Please provide us with the following information when submitting an inquiry, and someone from the Trefler’s team will help you determine the next steps.
Please describe your item(s) in as much detail as possible. Information such as dimensions, what materials the item is made of (i.e. wood, plaster, porcelain), and your item’s current condition are all very helpful for our experts to make an accurate estimate.
We suggest providing at least three .jpg images per item. These should include; one image of the entire object, and detailed views of the area(s) of damage and/or pieces.
If you are submitting an inquiry for painting restoration, please provide an additional photograph of the back of the canvas.
Our team will review all inquiries and assess the best course of action to suit your needs.
We look forward to hearing from you.
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3529The restoration of the George Frisbie Hoar bookcases
Recently Trefler’s restoration was chosen to restore 7 eight foot tall wooden bookcases belonging to a Metro West resident. As the project unfolded, Trefler’s was able to bring the bookcases back to their original state and in addition, learned more about the history of the bookcases, as well as about the family themselves. A fascinating story and restoration process emerged.
The eight foot tall classically influenced bookcases and card catalogue restored by Trefler’s originally belonged to George Frisbie Hoar, an American attorney and politician. He was a member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives (1852-1853), a Massachusetts State Senator (1857-1858), a member of the U.S. House of Representatives (1869-1877) and represented Massachusetts for 27 years in the U.S. Senate from 1877 until his death in 1904. From his 1904 eulogy in the Congressional Record an excerpt read “To see Senator Hoar among his books in his own library was to see him at his best.”
The bookcases traveled from Hoar’s residence in Worcester, MA to Washington D.C. and most recently to the residence of his great-great grandson in Metrowest Boston. In recent years, these unique classical pieces sustained both water and transit-related damages. Trefler’s was commissioned to reverse these damages in order to restore the bookcases to their former glory. Founded in 1921, Trefler’s specializes in fine art and antique restoration with a focus on maintaining the integrity of fine and applied artworks through the preservation of original materials and finishes. All of our work is completed by hand by trained artists and conservators.
For this set of 7 bookcases built with classical architectural influences, Trefler’s focused on fabricating missing sections of the dentils which decorate the crown molding and fabricating capitals which sit atop the columns separating each bookcase. Further restoration included finish conservation which blended areas of color and finish loss. We also secured the joints of the bases, back panels, and all existing architectural elements. After repairing and leveling the plinths of each section, we refit each door to operate smoothly. Fabrication included duplication of separating columns, crown molding, architectural scrolls, trim moldings, and finally frame and panel side sections.
This extensive project highlights Trefler’s aptitude for design, traditional craftsmanship, and historically appropriate attention to detail. The bookcases have been delivered, installed and secured in the client’s home library and the shelves now display the family’s extensive collection of books, many of which were also inherited from Senator Hoar.
3421Did you know?
Trefler’s was featured in the Boston Design Guide!
THE VALUE OF RESTORATION
FEBRUARY 8, 2024 | MADDIE BRISBANE
There is something to be said for preserving the past for future generations. Many homeowners are discovering a renewed appreciation for timeless older furnishings and decor, encouraging a shift back to the value found in the exceptional craftsmanship of the past.
Since 1921, Trefler’s has been the go-to resource in the world of restoration, with a highly-skilled and passionate team that can really do it all. Embracing a hands-on approach, nearly everything at Trefler’s is done by hand, emphasizing the importance of individual attention, detail, and care. From sentimental heirlooms to intriguing antique finds, the variety of treasures that Trefler’s can expertly revive, refinish, and repurpose is vast.
(This large antique olive jar was repaired and restored by Trefler’s. Reassembling the 11 broken pieces required the jar to be filled and sanded along the breaks, and color matched as closely to the original as possible.)
Though it might be tempting to buy new, restoring older furniture and decor is an eco-friendly alternative. Opting for restoration over buying new can reduce waste and conserve resources. Repurposing existing items minimizes the demand for new materials and reduces the environmental impact associated with manufacturing, transportation, and disposal.
(Before and after: A gorgeous desk, once hazy, water damaged, and ridden with crazing is restored, with its original finish cleaned and conserved.)
Trefler’s restoration repertoire covers furniture, decorative arts, books, metal, paintings, frames, works on paper, upholstery, chandeliers, and more. Their processes blend traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology to breathe new life into cherished possessions. “We recognize that each piece entrusted to us is an investment for the client, and we do not take that lightly,” says Laura Sheehan, Vice President and 23-year veteran of Trefler’s. “We are committed to delivering a high-end product that respects the history and integrity of the original.”
Choosing to restore also provides a unique opportunity for customization and personalization. Whether it be refinishing, repainting, or reupholstering, Trefler’s process includes working with clients to tailor the piece to their personal styles and preferences. “From our small team of 12 staff dedicated to their craft, our goal is to align with the client’s vision while offering insight on optimal treatments and custom projects,” Sheehan explains.
(Before, during, and after: Painting restoration is another service offered by Trefler’s, in addition to custom framing services. Here is a peek into the process of a painting being cleaned.)
Beyond traditional furniture restoration, their expertise includes reassembling furniture, reattaching parts, fabricating missing elements, and tackling cosmetic issues such as stripping, refinishing, and addressing water damage. Customers have the option to bring their projects directly to Trefler’s for estimates, or a Trefler’s expert can go to them on site. Trefler’s also provides assistance for claims; for example, if a piece is exposed to fire, soot, water, or mold they can also help to restore it.
“We like the challenge of turning something that may have seen better days or is no longer functional, and transform it into something amazing,” Sheehan shares. “It’s rewarding.”
(Before and after: Designed to better fit a breakfast nook, this 4-legged table was transformed into a pedestal table. The newly designed base was color matched to blend seamlessly with the original piece.)
Through a blend of traditional craftsmanship, adaptability, and a deep appreciation for history, the services at Trefler’s serve as a promising alternative to the over-consumption of mass-produced furnishings and decor. By placing a premium on conserving and reviving the prized and precious items that define our past, homeowners can blaze a new trail in shaping a future full of character and quality.
3340Did you know?
Trefler’s featuresProtective Enclosures for Books
Trefler’s book conservator can help you protect your favorite book with a book enclosure, which provides structural support and protection from the environment.
This could be appropriate for valuable books and/or books that hold special meaning for you. Book enclosures are made to precisely fit the dimensions of the book after exact measurements.
Our book conservator recommends a drop spine box, (sometimes called a clam shell box). This is an attractive presentation which can be customized with various covering materials (book cloth, paper, etc.). This can also be customized to hold other materials.
Call us at 617.965.3388 for more information.
3279Did you know?
Trefler’s offers in-home inspections of your items in need of restoration.
It can be daunting to think through the logistics of bringing your art and antiques into a studio for assessment. Luckily, Trefler’s is always available to come directly to you for a professional inspection of your items. We will take detailed notes about the condition of the piece(s), along with your goals and concerns. We follow up shortly after with a comprehensive report, describing our observations, the current condition of the piece(s), a restoration plan, and estimated cost and timeline. And, if your possessions should experience damage due to a fire, flood or move, Trefler’s is your go-to inspection company. We will work with you and your insurance company/public adjuster, to provide detailed reports on a timely basis, assessing your pieces to determine how we can best restore/repair them.
Call us at 617.965.3388 for more information.
3239Did you know?
Trefler’s Pick up and Delivery Services ~
Did you know that Trefler’s offers pick up and delivery services?
Did you know that Trefler’s has a fully staffed and ready to schedule fee-based pick up and delivery service? Our pick up and delivery crew arrives at your residence ready to pack and transport any items that need our restoration services – pieces that are too large or heavy to move yourself or multiple pieces of furniture and artwork. We carefully pack your pieces for transport and our van is fully equipped for every job. Items are carefully tagged and entered into our inventory system upon arrival at our studios. Once your restoration work is completed, our delivery team are on the scene again to return your pieces to you so you can enjoy them for many years to come.
Call us at 617.965.3388 for more information.
3231Did you know?
Trefler’s Custom Upholstery Services ~
Did you know that Trefler’s offers custom upholstery services?
We re-upholster your favorite pieces and provide related services including upholstery restoration, cushion replacement, pillow fabrication & rebuilding of seats (webbing, springs & padding). Our upholsterers are industry experts with many years of experience in the field. Clients may source their own fabrics and trims, or, we have a wide range of fabrics, trims, gimps, decorative accents and price points available. We can do structural and finish work on your pieces, making us a one stop shop for your re-upholstery and restoration needs.
