It is very rare that a piece has lived for 40 years or longer and acquires no damage. We have seen it all. Dresser legs that have been repeatedly knocked by a vacuum cleaner, drawers that stick or a cracked veneer and countless dog-chewed chair legs.

We first determine any structural issues that need to be resolved such as: loose or broken joints, shock mounts for Eames Lounge Chairs, drawers that don't slide well, and or missing hardware or wood or veneer that needs replacing. 

Lastly, we determine if we need to remove the original or current finish or if it can be restored. 

Typically all pieces at Hobbs Modern go through this process: 

1. Remove the existing finish with chemical stripper

2. Dismantle completely

3. Steam large dents and scratches 

4. Fill any dents or deep scratches that don't respond to steaming 

5. Sand going through several grits of sand paper 

6. Add correct color to the raw wood based on wood species - Stain or oil. We prefer to use very "see through" finishes so that the natural wood grain shows. 

7. Finish with a protective lacquer finish 

8. Touch up any color that might be missing. 

9. Tone or glaze any wood that needs color adjustment. 

10 Upholster with new foam or down feathers and leather or fabric. 

How do we do it?

We inspect for any alterations or missing original elements of the design. We strip the piece of the existing stain, treat the wood for blemishes, fix loose joints to ensure that the piece is stable, sand by hand and/or machine, and choose the correct stain based on the wood species. The stain is then applied in layers as a means to keep the wood grain as visible and natural as possible.

Finally, we apply a matte satin lacquer to protect and preserve the new finish.

What materials do we use?

We use industrial grade products that you will not find at your local hardware store. Professional grade glues, stains, and lacquers are used so that your piece will be beautiful for many years to come and the end result is a professional grade look and finish. 

Broken or missing veneer is replaced with veneer of the same wood species sourced from old vintage pieces to ensure a better color and grain match. 

We use a careful selection of materials according to the condition and design of each piece, assuring that your furniture remains distinctive, comfortable and durable throughout time.

Our focus is dedicated to making your furniture last a lifetime, allowing you to enjoy its natural beauty in your home or work space for many years.