At Archer Furniture, we take great pride in our ability to replicate furniture for historical properties and exhibits with a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that is unmatched in the industry.
Archer Furniture is proud of our ability to replicate furniture for historical properties and exhibits with our experience and attention to detail.
We approach each project with a commitment to creating bespoke furniture that not only replicated the original pieces accurately but also captured the essence and spirit of the historical era in which they belonged.
Our team of skilled craftsmen and artisans have produced beautiful handcrafted bespoke furniture that has been praised for its authenticity and quality. By combining our expertise in traditional woodworking techniques with our knowledge of historical design styles, we have been able to create furniture that seamlessly blends into its historical surroundings, enhancing the overall aesthetic and atmosphere of the properties and exhibits in which they are placed.
Rochester Castle, a remarkable stone keep from the 12th century, stands proudly on the banks of the River Medway. Its establishment followed the Norman Conquest, marking an important historical milestone.
Archer Furniture was commissioned to create authentic seating that would provide much-needed respite for visitors who have climbed the numerous steps to reach the battlements. The King’s bench, constructed from solid Oak, draws inspiration from the Romanesque Arches prevalent in the Castle’s architectural design. Similarly, the Guards bench, also crafted from solid Oak, boasts a simpler yet sturdy construction that harmonises with the fortification’s surroundings.
Both benches are strategically placed within the castle’s upper walkways, affording impressive panoramic views. In addition to these remarkable furnishings, Oak Altars have been reproduced based on the 12th Century Altar found at Beaumaris Church.
Our commissioned work can be found in the King’s Chapel at Rochester, openly displayed with a centre piece crucifix. This historical exhibit at Rochester Castle showcases interactive furniture, allowing visitors to engage with the rich history and heritage of this iconic landmark.
Portland Castle, a historical artillery fort commissioned by King Henry VIII, was built on the Isle of Portland in Dorset between the years 1539 and 1541.
Archer Furniture was specifically tasked with the recreation of the Medieval Kitchen within the castle. The furniturepieces were meticulously crafted using solid native Ash and Oak, and served as integral components of the interactive experience aimed at faithfully replicating the functioning kitchen of that era.
The assortment of items included a Trestle table, a Barrel stillage, and a wall-mounted spice and utensil shelf. These meticulously designed and historically accurate furniture pieces played a crucial role in bringing the Medieval Kitchen to life within the castle, allowing visitors to engage with and immerse themselves in the rich historical context of the time period.
Deal Castle, located in Kent, was built by Henry VIII as an artillery fort between 1539 and 1540.
Within the castle, there are various sections, including a chapel that remains in use today by the Burma Star Association. This association commemorates the brave individuals who served in the Burma campaign during the Second World War.
To enhance the chapel’s privacy while still allowing visitors to appreciate its historical significance, Archer Furniture was commissioned to construct an Oak barrier. This barrier, designed with a subtle religious aesthetic, serves a functional purpose by safeguarding the sacred area. Simultaneously, it ensures accessibility to the castle and its rich history. The chapel barrier was meticulously crafted to mirror the curved structure of the castle walls. Its design embodies a modest and understated religious motif, while also incorporating an access gate leading to the altar. This functional piece of furniture enhances the historical and interactive experience within Deal Castle’s chapel.
Dover Castle, located in Dover, Kent, England, is a medieval fortress of great historical significance. It holds the prestigious Grade I listing and was established in the 11th century. Throughout history, it has been hailed as the “Key to England” due to its crucial defensive role.
In 2009, English Heritage embarked on the Great Tower project, recreating the Great Tower to King Henry II, opulent 12th-century interior. This involved meticulous research by English Heritage, as well as the dedicated efforts of approximately 140 skilled artists and craftsmen.
These talented individuals dedicated countless hours to the creation of 80 pieces of furniture, 21 oak doors, 140 meters of wall hangings, numerous embroidered textiles, 47 cushions, and over 1,000 other objects.
Dover Castle stands as a captivating historical landmark that offers an immersive and interactive experience for visitors. It showcases an exquisite collection of furniture, meticulously crafted to recreate the grandeur of the castle’s past.
Archer Furniture continues to work alongside the English Heritage, has been a called upon to replicate, replace and repair the exhibit pieces created.
Norwich Castle, a medieval royal fortress in the city of Norwich, was built after the Norman Conquest of England in the 11th Century, as ordered by William the Conqueror. It served as a prison from 1220 to 1887 and later became the home of Norwich Museum in 1894.
Archer Furniture has been commissioned to create various pieces of furniture for the Castle, specifically for the interactive exhibits in the historical section.
One of the notable pieces is the Oak Armoire, which is made from solid Oak and provides valuable storage for the visitor exhibit. Our skilled Blacksmith handcrafted the iron strap work hinges and cleverly concealed a modern lock to maintain the piece’s visual consistency. The vibrant colours were meticulously hand-painted, with English Heritage matching the pigments to the scarce 11th Century sources available.
The storage chest, made of solid Oak, is strategically placed within the Keep, serving as a key feature. However, one of the most important aspects of this piece is its suitability for visitor exhibits, particularly for school trips. We designed the chest to be fully lockable and equipped it with
pullout drawers to store arts and crafts supplies.
Our work with museums, historical homes, and heritage sites has been widely praised for its attention to detail and historical accuracy.
Are you looking to create or restore heritage furniture with historical significance? Contact Archer Furniture today, and let our expert craftsmen help you preserve or recreate a piece of history. Submit an online enquiry, or book a personal callback today….
Please note, due to the nature of our work, in-person visits are by appointment only. Thank you.
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