At Abbey Antiques, part of The Abbey Group, we know furniture is more than just wood and polish. It often represents a connection to the past—family memories, generational heritage, and sentimental moments all wrapped into one cherished piece. So when fire strikes and treasured items are left blackened, stained or structurally damaged, it can feel like more than just material loss.
Recently, we were entrusted with a beautiful Wellington Chest that had suffered severe fire damage. The impact of smoke, soot, and water used to extinguish the flames had left it in a heartbreaking state. Many would have considered it beyond saving, but at Abbey, we believe in preserving the irreplaceable.
A Careful and Skilled Restoration Process
Restoring fire- and smoke-damaged furniture requires much more than surface cleaning. It demands deep knowledge of materials, structure, and historical techniques—something our restoration team has spent decades refining.
The Wellington Chest underwent several stages of specialist treatment. First, the soot and odours were neutralised using advanced cleaning systems and ozone treatments. Then, careful dismantling was required to access internal damage caused by water ingress. Once dried and stabilised, the next stage involved meticulous surface stripping, sanding and retouching. Finally, we applied a traditional French polish, chosen to suit the character and age of the piece, bringing back the rich colour and detail lost beneath years of damage.
Preserving What Matters Most
The transformation was remarkable—but even more rewarding was the emotional reaction of the client. This chest, passed down through the family, had seemed lost forever. Seeing it restored to its former glory was more than just satisfying—it was personal.
We don’t just restore furniture—we restore connections to the past. From Victorian dressers to mid-century tables, whether damaged by fire, smoke, flood, or time itself, we’re here to help salvage the irreplaceable.
Conclusion
If you’ve suffered damage to a beloved piece, don’t give up hope. Abbey Antiques and The Abbey Group specialise in restoring fire and smoke-damaged furniture—rebuilding not only the furniture itself but the stories it holds.
Call us on 01708 741135 or email info@abbey-group.net to see how we can help breathe life back into your cherished possessions.