Welcome to Gordon's Restoration

My name is Gordon Forster, and for over 50 years I have dedicated my life to the restoration, repair and polishing of fine furniture. From my earliest days as a trainee in the renowned William Tillman workshops in Borough Green, I have always held a deep respect for the craftsmanship and artistry behind every piece of furniture.

Today, from my home and workshops in Westwell, near Ashford in Kent, I continue to offer my experience and skill to those who, like me, value the beauty, history and character of antique and reproduction furniture.

I began my career in furniture making and polishing during the 1970s, when I was fortunate enough to train at the Tillman workshops. William Tillman was celebrated worldwide for his reproduction furniture, with pieces sold through Harrods, Peter Jones, and Maples. His work was of such exceptional quality that it won the British Furniture Manufacturers’ Showpiece of the Year award six times.

At Tillman’s, I learnt to appreciate the natural beauty of wood and to combine this appreciation with the principles of sound design and traditional craftsmanship. Over the years, I progressed to become foreman of the polishing shop, where I was responsible for quality control and overseeing both manufacturing and restoration. Many of the pieces I worked on at that time went on to be prize winners and highly sought after by collectors.

I have also had the privilege of working on commissions for royalty, embassies, and celebrities, which gave me a real appreciation of how treasured fine furniture can be. Now, having come out of retirement, I am once again pleased to share my knowledge and skills with those who care deeply for their furniture.

My Approach to Furniture Restoration

To me, restoration is not the same as repair. Repairing an item might simply make it functional again, but restoration goes far deeper. Proper restoration involves bringing back the original beauty and splendour of a piece, while preserving the marks and character it has gained through its passage in life.

This work requires more than technical skill—it requires sensitivity, patience and an affinity with both the material and the design. Whether I am removing a scratch from a polished surface, rebuilding broken parts, or completely refinishing a piece with traditional French polishing, I always strive to keep the essence of the furniture intact.

I believe that furniture does not have to be old to be valuable. Many fine-quality reproduction and bespoke pieces give as much joy to their owners as antiques from earlier periods. My goal is always to ensure that every piece I work on—whether antique, reproduction, or a modern bespoke commission—can be cherished for years to come.

When I am not in my workshop, I can often be found at home in Westwell, a peaceful village near Ashford in Kent. Here I enjoy spending time with Bob, my faithful dog, who has been my companion for many years. Bob is a constant presence in my life and often keeps me company while I work. Just as I take pride in caring for furniture, I take great comfort in his loyalty and companionship—it reminds me that life, like furniture, is enriched by the bonds we keep and the stories we preserve.