Antique furniture carries a certain magic—handcrafted details, timeless materials, and the charm of a piece that has lived many lives. But just because something is antique doesn’t mean it has to stay frozen in time. At Le Chateau, we believe in honoring the integrity of each piece while also tailoring it to your space, your style, and your lifestyle.

The key is knowing what to change, what to preserve, and how to strike the perfect balance between historic character and personal expression

First, here’s what you should preserve

Before we talk customization, let’s start with what should stay. The craftsmanship and proportions of antique pieces are part of what make them special. Solid wood construction, hand-cut joints, aged patina—these are not things to cover up, but to celebrate.

If you’re unsure what’s historically significant, we can help assess the piece and recommend what to protect and what to enhance.

What You Can Change — and Why It Works

1. Paint and Finish

Many antique pieces come in darker or more yellowed finishes that may not suit modern interiors. A fresh coat of paint or custom refinishing can completely transform a piece while preserving its character.

Try this:

• Soft neutrals or chalky whites for a Gustavian look
  
  
• Rich, moody tones to highlight carvings
  
  
• Gilded accents to elevate a French frame
  
  

Our refinishing process is always done by hand with an eye toward preserving the age and texture of the wood beneath.

2. Hardware

Changing out hardware is one of the simplest ways to update a piece. Whether you want a more minimal look or something with a little shine, swapping knobs and pulls can add personality without damaging the structure.

We recommend:

• Antique-inspired brass for warmth
  
  
• Crystal or porcelain for vintage charm
  
  
• Aged iron for contrast in modern spaces
  
  

3. Upholstery

Reupholstering is where antique customization truly shines. Updating the fabric on a settee, chair, or bench allows you to marry historic frames with modern sensibilities. Whether you prefer Belgian linen, velvet, or performance fabric, the options are endless.

Consider customizing:

• French bergeres and fauteuils
  
  
• Swedish barrel-back chairs
  
  
• Tufted benches or daybeds
  
  
• Dining sets and headboards
  
  

And yes—we offer COM (Customer’s Own Material) options for those who want to bring their own vision to life.

4. Configuration & Use

Antique pieces were often built for very specific functions—but that doesn’t mean they can’t be reimagined.

Think creatively:

• Turn a pair of nightstands into a dresser
  
  
• Repurpose a sideboard as a bathroom sink base
  
  
• Use a petite French desk as a bedside table
  
  
• Transform a farm table into a kitchen island
  
  

Customization Without Compromise

The beauty of customizing antique furniture lies in the ability to honor the past while making it functional for the present. 

Our team at Le Chateau approaches every piece with care, ensuring any updates are done thoughtfully, professionally, and in keeping with the spirit of the original design.

Let Us Customize Your Next Heirloom