Built to last: McDonald and Hartshorne
In a world of evolving norms and everchanging trends, one thing remains… furniture. Whether buying new or digging around second-hand stores, buying high quality furniture is essential.
At McDonald and Hartshorne, the team value quality, New Zealand made furniture. “Furniture should be an investment,” says administration manager Neke McDonald. “The bones of a piece are the most important.” Solid ‘bones’ and premium materials mean furniture can be restored and passed down through generations.
Older furniture tends to have been made better, which is beneficial for restoration and reupholstery. When furniture is fully restored, it is stripped back to its bare frame, and then built back up. At McDonald and Hartshorne, this involves replacing springs and foam and carefully selecting new fabrics with one goal: to honour the original structure of the piece, while giving it new life.
Family heirlooms are older and well made, and have strong sentimental value. “Client’s restore family pieces because it’s a reminder of their past. You remember sitting there with your grandmother and your grandfather, you remember the symbolic meaning,” Neke explains. Quality furniture carries stories of homes, families, and the memories passed between them – it’s a privilege to restore pieces decades on.
When shopping for furniture, feel for a solid frame and look for timeless designs. Invest in New Zealand-made furniture at McDonald and Hartshorne’s online showroom. From bedside tables and headboards to tallboys and dressers, you’ll find a plethora of furniture opportunity.
Choosing well-made furniture is not only sustainable, but ensures that pieces remain functional and beautiful for years to come.
