One of our more memorable conservation projects was completed for St John's College, Sydney, where we were engaged to help transform the historic Great Hall, built in the 1860s, into a setting reminiscent of the dining hall at Hogwarts.
The College had initially attempted to achieve the look using the existing heritage furniture, however the original refectory tables were simply too wide to comfortably accommodate diners. Aubert Furniture was commissioned to provide a sympathetic solution that preserved the character and integrity of the furniture while improving its functionality.
All sixteen heritage refectory tables and thirty-two matching pews were carefully collected and transported to our workshop. Each table was meticulously dismantled and its width reduced before being reassembled using traditional cabinetmaking techniques. At the same time, every piece was sympathetically restored, preserving the original finish, patina and character wherever possible. The pews were also reupholstered in a heavy antique-style black leatherette, completing the period aesthetic while providing a durable, practical finish.
The completed project successfully achieved the dramatic medieval atmosphere the College was seeking, without compromising the heritage significance of the furniture. The success of the project led to Aubert Furniture being entrusted with further heritage restoration and conservation work for St John's College.
Greg Aubert
