Furniture Repair & Structural Restoration in Melbourne
Specialist repair and structural restoration for mid-century modern and vintage furniture. Based in Northcote, Melbourne, I focus on restoring the internal structure of 1950s–1970s pieces rebuilding strength, stability, and function while carefully preserving original materials and design intent.
This service is ideal for furniture that feels loose, unstable, or weakened, even when the exterior still looks intact. True restoration starts where it matters most — inside the structure, not just on the surface.
Structural restoration over cosmetic touch‑ups
Mid-century furniture was designed to be lightweight, functional, and refined but decades of use, movement, and poorly executed past repairs often weaken joints, frames, and load-bearing structure.
My approach focuses on proper structural restoration rather than temporary fixes. Where possible, original components are carefully repaired, reinforced, and stabilized instead of replaced, ensuring the piece retains its authenticity, strength, and long-term usability.
- Joint reinforcement – tightening and rebuilding loose mortise & tenon, dovetails, and dowels.
- Frame & substrate repair – fixing broken rails, legs, and hidden support structures.
- Veneer & solid wood consolidation – stabilising cracks, splits, and delaminations.
- Hardware & fitting restoration – reattaching, reinforcing, or replacing with era-correct parts.
Every piece is treated as a unique artefact – not a production line.
My restoration process
1. Assessment & diagnosis
In-person or virtual consultation to assess structural condition, identify weakened joints, and understand the history and construction of the piece.
2. Disassembly & cleaning
Careful disassembly of affected areas, removing old adhesives, dirt, and corrosion while preserving original surfaces and preventing any damage to existing timber.
3. Reinforcement & repair
Using hide glues, splines, dowels, or custom-made tenons to restore structural strength, carefully matching timber species and grain direction where required.
4. Reassembly & alignment
Precise clamping and controlled curing to maintain original geometry, ensure squareness, and preserve correct movement tolerances in the restored structure.
5. Finishing & conservation
Minimal finish touch-up to protect repaired areas, always respecting the original patina, tone, and aged character of the piece.
6. Quality check & delivery
Full structural testing, final inspection, and aftercare guidance to ensure the piece remains strong, stable, and well-preserved for decades.
Ready to restore your furniture?
I work with collectors, designers, and homeowners across Melbourne. Let's talk about your piece – no obligation, just honest advice.
📍 Northcote, Melbourne | by appointment only
Richard Lloyd
Mid‑Century Restoration
15+ years experience
🔧 structural integrity first
🪑 1950s – 1970s specialist