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gail_dottin16

Rebuilding Heirloom Desk --Custom furniture

29 days ago
last modified: 29 days ago

Last week, while preparing my parents’ home for sale, workers took my father’s midcentury desk to the recycling center, among other cherished items, where it was crushed. He worked at that desk for over 60 years. I am destroyed. My dad was my hero. I planned to finish writing my book about our family history at that desk. I’m looking for recommendations for custom furniture builders, preferably on the East Coast (US). I need to be hands-on in the designing and building process. (Builders: I promise I won’t be a nightmare client) I can’t even look at pics of Dad’s desk now, but a combo of the links below provides an idea of what I’m aiming for. I’ll, of course, send pics to possible builders.

Links:

One

Two

Three

Comments (16)

  • 29 days ago
    last modified: 29 days ago

    You might want to contact someone local.

  • 29 days ago
    last modified: 29 days ago

    Look for a local person that does custom woodworking and cabinetry.

    I had someone build me a custom TV armoire back in 2004 when we lived in the northeast. We designed it together and I was able to see the piece a few times while it was being built. Heavy solid piece that got a good 20 years of use and moved with us several times. Only got rid of it two years ago as I wanted something different in the house we built.

  • 29 days ago
    last modified: 29 days ago

    I am so sorry for this loss. It sounds gut wrenching.

    Was his desk custom made or a piece that was sold on the market at that time? I know it is hard for you to look at pics of the desk, but if you post a pic of it here, one of us may be able to find the actual desk for you online. There are a *great* number of vintage MCM dealers who post online. Most will also pay to have it refinished if it is not in excellent condition.


    Also, what city are you located nearest to?

  • 29 days ago

    I know of some possibilities in NYC. DM me if you’d like more info.

    Gail Dottin thanked amystoller
  • 28 days ago

    Here's a pic of the desk


  • 28 days ago
    last modified: 28 days ago

    Also these:

    Hooker Mainline Option 1


    Hooker Mainline Option 2

  • 27 days ago

    I would grab that first etsy one. Custom will be way way more than that.

  • PRO
    27 days ago

    I am so sorry that someone was to very inconsiderate of your feelings. The memories of your dad are still in your heart.


    Maybe you'd consider working with a desk to generate new memories. I've been gathering info on this desk because it solves a lot of working at home issues in that closing the top conceals any work or mess and it large enough to accommodate larger computer screens. It might be a new option for you to consider.





    BTW there is a warehouse in IL that specializes in MCM furniture resale.


    https://midcenturywarehouse.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqncvhMOdGeEM-RmsREyTh96n-hvHxEz_UAXtOOQcWrpKC9kvkM


    https://midcenturywarehouse.com/desks/?stype=vintage

  • 27 days ago

    If you want to restore the original desk, I still have links to the furniture restoration places in NYC I mentioned earlier. If you're trying to re-create the desk by having someone build you a new one, that's another matter entirely, but it couldn't hurt to float the idea by the restorers.


    If you want to buy another desk like your father's, the Hooker Mainlines that others have found for you look right to me. If you are reasonably close to NYC, I know of one or two sellers of vintage furniture you could contact to see if they have one or can find one for you.


    Whatever you decide to do, you have my best wishes. I'm so sorry this happened to you!

  • 27 days ago

    The Hooker Mainline desks look VERY similar to your father's original desk.


    I am so sorry that this happened - I would be crushed.

  • 20 days ago

    Thank you all for your suggestions! I was able to snatch the desk on Etsy posted here by oldhousebuffs! I told the seller my story and he held it for me. It arrives in a couple weeks!

  • 20 days ago

    I'm so happy for you @Gail Dottin . May you use it in good health and embue it with memories of your dad.

  • 20 days ago

    That is such wonderful news! Thank you for taking time to share with all of us!

  • 20 days ago

    Gail, that is wonderful news. May it comfort and inspire you!

  • 20 days ago

    Gail - wonderful news!

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