When it comes to antique furniture, one of the most common questions we hear at Abbey Group is whether restoration lowers its value. It’s a fair concern—after all, antiques are not just functional pieces; they’re historical artefacts, and often family heirlooms. The answer isn’t black and white, but with the right knowledge and approach, restoration can actually preserve or even enhance value.
The Importance of Sensitive Restoration
The key factor is how the restoration is carried out. Professional, sympathetic restoration that respects the original craftsmanship, materials, and style of the piece typically maintains or increases an item’s value. At Abbey Group, we focus on conservation as much as restoration—meaning we repair and enhance, but never over-modernise.
For example, a delicate clean and polish to remove surface dirt or improve the finish can restore a piece’s appearance without altering its character. Replacing broken parts with carefully matched materials, or re-gluing joints with traditional methods, helps the furniture remain structurally sound while staying true to its origins.
When Restoration Can Impact Value
Problems usually arise when restoration is done without understanding the period, materials, or techniques involved. Overzealous sanding, inappropriate finishes, or replacing original parts unnecessarily can all affect value negatively. In particular, stripping away patina—the natural ageing of wood—can erase decades of history and make a piece less desirable to collectors.
This is why DIY attempts, however well-intentioned, can sometimes do more harm than good. Consulting a specialist restorer like Abbey Group ensures that any intervention is both appropriate and reversible if needed.
Considering Sentimental and Practical Value
How Does Restoring an Antique Lower the Value?
When it comes to antique furniture, one of the most common questions we hear at Abbey Group is whether restoration lowers its value. It’s a fair concern—after all, antiques are not just functional pieces; they’re historical artefacts, and often family heirlooms. The answer isn’t black and white, but with the right knowledge and approach, restoration can actually preserve or even enhance value.
The Importance of Sensitive Restoration
The key factor is how the restoration is carried out. Professional, sympathetic restoration that respects the original craftsmanship, materials, and style of the piece typically maintains or increases an item’s value. At Abbey Group, we focus on conservation as much as restoration—meaning we repair and enhance, but never over-modernise.
For example, a delicate clean and polish to remove surface dirt or improve the finish can restore a piece’s appearance without altering its character. Replacing broken parts with carefully matched materials, or re-gluing joints with traditional methods, helps the furniture remain structurally sound while staying true to its origins.
When Restoration Can Impact Value
Problems usually arise when restoration is done without understanding the period, materials, or techniques involved. Overzealous sanding, inappropriate finishes, or replacing original parts unnecessarily can all affect value negatively. In particular, stripping away patina—the natural ageing of wood—can erase decades of history and make a piece less desirable to collectors.
This is why DIY attempts, however well-intentioned, can sometimes do more harm than good. Consulting a specialist restorer like Abbey Group ensures that any intervention is both appropriate and reversible if needed.
Considering Sentimental and Practical Value
Value isn’t always about money. Many clients come to us with pieces that hold deep emotional value—grandparents’ dining tables, or the chair they remember from childhood. In these cases, restoration offers something priceless: the chance to keep using and enjoying those memories, rather than leaving them in storage.
There’s also the practical angle. A restored antique is more likely to be stable, safe, and functional for everyday use, which extends its lifespan and keeps it relevant in modern homes.
Conclusion
So, does restoring an antique lower the value? If done incorrectly—yes. But when carried out by skilled professionals using appropriate methods, restoration protects your investment, preserves history, and enhances both the beauty and usability of your furniture.
If you’re unsure about a piece, Abbey Group is here to help. We offer expert guidance and restoration services that respect your furniture’s past while preparing it for the future. Call us on 01708 741135 or email info@abbey-group.net to discuss your project.
