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About us
Family owned and operated since 1969. Our antique workmanship is so historically accurate, we've been hired by museums in the past. At Classic Furniture Works, your valuable family heirlooms will be loved the same way we love our own furniture.
Business highlights
56 years of experience
Services we offer
Antique Restoration. Furniture- Repair & Refinishing. Caning & Rushing. Painted Pieces. Pet Damage., Custom-Built Furniture
Amenities
Free Estimates
Yes
Accepted Payment Methods
- CreditCard
Reviews
4.951 Reviews
| Number of Stars | Image of Distribution | Number of Ratings |
|---|---|---|
| 96% | ||
| 2% | ||
| 0% | ||
| 0% | ||
| 2% |
Showing 1-25 of 51 reviews
Doris A.
Mar 2017
Very well.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thanks!!! I'm really happy that you're happy! Thank you again for your repeat business, as I very much appreciate it. I'll have the table done very soon. Thanks again for sharing your experience with others!"
Charles P.
Feb 2017
We were very relaxed regarding the time frame -- it was more important to us that the job be done right rather than quickly. Mike kept us informed, stuck to his original quote (though I have a feeling this took more work than he let on)
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"I really appreciate your willingness to leave feedback on us. Thank you as well for your business, and for the opportunity to work on such a special piece. I'm looking forward to any future projects we can work with you on!"
Annetta H.
Dec 2016
Their work is excellent. It was done quickly and satisfactorily, and was reasonably priced.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thanks! I'm glad you liked the results. That is a beautiful desk, and I'm glad it's happier now!"
Pam L.
Nov 2016
They did an awesome job restoring and rebuilding our antique bed. I highly recommend them. They were so pleasant to deal with and picked it up and returned it to me in a month, even rebuilt missing pieces and turned a double bed into a queen size bed. Since it was my grandparents and parents bed, quality was what I was looking for since it is a family heirloom.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thank you so much for the kind words! That was a very exciting project. Keep us in mind next time!"
Ilya L.
Aug 2016
About six months after the job was done, the veneer on the tabletop developed large bubbles. It also cracked in several places. The upper half of the tabletop warped and, as a result, there was a 3/4" gap between between the two halves of the folding tabletop. A company representative wrote: "We are 100% confident that the new damage to your table has been caused by a combination of moisture and temperature change(s)/variation(s)" and that this is a "case of a natural material acting in the arbitrary ways it sometimes does." I could only wonder why this particular damage occurred only after the table was handled by Lauer Furniture Restoration but never before during the 16 years the item had been in my possession. Since the table was delivered, there have not been any out-of-the-ordinary fluctuations in the seasonal climatic patterns of Washington, D.C. Nor were there any unusual changes in moisture and temperature conditions at my apartment building. If Lauer Furniture Restoration could not guarantee that their workmanship could not withstand these normal moisture and temperature conditions you should have so advised the customer before undertaking to do the repair. The company offered to re-do the job - for an additional fee on top of $785 that it had received six months earlier. I preferred not to throw good money after bad.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"This member hired us to fix some veneer damage on a table. When we got to their home to pick up the table, it was located next to a radiator, and we advised the member that this was likely the cause of the problem, combined with varying levels of relative humidity. We repaired the damage and returned the table to the member. The member was extremely satisfied with the outcome. 6 months later, the member contacted me to report that there was veneer damage, and that is was bubbling up. The member sent us pictures of the bubbling veneer and it was clear but comparing the original photos (at the time we were originally hired) to the new photos, that the damage was not in the same location, and that where we made our repairs, the area was still intact. Glue does not just fail. Wood glue will stay bonded for 200 years in some cases. This new veneer damage was likely caused by putting the table near the radiator, again, as we advised against. The member demanded a full refund or for us to fix the table at no charge. We offered to come out to their home and assess any damage in the areas which we repaired, but as the member explained, the damage was not in those areas, it was in other areas of the table - areas which were fine before we fixed the table, and fine after we delivered it, as no repairs needed to be performed in those areas. We respectfully refused to repair new damage free of charge. We likened it to calling a plumber to fix a leak under your kitchen sink, and 6 months later, the bathroom sink develops a leak - that is not the plumber's responsibility to fix free of charge. As such, in our example, we don't warranty an entire piece of wood furniture (especially if it is placed in front of a heater), if all we repaired was one section of it. We tried to be fair with the member, spending hours communicating with them through either email or telephone conversation, but ultimately, they threatened to leave us a bad review on Angie's List if we didn't refund them. Soon after, they left us an F review. Our reputation on Angie's List precedes, and for the record (with Angie's List), we've been at this since 1969, and have never, not even once, had a similar problem with a customer, or a piece of furniture. This damage was inflicted by the customer, and we are finished dealing with it."
Gabrielle P.
Jul 2016
Wonderful.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"I'm glad you liked the work! Thank you very much for leaving us a review, and we're certainly looking forward to future projects with you!"
Walter S.
Jul 2016
unknown
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thanks for the review! We very much appreciate your business, and we're looking forward to working with you again!"
Linda B.
May 2016
unknown
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thanks! This was our second time working together, and I'm hoping to have more opportunities in the future!"
Gina M.
Mar 2016
unknown
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thank you! I remember that table - it was a Butcher Block Maple table from Williams Sonoma. I'm glad you like the results and I hope to take on your future projects - thanks again!"
Elana F.
Feb 2016
I've used Mike Dowell's services before and this was another great job. This time my young son had accidentally broken an arm off one of our dining room chairs. Mike fixed it quickly and at a fair price. I dropped off the chair and picked it up at his shop. I don't know anything about wood working or carpentry, but the place was neat, clean, and very well organized. It's an unassuming place and easy to miss -- it's actually a unit within a corrugated metal mobile container in a corner of a recently developed townhouse/ condo development in a corner of Bel Aire on an edge with a state park (state forest?). If you go up some of the back roads coming from Baltimore it's actually a quite pretty drive for some of it - it follows a stream through park and farm land.
In any case, I anticipate calling on Lauer Furniture Restoration again in the future.
In any case, I anticipate calling on Lauer Furniture Restoration again in the future.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thank you very much! We appreciate your kind words and willingness to take a minute and share your thoughts. I'm looking forward to future projects. Thanks again!"
John M.
Jan 2016
Mike was great to work with. The job took longer than expected but that was due to the chairs needing a bit more attention than initially thought.
The cost should have been more but even tho I offered Mike addt'l $ he refused. Said a deal was a deal.
He was great and we will go to him again for any furniture repair needs!!
The cost should have been more but even tho I offered Mike addt'l $ he refused. Said a deal was a deal.
He was great and we will go to him again for any furniture repair needs!!
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thanks! I very much appreciate your business, and the time you took to leave a review for us. I'm looking forward to working with you in the future. Thanks again!"
Susan L.
Nov 2015
unknown
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thanks! We really appreciate your business, and I'm glad these pieces came out to your satisfaction. Thank you again for your kind words!"
DIANE S.
Oct 2015
Very easy to communicate with. I sent a picture and my wants/ their suggestions went back and forth. The finished product is very well done. Very professional job.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Well I'm glad you like it! That was a fun project and I hope we can work together again at some point in the future. Thanks again for your business and kind words!"
MBlair S.
Sep 2015
I?m so happy that I found Lauer Furniture Restoration via Angie?s list.
I purchased a big deal coupon in hopes of cleaning up an old, hardwood, sentimental table that had seen better days.
I spoke with Mike regarding my table and sent him photos of the table?s cracked legs and damaged top. We discussed what he thought would be his approach from the photos and Mike performed a more detailed review upon seeing the table in person. The table had multiple wood types and Mike explained how he was going to remove the damage from the top of the table and match the most prominent coloring. I was just delighted that this old table could be saved. The work was completed well in advance of the targeted due date and Mike was super accommodating as to my schedule and when I could come pick up the table. The table looks amazing and better than I anticipated! This old table has new life and will now be proudly displayed rather than sitting covered up in my basement. I had lots of questions as to how to care for the table going forward and in regards other old furniture pieces that I have. Mike was super helpful and patiently answered all of my questions. The Bel Air, MD location is easy to access with plenty of parking. I wish I could post photos to show the before and after, truly amazing. A top notch operation- Mike is personal, professional and a very talented craftsman!
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thank you!!! It's wonderful to be given a chance to fix a piece which is so special to you. Very neat history too - explaining why it was 100% Mahogany. Thank you again!"
Stephanie H.
Aug 2015
We were not able to get there during their normal open hours but Mike was more than accommodating by coming into the shop on his day off . He listened carefully to what we wanted and did a beautiful restoration of our game table.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thanks! I always try to accommodate other folks' schedules. I'm glad you liked our work!"
Marilyn D.
Jul 2015
I originally contacted Lauer to have the wooden feet and hand rests on my 60-year old channel-back chair repaired. One of the feet was broken and I was able to provide the piece that had come off. After speaking with them, and learning that they also could do re-caning, I added the two Windsor chairs to the project.
I wasn't aware initially that I would have to bring the chairs to their shop, which was about an hour away, but I was able to get a neighbor with a truck to make the trip with me. They do offer pick-up and deliery for an additional charge. Mike Dowell, a member of the Lauer family, was very easy and pleasant to work with. I was immediately impressed with the work that I saw in progress in his shop. He estimated the cost for the jobs and told me about how long it would take to get them done. The caning work was done at another location by another member of the Lauer family. When I returned to pick up the chairs I was delighted with the quality of the work and will definitely have them do some other projects that I have in mind.
I wasn't aware initially that I would have to bring the chairs to their shop, which was about an hour away, but I was able to get a neighbor with a truck to make the trip with me. They do offer pick-up and deliery for an additional charge. Mike Dowell, a member of the Lauer family, was very easy and pleasant to work with. I was immediately impressed with the work that I saw in progress in his shop. He estimated the cost for the jobs and told me about how long it would take to get them done. The caning work was done at another location by another member of the Lauer family. When I returned to pick up the chairs I was delighted with the quality of the work and will definitely have them do some other projects that I have in mind.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thanks! I really appreciate you taking the time to share your experience - and I'm glad it was a positive one. Please consider us in the future for any projects you might have. Thanks again!"
Karen R.
Jun 2015
Most of paint/varnish was removed, excellent job gluing and making new rocker. Finish was a little darker than sample I was shown. They were professional and finished the project on time.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Glad you liked it! Coloring wood is an art all it's own, but it's never an easy task. It's difficult to get 100% of old paint off wood surfaces when the piece is being stripped by hand. Dipping furniture generally gets it like brand new and completely clean, but it's very bad for the wood and joints, which is why we never dip pieces, we only strip by hand - the old fashioned way. Leftover residues, paint, etc can have an effect on coloring but I still try my best to get the tone perfect. Unfortunately, when I show my customers a sample board, it's generally on a clean board. So, I guess what I'm trying to convey is that results are more predictable on brand new wood, such as new cabinets for your kitchen. Once you factor in 100+ year old wood, and multiple coats of paint and old varnish, the results become less predictable. In the end, I'm glad you like it, and I hope it looks wonderful in the room you placed it. That is a really neat little rocker. Thanks again!"
Shelly M.
Jun 2015
very accommodating
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thank you for your review! I'm glad everything pleased you- this is what we are going for every time! Please consider us in the future for your projects - Thanks again!"
GARY D.
Jun 2015
Mike did a great job. The work was done with quality and craftsmanship. Mike was clear and up front with what could be done and what could not be done to correct the issues I had with this piece of furniture.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thanks! I really appreciate being chosen for this project and I'm hoping in the future, you'll consider me as well."
Esther S.
May 2015
It went well. Mike was very nice to work with. No one would know any damage had been done to the table. I think there is a difference between the repair and restoration of an antique. The restoration I believe is more expensive. I miss the variation and character of the old veneer. But I would have had to pay much more for the restoration for that kind of detail. Right now the surface looks more like a new ethan allen deep red mahogany piece. To sum it up he did exactly what he said he would do and it looks good and we're very happy with it.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thank you! I'm very appreciate of your business. Please give me a call if you have any projects in the future - Thanks again!"
Patricia H.
May 2015
see above
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thank you very much for your business and for your review! I'm glad you are happy and I hope we can work together in the future on some other projects! Thanks again!"
Van W.
May 2015
unknown
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thank you for your business! We very much appreciate you giving our shop a shot and we're looking forward to any future projects you might have. Thank you again!"
PHOEBE G.
May 2015
unknown
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thank you for your business! I'm glad we pleased you on all counts and I hope you're enjoying your table - thanks again!"
Susan F.
May 2015
We delivered the chairs to his shop and Mike gave me a very detailed quote to repair them. I had to think about it but there was no pressure to make a decision. Once I decided, they were finished very quickly and the quality of the repairs is great. You cannot even tell where they were broken. It is so nice to have solid chairs to sit on again. Mike was also very accommodating about his schedule, allowing me to pick them up on Saturday morning.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"I'm glad I was able to meet your satisfaction! We are a quality-first business, and it's nice to see broken/unusable pieces fixed correctly and appreciated. Hoping to take more projects for you - Thank you again for your business!"
ELIZABETHc L.
May 2015
Incredibly responsive to email queries and provided fair pricing, including pick-up and delivery of the piece. The work was beautiful and perfectly done. Work was completed in a timely manner. I will definitely be using this business again.
Response from Classic Furniture Works
"Thank you! I'm really glad your whole experience met your expectations. I'm looking forward to our next project with you - thanks again for your business!"
Licensing
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FAQ
Classic Furniture Works is currently rated 4.9 overall out of 5.
Classic Furniture Works accepts the following forms of payment: CreditCard
Yes, Classic Furniture Works offers free project estimates.
No, Classic Furniture Works does not offer eco-friendly accreditations.
No, Classic Furniture Works does not offer a senior discount.
No, Classic Furniture Works does not offer emergency services.
No, Classic Furniture Works does not offer warranties.