What was wrong

This antique oak sideboard is a serious piece of furniture — ten drawers, two burled doors, and the kind of presence that commands a full wall.
The main issue was the top surface, which had taken years of water damage and finish failure. White patches, cloudy marks, and worn areas had spread across most of the top, while the rest of the piece was still absolutely worth saving.

What we did

• Full surface restoration of the damaged top where water exposure had broken down the finish.
• Complete refinish in a warm, deep reddish tone across the top, all ten drawer faces, both cabinet doors, and the bracket feet.
• Brass hardware removed, cleaned, and reinstalled so the original fittings could complement the restored wood properly.
• Burled oak door panels revived so the natural swirl, movement, and depth of the grain became visible again.
• Final color and sheen balancing across the entire piece for a unified, finished presentation.

Care tips

• Use coasters, felt pads, and runners to protect the top from water and daily wear.
• Wipe spills promptly; do not let standing moisture sit on the surface.
• Dust with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid harsh chemical cleaners or silicone polishes.
• Open drawers and doors gently and keep hardware clean and dry.
• If the top begins to dull or show new wear, book maintenance early.