Our Expertise
We bring craftsmanship and research together to ensure your restoration project reflects its original character while meeting modern standards.
Services include:
Traditional Finishes: Shellac, French polish, varnish, and decorative techniques such as woodgraining and marbling.
Woodwork Repairs: Joinery and paneling restoration, including patching holes left by electricians or other trades.
Colour Research & Specifications: Historically accurate colour schemes and specialist specifications for interior and exterior paintwork.
Painting Advice: Guidance on best practices for heritage projects, including safe handling of lead-based paint and recommendations for substrates intended for clear coating (see our Unitec Marae project).
Selected WorkS
Te Noho Kotahitanga Marae
The carved portico of this iconic marae was mistakenly undercoated and finished in a semi-gloss paint. We prepared a detailed report and restoration specifications for the project, which included removing the paint and undercoat, cleaning the substrate, and applying a traditional stain.
Te Noho Kotahitanga Marae is considered New Zealand’s largest artwork, carved by renowned artist Lionel Grant. It was never intended to be coated in opaque paint, and our work helped return it to its original vision.
Scientology Church, Auckland
This stunning neo-Gothic building underwent a major renovation when purchased by the Scientology Church. The structure was in poor condition, and we were engaged to repair paneling and doors. Electrical upgrades and new locks had left holes and damage, which we carefully restored. Some rimu and oak paneling was stripped, stained, and French polished to revive its original elegance.
Walnut Fire Surround, Private Residence, Kohimarama
We were commissioned to finish a new fireplace to match existing walnut paneling. The surround, constructed from pine and MDF, was transformed with a burr walnut finish, creating a striking and seamless integration with the home’s interior.
Royal Palace “Noordeinde” Den Haag the Netherlands
Johan van Westen was part of a team of three decorative painters task with the restoration of special finishes, such as gold leafed details on joinery mirrors and frames and the marbling of walls and columns.