What is an antique seating project?

An antique seating project is a chair, sofa, or stool sold in original condition that requires professional upholstery, webbing, or woodwork restoration before it is usable. These pieces let restorers choose their own fabrics and finishing techniques while preserving an authentic 19th-century or Edwardian wooden frame.

How do I choose the right frame?

Look closely at the proportions, wood type, and structural shape of the armchair or sofa to ensure it fits your interior space. Consider whether you want a deep-seated country house armchair, a low nursing chair, or a French slipper chair, depending on your restoration goals.

Can I use modern fabrics?

Modern textiles are commonly applied to antique frames during the reupholstery process to suit contemporary home interiors. Traditional stuffing methods can be paired with current fire-retardant fabrics to meet modern safety standards while maintaining the vintage silhouette.

How do I identify a Howard style armchair?

Howard style armchairs typically feature deep, comfortable proportions, low rolled arms, and exposed wooden legs often fitted with brass castors. Original examples may bear stamps on the castors or frame, though many later country house armchairs adopted this distinctive comfortable aesthetic.