How do I care for marble tops?

Clean marble surfaces using a soft cloth dampened with warm water and mild soap, avoiding acidic cleaning solutions that etch the stone. Dry the slab thoroughly after wiping to maintain the polished finish and prevent water rings from forming.

Where should I place a bedside cabinet?

These compact pieces fit easily beside a bed, serving as a surface for lamps and small nightly items while offering concealed drawer storage. Their decorative fronts and finished backs also allow them to function independently as small lamp tables in corners or hallways.

How do I distinguish Louis XV and Louis XVI styles?

Louis XV pieces rely on asymmetrical curves, cabriole legs, and flowing floral marquetry that emphasise organic movement. Louis XVI furniture introduces straight tapered legs, geometric symmetry, and classical architectural motifs derived from ancient excavations.

What is the difference between marquetry and parquetry?

Marquetry uses varied veneers to create pictorial scenes, ribbons, or floral arrangements across cabinet doors and tops. Parquetry sticks strictly to geometric tiling arrangements like cubes or chequers to build abstract surface patterns.