gilding services for decorative furniture elements. We apply gold leaf using traditional gesso and size techniques. Services include repairing damaged gilded surfaces and recreating missing ornamental parts. The process maintains historical accuracy while ensuring durability for modern use.
People
Stephen J Davies
Conservator & Restorer
Stephen trained at The Little Surrenden Workshops in 2003 and with Konig UK in modern finishes. With over 20 years' experience, he specialises in traditional restoration techniques while incorporating modern methods where appropriate. His work combines technical expertise with artistic sensitivity to historical pieces.
Questions
What types of furniture do you restore?
We specialise in antique wooden furniture from post-war to Georgian periods, including chests, tables, chairs, and decorative pieces.
Can you create bespoke furniture pieces?
Yes, we offer custom commissions using traditional joinery techniques and can incorporate modern design elements when appropriate.
Do you provide on-site consultations?
Yes, we offer home visits for project assessments and can discuss requirements in your specific environment.
What restoration techniques do you use?
Our methods include French polishing, veneering, marquetry, oil gilding, and sympathetic repairs using period-appropriate materials.
How long does a typical restoration project take?
Project duration varies by complexity, but we provide estimated timelines during initial consultations and keep clients updated throughout.
Are workshop visits possible?
Yes, by arrangement, clients can visit our workshop to observe ongoing projects and discuss their commissions directly.
