Bringing Ercol Back to Life: How Attika Restores Iconic British Furniture

There’s something unmistakable about an Ercol piece. The sculpted beech frames, the steam‑bent curves, the lightness of form — these are the hallmarks of one of Britain’s most beloved furniture makers. But even the best‑crafted furniture needs care after decades of use. At Attika, we specialise in expert Ercol restoration, giving these timeless designs the attention they deserve and helping them live beautifully for generations to come.

Why Ercol Restoration Matters

Ercol furniture was built to last, but age, sunlight, and everyday wear can take their toll. Original finishes fade, joints loosen, and cushions lose their shape. Many pieces arrive at our workshop with incredible potential hidden beneath tired varnish or outdated upholstery. Our job is to reveal the craftsmanship that’s always been there.

Restoring Ercol isn’t just about making something look new — it’s about honouring the maker’s original intent while ensuring the piece fits seamlessly into modern homes.

Our Specialist Ercol Restoration Service

1. Full Frame Refinishing

Ercol’s beech and elm frames are known for their beautiful grain and warm tones. Over time, old lacquer can yellow or crack. We carefully strip the original finish by hand, preserving the wood beneath, then apply a fresh, durable finish that enhances the natural colour without compromising authenticity.

What we restore:

• Ercol 203 and 204 armchairs

• Windsor dining chairs

• Daybeds and sofas

• Coffee tables and sideboards

2. Structural Repairs & Joint Tightening

Ercol’s construction is famously strong, but decades of movement can loosen joints. We re‑glue, clamp, and reinforce where needed, ensuring the piece is as sturdy as the day it left the factory.

3. Cushion Replacement & Upholstery

Many Ercol models originally came with foam cushions that degrade over time. We offer:

• High‑quality replacement foam

• Custom‑made cushion sets

• Upholstery in modern or period‑appropriate fabrics

• Options for customers who want a faithful restoration or a contemporary update

4. Colour Matching & Finish Restoration

Whether you want to maintain the original blonde Ercol look or match a darker finish, we use professional colour‑matching techniques to achieve a seamless result. Our finishes are durable, low‑VOC, and chosen to complement the natural beauty of the wood.

Why Choose Attika for Ercol Restoration

At Attika, we’ve spent years working with vintage Ercol, from rare early pieces to the iconic mid‑century models collectors love. Our approach is slow, careful, and respectful — no shortcuts, no harsh chemicals, no machine sanding that risks damaging the wood.

We understand the nuances of Ercol’s construction, the subtleties of its finishes, and the importance of preserving its design integrity. Every piece that leaves our workshop is restored with longevity, beauty, and authenticity in mind.

A Sustainable Way to Furnish Your Home

Restoring Ercol isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s a sustainable choice. Instead of buying new, you’re investing in craftsmanship that already exists — and often surpasses the quality of modern mass‑produced furniture.

By choosing restoration, you’re keeping materials in use, reducing waste, and supporting a circular approach to interior design.

Thinking About Restoring Your Ercol Piece?

Whether you’ve inherited a well‑loved armchair, found a Windsor chair in need of TLC, or want to revive a full dining set, we’re here to help. Our workshop in Brighton welcomes Ercol pieces of all ages and conditions.