Episode 9: An Antidote to Fast Furniture with Trefler Restoration
Since 1921, Trefler Restoration has focused on the maintenance and longevity of historic and sentimental objects for individuals and institutions alike. While their priority of maintaining as much of an original piece remains, they've branched out into creative ways of thinking about reuse and modification for future generations.
Head Furniture Conservator, Bernard Murphy, and Projects Manager, Allison Cook, talk to Roxy about the potential extended life to be found in used and loved antique furniture. In the conservation world we're familiar with the concept that many objects live lives well beyond their makers or primary owners. Compare this to the "Fast Food Furniture" of today which is easily accessible but often not meant to last more than one household's use. In this age of over consumption and mass production, Bernard argues that there's a place for "reincarnation of furniture" and how it can lead to not only a less wasteful existence for objects but a fuller appreciation for craftsmanship and the quality of materials.