Restoring furniture for future generations

My name is Aaron, and I restore period furniture in Washington, D.C. with a focus on historically informed restorations rather than cosmetic reinvention.

Most of what you will see here are restored personal finds: period and high-quality revival furniture restored with close attention to historical context. Evidence of age and use is respected where appropriate, and repairs are carried out with restraint and clarity.

I accept a limited number of restoration commissions for clients who share these values. A selection of past restorations is available in the portfolio to illustrate my scope and approach.

In addition to restorations, I offer furniture for sale, pieces I have personally sourced, studied, and restored available through linked listings at my Etsy storefront, AaronRestores.

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A wooden table with two small potted plants in blue pots and a round ceramic bowl in the center, against a wall with two framed mirrors.

FAQs

  • I’ve restored pieces from 300+ years old to mid-century modern furniture.

    While I focus on high quality, period furniture (pre-1840s) and specialize in English and early American furniture, I also enjoy working on well-made period revival pieces, in addition to other pieces of merit.

    Take a look at my past restorations section or reach out to find out if I can help.

    In addition, since I have a smaller workshop, I focus on smaller case pieces and tables.

  • Each piece is unique and presents it’s own challenges and timelines.

    Because I focus on traditional methods and materials, my restorations may take longer than other shops focused on volume. As an example, glue-ups need 24 hours of curing time. And, each new coat of finish also takes at least 24 hours to dry. I prioritize restoration commissions over my own projects.

    For simple pieces, I generally give a 2-4 week timeline. More complex or larger pieces may take longer.

  • It depends on the complexity and time needed to do a thorough restoration.

    Material costs are usually minimal in a restoration. You’ll mostly be paying for the time it takes to complete a quality job that will last generations.

  • For both restoration services and furniture, I accept cash, Venmo, contactless credit card or Apple Pay.

    Alternatively, for furniture, you can also purchase through my Etsy storefront AaronRestores . Please contact me prior to purchase to arrange final pricing and delivery/pickup options.

  • You can only answer this question.

    Often, restoration costs may exceed auction estimates or even retail prices. However, what you will receive is a usable piece of furniture, preserved for future generations.

    If you still have questions as to whether a restoration monetarily makes sense, ask yourself how much it would cost to make a quality piece today from scratch? Or, how much a fully restored piece of similar quality and vintage would retail an antique store today.

  • Please inquire if you are interested in a piece and live outside of the area. I can suggest national shipping services (like uShip) who can help.

  • All sales are final. Items are sold as-is, and while every effort has been made to accurately describe and restore each piece, natural variations, signs of age, and historical wear should be expected. No warranties, express or implied, are offered. Buyer accepts full responsibility for use and care of the item after delivery.

    That said, I’m happy to discuss any issues that may arise and will strive to work towards an equitable solution.

  • Unfortunately, given the space and equipment needed, I generally do not do dining room tables. This is where modern spraying devices and products may be better. Smaller historic tables are a possibility, so please reach out.