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Why commission a piece of furniture? You know what you want. In your mind you have an image of how it should look, its colour and size. You have searched high and low, but to no avail. What you find is either too big, too small, almost right - but not quite. Perhaps it’s time to consider commissioning, to create exactly what it is that you are looking for.
Why have a Conservator and Restorer of Antique Furniture design and make furniture for you? Because I repair furniture, some up to 450 years old, I understand what it is from these designs that has promoted longevity. I use traditional methods such as Dovetails and Mortise and Tenons, that have stood the test of time. However, I don’t just make traditional furniture, I also use modern techniques and methods, where appropriate, to create modern designs. Also, as a Restorer, I can offer a wide range of traditional hand finishes, so your new piece compliments or blends with your existing furniture. I take great care to select quality materials from trusted sources.
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Preparing to commission
What do you want? You should have a reasonably clear idea of the size, functionality and colour of the piece. Any visual aids such as magazine clippings, sketches or photographs, to illustrate aspects of design that you can provide would be a great help. I can bring timber and finishing samples along with me to help you decide.
How much do you wish to pay? A piece made to your particular requirements will, inevitably, be more expensive than one factory made. The price of a piece will be determined to some extent by the materials used. More importantly, will be how complicated the design is, influencing how long it takes to make, and the finish required. If you have a budget, the design can be tailored accordingly.
Design fee. A nominal design fee (£100) is payable, reflecting the costs of visiting you, researching, preparing and costing the design.
The commissioning process. I try to make the commissioning of furniture a very personal, enjoyable and rewarding experience in which the client takes an active role at all stages of the journey from workshop to their home.
Initial consultation. This will take place in your home or office, and will establish your exact functional requirements, particular features and dimensions for the piece. At this stage if you have particular likes or dislikes they can be discussed and highlighted. The intended location of the furniture will, if possible, also be viewed.
The design. This will reflect your preferences and requirements, resulting in a piece that is unique to you. As the design evolves, I will provide drawings and a calculation of the likely cost. It will fulfil your practical needs.
The proposal. Once we agree a final design, price and time scale, a written proposal will be drawn up, including:
1. Dimensions
2. Materials
3. Firm final price
4. Payment terms
5. Expected start, finish and delivery date
6. Delivery cost
Production. On receipt of a non-returnable 50% deposit the commission can be booked into the workshop schedule. The remaining 50% will be paid on delivery.
Workshop visits. Clients are very welcome to visit the workshop, by arrangement, whilst the piece is being made. You will be able to see first hand the great care and craftsmanship that goes into the making of your furniture. |
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