A FOUNDATION IN CRAFTSMANSHIP

My path into restoration began long before furniture.

In July 1993, I completed a four-year motor vehicle painting apprenticeship in Box Hill, specialising in the restoration of luxury vintage Italian sports cars. Many of these vehicles were prepared for national car restoration shows, where shortcuts simply weren’t an option.

That foundation shaped how I approach restoration today — precision, patience, and respect for materials.

FROM INSTRUMENTS TO FURNITURE

After automotive restoration, I worked at Maton Guitars, refining acoustic guitars using traditional staining methods, high-gloss finishes, and nitrocellulose painting systems.

Guitar finishing requires an exceptional level of sensitivity — too much material affects tone; too little compromises durability. This balance directly informs how I approach mid-century furniture restoration.

A SUSTAINABLE APPROACH TO RESTORATION

Today, my focus is firmly on mid-century modern furniture and interiors. I work with original materials wherever possible, restoring rather than replacing, and avoiding finishes that seal timber unnaturally or erase its history.

Sustainability is not a trend in my practice — it’s a responsibility.

TEACHING, WORKSHOPS & MENTORSHIP

Alongside restoration work, I run hands-on furniture restoration workshops in Northcote. Teaching is an important part of what I do.

Quality materials

Thoughtful design

Sustainable restoration practices

Timeless mid-century principles

Restoration knowledge should be shared, not guarded. Learn more about restoration workshops here .

WHY I DO THIS WORK

Mid-century furniture and interiors were designed with intention. When restored thoughtfully, they remain relevant, functional, and beautiful decades later.

My role is not to impose a style — but to protect what already exists.

Rich

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