Maison Robert Owner: Robert Thomas
Maison Robert Owner Robert Thomas - Business Name & Tagline
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Welcome to the world of Maison Robert Minneapolis, where craftsmanship meets a passion for preservation.

 

We work hard to take a step beyond nostalgia by fostering a sanctuary for art, artifacts, collectibles and design elements that we believe are deeply infused with purpose, utility, soul, and function. Our shop, design studio and retail showroom are the catalyst for that vision.

Our mission is simple: to pair our love of antiques and design with our desire to counterbalance throw-away culture that needlessly populates landfills and drains our precious natural resources; through our effort to design, repair, restore, repurpose and ultimately preserve just about anything. We celebrate the stories behind every artifact and work tirelessly to rescue and resuscitate them for all generations to enjoy.

We are deeply rooted in our local Minneapolis-St.Paul community, and do our best to honor the history that has shaped our surroundings. We celebrate the exceptional talents of our local craftspeople, artisans and small businesses and lend our full support to their endeavors in any way we can. We feel that contributing to our community is our small part in preserving the invaluable artistic and craft heritage that defines our region. We deliver locally, ship globally.

Recent customer reviews

*only published with customer consent

"It’s not often that you find someone who has old-fashioned values and a high level of service. From the very beginning of this purchase, the seller was involved throughout the entire process making sure that I got what I needed. There was never any question about what I was receiving or how I would be receiving the item when you spend a large amount of money on something that you see in pictures and have to put faith and trust into the person that you’re purchasing it from, that’s huge. I wish more retailers cared about the product. They sell, and the customers a service as this company does. The item was securely, packaged and delivered as promised with tracking information. There was no damage to the product, and I am indeed grateful for the care that was taken to make sure that I received my item without damage."

Michael (Texas, US)

Revell & Co. Chicago Writing Desk c.1881-1910

"This was my 14-year-old daughter’s dream desk. I love that she’s so interested in quality antiques at such a young age. This was her Christmas present, and she is so happy with the desk!."

Darshann (Los Angeles, US)

Colonial Manufacturing Company Writing/Spinet Desk c.1880 - 1900's

"VV-80 Is Safe And Sound Thanks To Your Amazing Packing. Thank You VERY Much. I Really Appreciate You And All Of Your Efforts. You're The Best. I'll Be Watching Your Auctions For More GREAT Treasures! Best To You.

A Beautiful Victrola With FANTASTIC Packing, Shipping And Communication From Seller. My HIGHEST Recommendations!
Victor Victrola VV-80 Phonograph c.1924 **Excellent Original/100% Serviced** OAK (#335243306120)"

Ed P (Las Vegas, NV)

Victor Victrola VV-80 in Fumed Oak

"Beautiful Phonograph. I Am Thrilled To Own It. Thank You Very Much! Greatly Appreciated!
Antique Brunswick Phonograph Model 207 OAK. 100% Restored! c.1921 (#335068872338)"

Ed P (Las Vegas, NV)

Antique Brunswick Model 207 Oak

"My first victrola and what a beauty! Super fast shipping and was packaged so well a tank could have rolled over it and not hurt it. Robert is very personable and helpful. Highly recommend!"

Gregory (Queensbury, NY)

1920 Victrola VV-XI

"I am beyond thrilled with this piece. The communication was excellent and the care taken with shipping was amazing. Highly recommended."

Lee W. (East Greenwich, RI)

Hepplewhite Landstrom Writing Desk c.1880's

"Robert fixed the hinge on my little humidor cabinet that some other guy screwed up. I didn't even know if it was possible to fix, but Robert is very discerning and skilled. He has a deep respect for antique furniture and you can trust him with yours. I was very happy with him. He is also a great communicator and will get back to you quickly and really explain everything. I was lucky to find him."

Sara M. (Minneapolis, MN)

Antique Humidor

"The service is fantastic and the quality of the work is even better. We are very happy with the repair work on our dresser. Nice work!"

Scott B. (Minneapolis, MN)

Vintage Cherry Dresser

"I am thankful to have found Maison-Robert on Google search. I purchased a talking machine years ago and haven’t been able to find anyone in years to restore it. Robert & Crew addressed my inquiry timely and pricing is reasonable. The talking machine is given new life and I’m happy to finally hear what’s on the vinyl that I had purchased with the machine years ago. I’d highly recommend Maison-Robert for your restoration needs!"

Mei H. (Minneapolis, MN)

Standard Talking Machine Restoration

"We had 2 wooden cherry chairs that kept coming apart with use. We contacted Robert Maison and dropped off our chairs.
We got them back and they are sturdy and beautiful. Very pleased to have found someone who appreciates and can repair nice wooden furniture!"

Bob & Ginny N. (Chicago, IL)

Vintage Amish Oak

"I would highly recommend Maison Roberts' antique restoration services. I was looking for a highly skilled team to repair my beloved great Grandmother's century old phonograph. It has been in our family for years and a truly cherished heirloom. The professional, friendly and dedicated staff at Maison Robert listened closely to my ideas of restoring this beautiful item to it's magnificent original condition. They not only restored my phonograph but also educated me on maintaining its beauty. I'm am absolutely thrilled that I am now able to fully enjoy this treasured family piece!"

Angela J. (Minneapolis, MN)

Antique Phonograph Restoration
Maison Robert Happy Holidays, Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, Diwali, Bodhi Day, Eid al-Fitr, Yule, Winter Solstice

Shop Maison Robert

Interior Design Services

Antique Phonograph Repair and Restoration

Vintage Motorcycle Repair & Restoration

Mid Century Modern Furniture

Services

(US & Canada)

ANTIQUE + vintage Sales Repair & Restoration

 

We are your local destination for Minneapolis Antiques Restoration & Preservation services. Our skilled artisans have a passion for meticulously restoring your treasured artifacts with the utmost care and expertise. Our vintage sales repair & restoration services cover a wide range of art, antique and collectible items, of all values, of all shapes and sizes from delicate artwork, vintage furniture, primitives and phonographs to mid century industrial, cars and motorcycles. Even digital restorations. Using traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail, we breathe new life into each piece while accurately preserving its authentic charm, beauty and overall integrity.

Maison Robert Repair & Restoration Minneapolis

original Design services

 

We love to design and actualize unique and innovative creations that transcend conventional boundaries. With a team of talented designers and artisans, we specialize in curating bespoke pieces tailored to your distinct taste and lifestyle. From concept to completion, we pour creativity and expertise into every project, ensuring unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail. Whether you seek strikingly unique furniture, bespoke architectural elements captivating decor, or awe-inspiring art, we work hard to realize your ideas and your style by making them tangible realities. Embrace the extraordinary and set your space apart with our exceptional Original Design services. Let us help bring your visions to life

original design at maison robert minneapolis

Home Interiors & Exterior design

 

Transforming Homes with Masterful Craftsmanship: Maison Robert is a premier destination for Home Interior & Exterior Renovation and Fine Carpentry services. With a passion for bringing visions to life, our skilled artisans and craftsmen execute each project with precision and dedication, on time and on budget. From interior makeovers that redefine living spaces to exterior transformations that elevate curb appeal, we specialize in turning houses into dream homes. Our fine carpentry services add a touch of artistry to every detail, crafting custom pieces that reflect your unique style and personality. Whether it’s renovating a kitchen, creating bespoke furniture, or revitalizing outdoor spaces, we blend creativity with meticulous craftsmanship.

Interior design Maison Robert Minneapolis

VINTAGE electrical Conversion & repair

 

Modernize and Preserve Your Vintage Electrical Household Goods: Discover our expert conversion, upgrade, restoration and repair services at Maison Robert. Our skilled licensed technicians specialize in bringing cherished vintage electrical items into the modern age while Maintaining their authentic charm. From converting lamps, radios, and fans to contemporary energy efficient power sources to meticulous repairs and upgrades, we ensure each piece meets current safety and performance standards. With a focus on quality materials, safety, and preservation, we work hard to achieve a harmonious balance of classic aesthetics and modern functionality.

electrical conversion maison robert

Salvage Removal & Installation

 

Reclaiming Spaces Sustainably: We are a leading provider of Salvage Installations & Removal services. Our expertise lies in curating eco-conscious installations and offering seamlessly surgical removal solutions for salvaged materials. With a commitment to sustainability, we repurpose reclaimed items, infusing character and history into your spaces. Our skilled team handles the entire process, from sourcing unique salvaged pieces to professional installations that breathe new life into your environment. Whether it’s salvaged wood accent walls, vintage fixtures, or reclaimed metal artworks, we elevate your space with a touch of authenticity and environmental responsibility. Partner with us to create spaces that tell compelling stories and reflect your dedication to preserving our planet.

architectural salvage MRM

Got "Junk"? Consignments & Donations

 

Discover the Hidden Value of Your Treasures: We serve as a trusted hub for Antiques & Collectibles Consignment Services. Our experienced team will carefully assess each item you wish to consign, ensuring fair and accurate pricing. We collaborate with you to set a fair consignment price and agreement terms, connecting your treasures with our network of eager collectors. Some items we buy directly, just ask. Your items will be showcased in our gallery with genuine care and attention to detail, supported by targeted marketing to reach a network interested buyers and dealers. Rest assured, we handle negotiations and transactions securely, ensuring you receive payments promptly once the sale is complete.

furniture donation MRM

vintage + historic home restoration + preservation

 

At Maison Robert Minneapolis, we specialize in the careful restoration and preservation of historic interior elements, ensuring your cherished features are restored to their original splendor.

Preserving History with Care

Restoring historic elements can be daunting. Concerns about maintaining authenticity, quality of workmanship, and material integrity are common. Our team of skilled artisans and preservationists addresses these concerns with precision and dedication. Using traditional techniques and authentic materials, we ensure every detail is meticulously restored, preserving the historical significance and beauty of your home.

Maison Robert Historic home preservation

Appraisals

 

We have a profound appreciation for history and a keen eye for detail, our experienced appraisers in both Minneapolis and Amsterdam meticulously evaluate antique treasures and vintage architectural elements to unveil their true local market value. Whether you possess rare antiques or historical architectural pieces, we provide comprehensive and accurate assessments that empower you with valuable insights. Our commitment to authenticity and in-depth research ensures you receive fair and unbiased evaluations. Discover the hidden value of your cherished artifacts and architectural marvels with our appraisal services expert.

Art, antique, appraisal, valuation, Maison-robert.com

Concierge & Brokerage

 

Maison Robert is also a brokerage house offering exclusive services in Art, Antiques, Restorations, Concierge, and Brokerage. Our team comprises connoisseurs with a profound appreciation for and knowledge of fine arts, history, and lifestyle. With meticulous attention to detail, we tailor our services to your unique preferences, providing bespoke and cultivated guidance. From sourcing coveted masterpieces and rare or sought after antiquities to orchestrating impeccable restorations and offering exclusive concierge services, we navigate the complexities of the art, design and luxury lifestyle with grace.

antique concierge brokerage maison robert

Explore Our Antique Phonograph Repair & Restoration Minneapolis Services

*Most services can be performed in home. For those that can’t, we offer free pick-up and return services within the Minneapolis/St.Paul Metro Area. For those outside if the MSP area, we regularly ship to and from the US, Canada & The EU (motor & removable components repair only).

antique phonograph repair & Restoration Minneapolis Minnesota
Phonograph, Gramophone repair & Restoration, Maison RObert Restoration & Repair, Stand Talking Machine, Model A

Sale Item Spotlight

New Arrival

Wilhelm Michigan Antique Spint@Maison Robert Minneapolis

Rare Wilhelm Furniture Co. Mahogany/Walnut Spinet Writing Desk C.1910

This exceptionally beautiful solid mahogany/burl walnut Wilhelm spinet desk is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of early 20th-century American furniture. Crafted from rich mahogany and accented with striking burl walnut inlays, this desk exudes a sense of refined elegance.

A Versatile Piece for the Modern Home

Beyond its historical significance, this piece offers a compact design and an ample retractable workspace to make for an ideal functional computer desk, perfect for home offices or small spaces. Alternatively, its stunning aesthetic and intricate details make it a captivating entryway table, welcoming guests with timeless style.

Key Features:

Dovetail Joinery: A hallmark of fine furniture construction, ensuring durability and longevity.
Burl Walnut Inlays: Intricate marquetry work adds a touch of opulence and sophistication.
Spacious Writing Surface: The spinet-style top reveals a generous workspace, perfect for both work and contemplation.
Ample Storage: The lower section offers ample storage for books, papers, and other essentials + two cubby drawers.
Exceptional Condition: This desk has been meticulously preserved, retaining its original patina and character.
*The main brass hinge is cracked, but our shop tech calls it an (aesthetic anomaly). We think it adds character, but is very easy to replace if you don’t see it that way : ).

This Wilhelm desk is more than just a piece of furniture; it’s a piece of history. It invites you to step back in time and experience the craftsmanship of a bygone era. **The Wilhelm Furniture Company was a significant furniture manufacturer in Sturgis, Michigan, operating from 1911 to 1932. They produced a wide range of high-quality furniture, known for its craftsmanship and design**. It’s a gorgeous desk!

Dimensions:

W:38″x H:33.5″x D:19″(Writing surface extended is 30.5″x 16″)(Large Drawer is 30.5″x 16″)

New Arrival

Thonet.FMG.Fameg, 4C, Bentwood, Maison Robert

Rare Wilhelm Furniture Co. Mahogany/Walnut Spinet Writing Desk C.1910

This exceptionally beautiful solid mahogany/burl walnut Wilhelm spinet desk is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of early 20th-century American furniture. Crafted from rich mahogany and accented with striking burl walnut inlays, this desk exudes a sense of refined elegance.

A Versatile Piece for the Modern Home

Beyond its historical significance, this piece offers a compact design and an ample retractable workspace to make for an ideal functional computer desk, perfect for home offices or small spaces. Alternatively, its stunning aesthetic and intricate details make it a captivating entryway table, welcoming guests with timeless style.

Key Features:

Dovetail Joinery: A hallmark of fine furniture construction, ensuring durability and longevity.
Burl Walnut Inlays: Intricate marquetry work adds a touch of opulence and sophistication.
Spacious Writing Surface: The spinet-style top reveals a generous workspace, perfect for both work and contemplation.
Ample Storage: The lower section offers ample storage for books, papers, and other essentials + two cubby drawers.
Exceptional Condition: This desk has been meticulously preserved, retaining its original patina and character.
*The main brass hinge is cracked, but our shop tech calls it an (aesthetic anomaly). We think it adds character, but is very easy to replace if you don’t see it that way : ).

This Wilhelm desk is more than just a piece of furniture; it’s a piece of history. It invites you to step back in time and experience the craftsmanship of a bygone era. **The Wilhelm Furniture Company was a significant furniture manufacturer in Sturgis, Michigan, operating from 1911 to 1932. They produced a wide range of high-quality furniture, known for its craftsmanship and design**. It’s a gorgeous desk!

Dimensions:

W:38″x H:33.5″x D:19″(Writing surface extended is 30.5″x 16″)(Large Drawer is 30.5″x 16″)

New Arrival

Victor Victrola VV-XVI by Maison Robert

A Symphony of Sound: The Victrola XVI

Introduced in 1906, the Victrola XVI, or “Victrola the Sixteenth,” marked a revolution in phonograph design. This elegant cabinet, with its hidden horn, was a far cry from the cumbersome machines that had dominated the market. The XVI’s innovative design, featuring “tone doors” for volume control and a concealed soundbox, offered a refined listening experience that captivated affluent consumers.

This beautifully restored 1913 Victor Victrola VV-XVI Gramophone is a rare opportunity to own a piece of the Victor Talking Machine legacy. This particular gramophone/phonograph is dressed in stunning solid mahogany and has been mechanically serviced throughout to ensure that it is in perfect working order and has a beautiful rich sound quality. This Victrola VV XVI is constructed from high-quality materials, including mahogany, brass, and nickel. The cabinet is made of solid mahogany, which gives it a rich, dark color.The brass-plated parts, such as the crank and the tone arm, add to the phonograph’s elegance.

This machine has been 100% serviced mechanically, including a rebuild of the reproducer (the mica is original, the gaskets – which perish over time and greatly diminish the sound quality, have been replaced with genuine Victor factory gaskets). *Record albums/books not included.

Dimensions:

50″ Tall (Lid Closed)

24″ Wide

25″ Deep

Sold

Stunning Edison C-19 Model 250 in Solid Mahogany Serial SM-84886

Stunning Edison C-19 Model 250 in Solid Mahogany Serial SM=84886

 

A rare opportunity to acquire a top-tier Edison C-19 Model 250 phonograph, meticulously refreshed and boasting exceptional features. This stunning instrument, crafted from glorious solid mahogany, is a true testament to the golden age of phonographs.

Beyond its breathtaking aesthetics, this C-19 offers unparalleled functionality for the discerning collector. This Edison has been mechanically (motor out) bench cleaned and adjusted to factory specifications, ensuring optimal performance and preservation of your treasured recordings. The patina is gorgeous, there are very minor signs of use consistent with it’s age (please refer to photo’s) or feel free to ask for additional.

Additionally – This exceptional offering includes the highly sought-after lateral groove record playback attachment as well as two original working keys for the cabinet and lid locks (rare). Expand your sonic library and explore the vast world of lateral groove recordings alongside your beloved Diamond Discs.

Sold

Antique Widdicomb Mahogany Spinet Writing Desk@ Maison Robert Minneapolis

Beautiful high end antique spinet desk dressed in solid mahogany, with elegant queen Anne style cabriole legs. The locks are brass (by Eagle Lock Co.) there is no key present, but they are easy enough to find and have fitted to the lock at a minimal cost, the (invisible/Soss hinge type) hinges are nickel.

This desk is very well constructed with high end joinery, materials and construction techniques. It features several deep drawers (also constructed of solid mahogany, and a number of convenient cubbies for smaller loose items. The letter/pen dividers on both the left and right side of the desk are both removable (they lift out) to reveal two deep secret/false wall “valuables” compartments. The surface slides in/out to create a larger writing/laptop surface.

This desk dates to late 1800’s early 1900’s and was a one family desk who emigrated from Norway to the Duluth area via the Great Lakes around 1880. The desk is thought to be Widdicomb and would be a great addition to any space or style, traditional or contemporary, large or small.

Width: 41 inches
Height: 34 inches
Depth: 21.5 inches

Sold

Revell & Co. Chicago, 19th Century Writing Desk, Maison Robert Antiques Minneapolis

A Rare and Exquisite Early Landstrom Desk with Hepplewhite Influences

This exceptional early Landstrom desk presents a captivating fusion of design, craftsmanship, and historical intrigue. Crafted from stunning burl walnut, and other fine hardwoods, the desk’s refined and compact form exudes both elegance and practicality, perfectly complementing both intimate writing spaces and contemporary living areas.

Distinguishing features:

Predating the “official” 1879 founding of Landstrom Furniture, making it a true rarity for discerning collectors.
Hepplewhite-inspired fluted legs and graceful lines evoke the refined aesthetic of the post Federal Period.
Original solid brass pulls with a classic design enhance the desk’s historical authenticity.
Charming and well-preserved original inkwell whispers tales of past creativity and intellectual pursuits.
Original manufacturers tag on back (not legible unfortunately) stand as a testament to the careful ownership and care of this item.
Original Bassick Nomar feet c.1849 onward
Original Landstrom makers mark/roundel.
Superb original condition throughout, further testament to its enduring quality and careful preservation.

This Landstrom desk stands as a evidence to the artistry and craftsmanship of its era. Its unique features and captivating story make it a treasure for discerning collectors and passionate enthusiasts of both Federal and Hepplewhite styles.

Dimensions:

Depth: 20 inches
Width: 30 inches
Height: 30.5 inches

Condition: Superb original condition, with very minimal wear and tear consistent with age.

*Independent expert valuations welcomed.

Additional Information:

High-resolution photographs available upon request.
In-person viewing available by appointment.
Professional shipping arrangements can be facilitated.

Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own a piece of American history and elevate your space with this remarkable early Landstrom desk.

 

**Free Shipping Continental US, Free Delivery or Pickup Minneapolis/St.Paul Metro**

Sold

Revell & Co. Chicago, 19th Century Writing Desk, Maison Robert Antiques Minneapolis

This beautiful Revell & Co. Chicago folding writing desk with nickel hardware is a stunning and unique example of late 19th/early 20th century American furniture. The desk is constructed of solid mahogany and features a variety of intricate carvings and moldings. The desk has a large writing surface, as well as a number of drawers and compartments for storing pens, ink, paper, and other supplies.

The desk folds open to reveal a hidden storage compartments, and slide out writing/laptop surface. The compartments are perfect for storing important documents, books, supplies or other valuables. The desk also features nickel hardware, which adds a touch of elegance and sophistication.

The desk has been professionally restored to its original condition. The original mahogany finish has been buffed to a rich, warm patina, and the moldings have been carefully cleaned and polished. In perfect 100% original condition. (What we think is) a US Government, or military inventory marker on the underside, as Revell & Co. Chicago did have military supply contracts at the time.

This desk is a perfect addition to any home office or study. It is both functional and stylish, and it is sure to be a conversation piece for years to come.

*19th century brace back Windsor chair sold separately, but will offer a package discount if purchased as a set.

***Sourced as set/companion to 18th c. Windsor Chair desk here

Features:

Solid mahogany construction
Intricate carvings and moldings
Large retractable writing/laptop surface
Hidden storage compartment
Nickel hardware
Professionally restored to its original condition

Dimensions:

Height: 32.5 inches
Width: 36 inches
Depth: 21 inches

 

Set of 5 Nanna & Jørgen Ditzels famous Rosewood Badminton chairs. Minor signs of common use here and there, but nothing that subtracts from the timeless beauty or overall value of this hard to find set.

Item: ND150 Badminton Chair

Designer: Nanna & Jorgen Ditzel

Distributed by: George Tanier, NYC

Manufacturer: Poul Kolds Savværk, Denmark Design

Period: c.1958

About The Designer:

Throughout her 60-year career, Nanna Ditzel established herself as one of the most distinctive figures in Danish design. She rethought the functionalist design tradition with her imaginative expressions and left her mark on thousands of private homes and public forums.

From the outset, Nanna Ditzel’s work was characterized by organic and dynamic forms inspired by nature’s diversity. She experimented constantly and managed to create a very personal and expressive idiom, characterised by a profound desire for freedom and an unrelenting urge to improve on well-known objects of use. Nanna Ditzel could not and did not want to feel confined in her work, and she and her husband, furniture designer Jørgen Ditzel, became a natural and important part of the avantgarde designers of the time, who dared to embrace change and innovation and who fit into an
international context.

*510. USD per chair (ea). obo. Dimensions: 56 D x 51 W x 74 H cm seat height: 43 cm

 

 

FAQ

MRM Client FAQ's:

Are you legit?

100%. We get it, the internet and let’s be honest the world in general, is rife with grifters – that’s just an unfortunate part of navigating the landsacpe so to speak. We encourage customers to reach out 1:1, we’d be more than happy to accommodate any request you have that ensures your purchase or repair suits your comfort level. Having said that, we also list most (but not all) of our inventory on a number of reputable online sales platforms if you prefer to go that way : )

Help me to pronounce your business name correctly : )

Sure, no problem. (Maison) French for “House” is typically pronounced /ˈmeɪzɑn/ or /may – zahn /.

The name Maison Robert simply translates to “House Of Robert”, some call us MRM if that works better for you. Hope that helps!

 

Is it worth it to restore antique furniture?

Whether or not it is worth it to restore antique furniture depends on a number of factors, including the condition of the piece, the rarity of the piece, the cost of restoration, the market value of the piece in both restored vs. unrestored condition, and above all the personal value that the owner places on the piece. There is no wrong answer here.
Some Basic Considerations:

Condition of the piece

If the piece is in good condition, with only minor wear and tear, it may not be necessary to restore it. However, if the piece is damaged or has missing parts, restoration may be necessary to preserve the piece and its value.

Rarity of the piece

Rare or valuable antique furniture may be worth restoring, even if it is in poor condition. This is because the value of the piece may outweigh the cost of restoration. Additionally, rare or valuable antique furniture may be difficult to replace, so restoring it may be the only way to preserve it.

Cost of restoration

The cost of restoring antique furniture can vary widely, depending on the extent of the damage or deacy, the materials and expertise required, and the depth of the restoration. It is important to us to walk through expectations with all our clients, our goal is to make your piece beautiful again and we have several affordable techniques and tools available to make that happen at a reasonable rate. Restoration and refurbishment doesn’t need to be cost prohibitive.

Personal value

The personal value that the owner places on the piece is another important factor to consider. If the piece has sentimental value, the owner may be willing to spend more money on restoration, even if it is not financially advantageous.

Other Considerations:

  • Historical and cultural significance: Antique furniture may be significant for a variety of reasons, such as its association with a particular historical event or person, its representation of a particular style or period of time, or its cultural value to a particular community. When considering whether or not to restore antique furniture, it is important to consider its historical and cultural significance. For example, a piece of furniture that was used by a famous historical figure may be worth restoring even if it is in poor condition, because of its historical and cultural value.

  • Aesthetic value: Antique furniture may also have aesthetic value, simply because it is beautiful. For example, a piece of antique furniture with intricate carvings or a unique design may be worth restoring even if it is not historically or culturally significant. However, it is important to consider the aesthetic value of the piece in relation to the cost of restoration. If the cost of restoration is high, it may not be worth it to restore the piece unless it has significant historical, cultural, or personal value.

  • Environmental impact: The process of restoring antique furniture can sometimes have a negative environmental impact, due to the use of chemicals and other materials. It is important to consider the environmental impact of restoration when making a decision about whether or not to restore antique furniture. For example, if the piece of furniture is made of rare or endangered wood, it may not be worth restoring, even if it has significant historical or cultural value.

  • Sustainability: Restoring antique furniture can be a more sustainable option than buying new furniture. This is because the process of manufacturing new furniture can be energy-intensive and can produce waste. Restoring antique furniture also helps to preserve the cultural heritage of the past.

  • Ethics: There is also an ethical dimension to the decision of whether or not to restore antique furniture. Some people believe that it is important to preserve antique furniture for future generations, while others believe that it is important to consider the environmental impact of restoration. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to restore antique furniture is a complex one that must be made on a case-by-case basis.

What kind of services do you offer? Do you do repairs in addition to restoration? Thanks!

…to answer your second question first, absolutely. The term restoration is generally used in our studio as term that outlines the restoration or refurbishment of an item to it’s “pristine original issue state”. Having said that, a repair (simple, or complex) falls under that same umbrella, but we see that more as a partial restoration : ). Every project is different and every client has their own unique vision for their treasure. Some simply want their item to be safe and functional, whereas others may want a museum quality show piece.

We do both, on everything from old parlor stoves, gramophones and vintage electrics/electronics to high end design furniture, teak outdoor furniture..even vintage cars and motorcycles…

What is the typical turnaround time for a design or restoration project?

…the turnaround time varies based on the project’s complexity and our workload. We’ll work with you on an estimated timeline during the consultation. If you have dropped your item off with us, we typically prefer to call but also like to include “discovery” photos via e-mail or text of any potential issues or concerns we have unearthed that may require additional time or budget. Some repairs or restorations may require special order parts, which is also a time consideration…

Do you offer custom design services?

…Yes!, we love working on custom projects. Our team loves to collaborate in bringing your unique ideas to life, whether it’s furniture design, upcycling, or an entire interior re-design…
Do you provide pickup and delivery services for restoration projects?

…we do offer pickup and delivery services, especially for larger items, to ensure they’re handled with care. There is a small fee that hinges on size and location of item pickup…

What types of materials do you use for restoration and design projects?

…we use high-quality materials sourced from our trusted suppliers. We are super picky about paying homage to a given item and go to great lengths (and tomes of historical or technical data sheets) in order to identify historically accurate original colors, methods, and materials. Whenever possible, we opt for eco-friendly materials. Having said that there are some chemical or industrial processes that absolutely are not. We have relationships with a qualified licensed vendors for those and always encourage the subtutution of a modern variant for potentially caustic coatings, materials or processes..
Do you offer valuations or appraisals?

100%.

How old is an antique?

Hi (client),

 

I’d say that 100 years old is generally considered to be the benchmark for defining an antique. This definition is based on the idea that antiques have historical value and are a direct reflection of the past. Having said that, some people believe that the definition of an antique should be far more nuanced, taking into account factors such as rarity, artistic merit, and cultural significance. Another more generous way to think about antiques is simply as a material culture of the past. Hope this helps!

I would like to know where to sell antique furniture?

Hi (client)!,

 

Thank you for your inquiry about selling antique furniture. I can offer you the following “totally unbiased :)” advice:

Maison Robert is a premier destination for antique furniture consignment and refurbishment. We offer a variety of services to help you sell your antique furniture for the highest possible price, including:

  • Consignment: We can consign your antique furniture to sell in our showroom. We have a team of experienced professionals who can assess the value of your furniture and market it to potential buyers.
  • Refurbishment: We offer a variety of refurbishment services to improve the appearance and value of your antique furniture. Our team of skilled craftsmen can repair damage, refinish surfaces, and reupholster cushions.

If you are considering selling your antique furniture, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your options. We offer a free consultation and will be happy to answer any questions you have.

 

Additional benefits of consigning your antique furniture to Maison Robert:

  • We have a large and established clientele of buyers who are interested in antique furniture.
  • We offer competitive commission rates.
  • We can take care of all of the details of selling your furniture, from marketing to shipping.
  • We are fully insured and bonded.

If that isn’t what you are afetr, I would suggest:

 

  • Local antique dealers: This can be a good option if you want to sell your furniture quickly and easily. However, keep in mind that antique dealers will typically offer you less than market value for your furniture.
  • Auction houses: This can be a good option if you have high-value antique furniture. However, keep in mind that there is a risk of not getting the price you want at auction.
  • Online marketplaces: There are a number of different online marketplaces where you can sell antique furniture, such as eBay, Etsy, and Chairish. This can be a good option if you want to reach a wider audience of potential buyers.
  • Consignment shops: Consignment shops sell items on behalf of the owner. This can be a good option if you don’t have the time or expertise to sell your furniture yourself.

 

Hope this helps!

 

 

Do you offer items for sale?

…absolutely! Some are original designs, some are restorations, most are simple acquisitions or trades. We also have brokerage services available, so feel free to let us know what you’re in search of. We are (currently) more of a design studio/workshop than a retail shop but do offer visits in person by appointment only, sale items can be found on our website shop. A retail venue for Maison Robert is currently in the works with plans to be on location by early autumn 2024!

How does shipping work?

For small to medium sized items we typically ship UPS or FedEx globally. For larger items we use specialty white glove antique freight forwarders. Imagine for a moment that you have spent weeks constructing a birthday gift for a family member, and now it’s time to ship it cross country to them. The last thing in the world you want is for that item to arrive in shambles, it would be heartbreaking. This is precisely how we feel every time an item goes out the door. We pack/crate with great care to negate any/all eventualities. Good shipping costs good dollars, that’s a fact.

What is your return policy?

We accept returns on a case by case basis within 30 days of purchase. We understand that returning items can be challenging, especially when shipping companies are involved. However, we are committed to providing our customers with the best possible shopping experience, and we will always do our best to accommodate all return requests.

Please note that large or rare items may be more susceptible to damage during shipping. We recommend that you adequately insure all returned items, as we are not responsible for any damage that occurs during shipping. For local items this is less of a potential issue.

All accepted returns are subject to a 15% restocking fee, and the customer is responsible for the cost of return shipping via the same shipper and in the same condition as the item was sent.

To initiate a return, please follow the instructions on your original purchase order, or contact us directly.

..How Can We Help?

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Maison Robert. Beautifully Built.

 

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