Manzi Appraisers & Restorers specialize in giving new life to beloved heirloom furniture, blending traditional craftsmanship with conservation principles. With over 20 years serving Boston and greater New England, our skilled team respects the original beauty and structural integrity of each piece—whether it’s a mid-century modern dresser, an antique walnut bookshelf, or a family heirloom dining table.
We begin the restoration journey by thoroughly assessing the piece. Our experts look for structural issues like weakened joints, warped frames, woodworm damage, or missing elements such as drawer pulls and finials. Historical context matters: we research the maker, period, and design attributes to ensure repairs stay true to the original style. Archival photographs, catalogs, or provenance details often guide our understanding of what the furniture was meant to look like.
Next comes structural stabilization. Loose or cracked joints are re-glued using reversible, conservation-grade adhesives like hide glue. We reinforce internal frame members with traditional joinery techniques—dowel or mortise-and-tenon repairs—so the piece functions safely while preserving authenticity. If broken parts are missing or beyond repair, we carefully fabricate replacements using matching wood species, replicating grain and tool marks so they integrate seamlessly.
Once the structure is sound, we address the piece’s appearance. Surface finish restoration involves identifying the original finish—varnish, shellac, lacquer, or oil—and matching our approach accordingly. For shellac or varnished surfaces, careful stripping of dirty or cracked finish layers is followed by a re-application of matching tones. Stain is color-matched to faded wood, then layered with shellac or polyurethane to restore gloss and protection. For oil-finished items, we rejuvenate the finish using specialized waxes or tung oil blends that bring out natural wood patina.
Beyond aesthetics, surface cleaning removes centuries of grime. Using pH-balanced solutions and gentle solvents, we restore wood texture and sheen without damaging patina. Each piece is tested prior to cleaning to ensure finishes aren’t water-sensitive or prone to bleeds—safeguarding finishes and allowing colors to naturally shine.
Our team always uses reversible conservation materials. Putties, consolidants, and finish coatings comply with museum-grade ethics, ensuring future conservators can remove or re-treat as needed. We keep full records of products used, application methods, and source materials.
Restoration often includes hardware care. Brass handles, escutcheons, and hinges are ultrasonic cleaned and stabilized to prevent corrosion. Missing or damaged hardware is replaced with historically accurate reproductions or restored originals salvaged from similar pieces.
The true test of heirloom restoration comes from evaluating function and appearance. Drawers slide smoothly, top surfaces remain flat, and structural supports withstand gentle pressure. The piece is ready for modern use—be it at home, in an office, or displayed in a gallery—without compromising its historical soul.
Furniture restoration isn’t just cosmetic—it’s a bridge between past and present. With proper care, restored items may see their values increase, especially with supporting documentation. Our clients—whether private individuals, interior designers, or institutions—gain confidence knowing their investment is protected.
At Manzi Appraisers & Restorers, we also coordinate with conservators and appraisers for insurance valuation. Your newly restored piece is accurately reported in estate inventories or insurance schedules—ensuring financial and emotional peace of mind.
Ready to bring your heirloom furniture back to life? Contact Manzi Appraisers & Restorers at 617-995-0022 or visit our Facebook page to arrange an in-person or online consult. Trust our Boston-based specialists to preserve your legacy with expertise, integrity, and care.
