Refinishing and restoring Broyhill Brasilia furniture is a rewarding project for vintage enthusiasts, but it requires careful attention to detail and craftsmanship. To begin, it's crucial to identify an authentic piece. Broyhill Brasilia furniture was part of a mid-century modern collection produced by Broyhill Furniture Industries from the 1960s to the 1970s. Here's a step-by-step guide on both identifying and restoring this iconic furniture:
Identifying Authentic Broyhill Brasilia Furniture:
To ensure you're working with an authentic piece of Broyhill Brasilia furniture, look for the following characteristics:
Design Elements: Broyhill Brasilia pieces are known for their distinctive mid-century modern design, characterized by clean lines, organic curves, and Danish-inspired craftsmanship.
Broyhill Brasilia Room Divider
Wood Type: Authentic pieces are typically constructed from walnut, known for its rich, warm tone and attractive grain patterns.
Drawer Pulls: Brasilia furniture often features unique brass drawer pulls with a sculptural, angular design resembling a bowtie or butterfly.
Labels or Markings: Look for labels or markings on the underside or inside drawers. Authentic pieces may have a gold and black label indicating "Broyhill Brasilia."
Quality Construction: Brasilia furniture is well-made, so check for dovetail joints, sturdy construction, and quality craftsmanship.
Broyhill Brasilia Chína Cabinet
Assess the Condition:
Before starting the restoration process, assess the furniture's condition. Look for scratches, dents, watermarks, or other damage. Take note of any missing or damaged hardware.
Gather Your Tools and Materials:
You'll need various tools and supplies for the restoration, including sandpaper (various grits), wood filler, wood glue, clamps, screwdrivers, paint stripper (if necessary), paintbrushes, and finishing materials like varnish or lacquer.
Strip the Existing Finish:
Highboy dresser
If your piece has a damaged or unsightly finish, you may need to strip it down to the bare wood. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the paint stripper you choose, and be sure to work in a well-ventilated area.
Repair Any Damage:
Fill in scratches, dents, or gouges with wood filler. Allow it to dry, then sand the surface until smooth. Replace any missing hardware or drawer pulls with authentic or closely matching pieces.
Gentlemen's Chest
Sanding and Preparing:
Sand the entire piece starting with a coarse grit and progressing to finer grits. This process will smooth the surface and prepare it for finishing.
Stain or Finish:
Apply a wood stain if needed to achieve the desired color or simply apply a clear finish to protect the wood. Ensure even coverage and follow the manufacturer's recommendations for drying times between coats.
Final Assembly:
Reassemble the piece once the finish is fully dry. Ensure that all drawers and doors function smoothly.
Maintenance:
To maintain the beauty of your restored Broyhill Brasilia furniture, periodically clean it with a gentle wood cleaner and protect it from direct sunlight and excessive humidity.
Enjoy Your Restored Piece:
Once your Broyhill Brasilia furniture is fully restored, it will be a stylish addition to your home, and you can take pride in preserving a piece of mid-century modern history.
Remember, patience and attention to detail are key when restoring Broyhill Brasilia furniture. By following these steps and taking the time to identify an authentic piece, you can bring new life to a classic mid-century modern treasure.
The name "Broyhill" refers to the company, Broyhill Furniture Industries, which was founded by Thomas H. Broyhill in 1926 in Lenoir, North Carolina, USA. Thomas H. Broyhill was a prominent figure in the furniture industry.
FAQ Section:
Does Broyhill make quality furniture?
Does Broyhill products come with a warranty?
Where is Broyhill furniture manufactured?
Does Broyhill make quality furniture?
Broyhill Furniture has been known for producing furniture of varying quality levels. The perception of quality can depend on the specific collection or line of furniture within the Broyhill brand.
They have offered a range of products, from more affordable and mass-produced furniture to higher-end and better-crafted pieces. It's advisable to research and read reviews for the specific Broyhill product you're interested in to gauge its quality.
Does Broyhill products come with a warranty?
Yes, Broyhill typically offers warranties on their furniture products, but the terms and length of warranties can vary depending on the product and the retailer.
It's essential to check the warranty details provided by the retailer or on the Broyhill Furniture website when purchasing a specific item. Warranties often cover manufacturing defects and workmanship issues, but the specifics can differ, so it's important to understand the terms.
Where is Broyhill furniture manufactured?
Broyhill Furniture, at least traditionally, manufactured a significant portion of its furniture in the United States. They had manufacturing facilities in North Carolina, where the company was founded.
However, like many furniture manufacturers, they may have expanded their production or sourcing to other regions or countries to meet market demands.
The manufacturing location can vary depending on the specific product and collection. To know the origin of a particular Broyhill piece, it's best to inquire with the retailer or check product labels and documentation.
If you're considering purchasing Broyhill furniture, I recommend visiting the Broyhill Furniture website or contacting a Broyhill retailer for the most up-to-date information regarding product quality, warranties, and manufacturing locations.
Broyhill Brasilia is a line of furniture produced by Broyhill Furniture Industries during the mid-20th century. Broyhill Brasilia is best known for its iconic mid-century modern design, characterized by the following features:
Distinctive Design: Broyhill Brasilia furniture is celebrated for its clean lines, organic curves, and Danish-inspired craftsmanship. It embodies the mid-century modern design ethos, which prioritizes simplicity, functionality, and a connection to nature.
Use of Walnut: Authentic Broyhill Brasilia pieces are typically crafted from walnut wood, known for its rich, warm tone and attractive grain patterns.
Unique Hardware: The collection often features distinctive brass drawer pulls with a sculptural, angular design resembling a bowtie or butterfly.
Inspiration from Brazil: The name "Brasilia" is a reference to the Brasilia Cathedral in Brazil, and the collection draws design inspiration from Brazilian architecture and nature.
Some of the most famous and sought-after pieces from the Broyhill Brasilia collection include dining tables, credenzas, dressers, and nightstands. These pieces have become iconic symbols of mid-century modern design and are highly coveted by collectors and enthusiasts.
It's important to note that there isn't an individual named "Mr. Brasilia" associated with this furniture collection. The name "Broyhill Brasilia" simply refers to the line of furniture created by Broyhill Furniture Industries during the mid-20th century.
Here's a brief description of each of the Broyhill Brasilia items along with some historical context, typical dimensions, materials used, and information on price, replicas, and collectibility. Please note that prices and collectibility can vary widely depending on factors like condition, rarity, and market demand.
Room Divider:
Description: The Broyhill Brasilia room divider is a stunning mid-century modern piece designed to separate spaces while adding a touch of elegance. It often features geometric patterns and sculptural woodwork.
History: Introduced in the mid-1960s as part of the Brasilia collection.
Dimensions: Approximate dimensions vary, but it's typically around 72-84 inches in height and 48-60 inches in width.
Materials: Crafted from walnut wood, showcasing the collection's signature warm tones and intricate detailing.
Price: Prices for authentic Broyhill Brasilia room dividers can range from $1,000 to $3,000 or more, depending on condition and rarity.
Replicas: Replica room dividers inspired by Broyhill Brasilia designs are available, often at lower price points.
China Cabinet:
Description: The Broyhill Brasilia china cabinet is an elegant storage and display piece with glass-fronted doors, often featuring the collection's distinctive design elements.
History: Part of the original Brasilia collection from the 1960s.
Dimensions: Typical dimensions are approximately 50-70 inches in width, 15-18 inches in depth, and 72-78 inches in height.
Materials: Crafted from walnut with brass accents and glass panels.
Price: Authentic Broyhill Brasilia china cabinets can range from $1,500 to $4,000 or more, depending on condition and rarity.
Replicas: Reproductions influenced by Broyhill Brasilia designs are available at various price points.
Credenza Hutch:
Description: The Broyhill Brasilia credenza hutch is a versatile storage piece with distinctive design features, often used in dining or living areas.
History: Part of the original Brasilia collection.
Dimensions: Typically around 60-72 inches in width, 18-20 inches in depth, and 40-48 inches in height.
Materials: Crafted from walnut wood with sculpted details.
Price: Authentic Broyhill Brasilia credenza hutches can range from $800 to $2,500 or more, depending on condition and rarity.
Replicas: Reproductions influenced by Broyhill Brasilia designs are available.
Gentleman's Chest:
Description: The Broyhill Brasilia gentleman's chest is a tall, stylish storage piece with ample drawers and the collection's characteristic design elements.
History: Part of the original Brasilia collection.
Dimensions: Typically around 40-48 inches in width, 18-20 inches in depth, and 56-64 inches in height.
Materials: Crafted from walnut wood with sculpted detailing.
Price: Authentic Broyhill Brasilia gentleman's chests can range from $1,200 to $3,500 or more, depending on condition and rarity.
Replicas: Reproductions influenced by Broyhill Brasilia designs may be available.
Lowboy Dresser:
Description: The Broyhill Brasilia lowboy dresser is a horizontal storage piece with drawers and distinctive design elements.
History: Part of the original Brasilia collection.
Dimensions: Typically around 60-72 inches in width, 18-20 inches in depth, and 28-32 inches in height.
Materials: Crafted from walnut wood with sculpted accents.
Price: Authentic Broyhill Brasilia lowboy dressers can range from $1,000 to $3,000 or more, depending on condition and rarity.
Replicas: Reproductions influenced by Broyhill Brasilia designs are available at various price points.
Highboy Dresser:
Description: The Broyhill Brasilia highboy dresser is a tall, vertical storage piece with drawers and the collection's iconic design features.
History: Part of the original Brasilia collection.
Dimensions: Typically around 36-42 inches in width, 18-20 inches in depth, and 48-56 inches in height.
Materials: Crafted from walnut wood with sculpted details.
Price: Authentic Broyhill Brasilia highboy dressers can range from $1,000 to $3,500 or more, depending on condition and rarity.
Replicas: Reproductions inspired by Broyhill Brasilia designs may be available.
Broyhill Brasilia furniture pieces are highly collectible due to their timeless mid-century modern design. Prices and availability can fluctuate, so it's essential to research specific pieces and consider their condition when assessing their value and collectibility.
Mid-Century Queen Headboard:
Description: A mid-century queen headboard typically features clean lines, minimalistic design, and may be constructed from various woods, including teak or walnut, often showcasing the era's signature design elements.
Dimensions: Dimensions can vary, but a queen headboard is typically around 60 inches in width and 30-40 inches in height.
Materials: Common materials include wood (e.g., teak or walnut) or upholstered designs in fabrics like tweed or vinyl.
Price: The price of a mid-century queen headboard can vary widely based on factors such as design, condition, and rarity. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars for high-end designer pieces.
Table Leaf:
Description: A table leaf is an extension piece that can be added to a dining table to increase its seating capacity. It's commonly used with mid-century dining tables.
Dimensions: The size of a table leaf can vary significantly depending on the table it's designed for. It typically matches the width and shape of the table.
Materials: Table leaves are typically made from the same wood as the dining table and may have a matching finish.
Price: The price of a table leaf depends on the table it's designed for and its condition. It's usually a part of a dining set, and prices can vary accordingly.
RCA Console:
Description: An RCA console typically refers to a vintage piece of furniture that combines a radio and record player within a wooden cabinet.
It was a popular entertainment piece in mid-century households.
Dimensions: Dimensions can vary widely depending on the specific model, but RCA consoles are often large, featuring a radio and a turntable with built-in speakers.
Materials: The cabinet is typically made of wood, and the electronic components are encased within it.
Price: Prices for vintage RCA consoles can vary based on factors like condition, model, and rarity. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars for well-preserved models.
9-Drawer Dresser:
Description: A 9-drawer dresser is a piece of bedroom furniture with nine drawers, providing ample storage space. It can feature mid-century design elements such as tapered legs and sleek handles.
Dimensions: Dimensions can vary, but a typical 9-drawer dresser is around 60-72 inches in width, 18-20 inches in depth, and 30-36 inches in height.
Materials: These dressers are often made from wood, including teak, walnut, or oak, and may have minimalist or sculpted details.
Price: The price of a 9-drawer mid-century dresser depends on factors like wood type, design, and condition.
Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars for high-end designer pieces.
These mid-century furniture pieces are popular among collectors and enthusiasts for their timeless design and craftsmanship. Prices can vary widely based on factors such as condition, rarity, and specific designers or brands associated with the pieces.
Premiere Dresser:
Description: The Premiere dresser is a mid-century modern dresser known for its sleek and minimalist design. It typically features clean lines, simple drawer pulls, and a focus on functionality.
Dimensions: Dimensions can vary, but a typical mid-century Premiere dresser is around 60-72 inches in width, 18-20 inches in depth, and 30-36 inches in height.
Materials: It's often crafted from wood, such as walnut or teak, and may have a smooth, polished finish.
Price: Prices for a mid-century Premiere dresser can vary depending on factors like condition, wood type, and design. They can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars for high-end vintage pieces.
Twin Headboard:
Description: A twin headboard for a bed is a smaller-sized headboard designed for a twin-sized mattress. In the mid-century modern style, it may feature minimalist or geometric design elements.
Dimensions: Twin headboards typically measure around 40-44 inches in width and 30-36 inches in height.
Materials: Materials can vary but often include wood or upholstered designs with mid-century design aesthetics.
Price: Prices for mid-century twin headboards can vary widely based on factors like design, materials, and condition. They can range from a hundred dollars to several hundred dollars for vintage pieces.
Cathedral Coffee Table:
Description: A Cathedral coffee table often refers to a mid-century modern coffee table with a distinctive geometric or architectural design. It may have tapered legs and unique shapes reminiscent of cathedral windows.
Dimensions: Dimensions can vary, but a typical mid-century Cathedral coffee table is around 40-48 inches in length and 18-22 inches in width.
Materials: These tables are often crafted from wood, with tabletops showcasing interesting grain patterns.
Price: Prices for mid-century Cathedral coffee tables can vary depending on factors like design, wood type, and condition. They can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars for well-preserved pieces.
These mid-century furniture pieces share the era's design principles of simplicity, functionality, and an emphasis on craftsmanship. Prices for vintage pieces can vary widely, so it's important to consider factors such as condition and design when assessing their value.
Kent Coffey Perspecta and Broyhill Brasilia are two iconic mid-century modern furniture collections that capture the essence of this design era.
Each collection has its unique characteristics and appeal, making them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts. Here's a comparison of Kent Coffey Perspecta and Broyhill Brasilia:
Kent Coffey Perspecta:
Designer and History:
Kent Coffey Perspecta is the creation of Kent Coffey Furniture Company, an American furniture manufacturer. The collection was designed in the 1960s.
Design Aesthetics:
Kent Coffey Perspecta is known for its elegant and refined design. It features a blend of mid-century modern and Scandinavian design elements. The collection often incorporates sleek, tapered legs, distinctive drawer pulls, and sculptural detailing.
Materials:
The collection predominantly uses walnut wood for its construction. Walnut's warm tones and attractive grain patterns are a hallmark of Kent Coffey Perspecta.
Pieces:
Kent Coffey Perspecta includes various furniture pieces such as dressers, nightstands, dining tables, and more. The collection offers a cohesive design language across these pieces.
Collectibility and Price:
Kent Coffey Perspecta pieces are highly collectible and can command significant prices, especially for well-preserved and rare items. Prices can range from hundreds to several thousand dollars per piece, depending on factors like rarity and condition.
Broyhill Brasilia:
Designer and History:
Broyhill Brasilia is part of the Broyhill Furniture Industries collection, introduced in the mid-20th century. It was not designed by an individual named Brasilia but was inspired by the Brasilia Cathedral in Brazil.
Design Aesthetics:
Broyhill Brasilia is renowned for its striking mid-century modern design. It embraces clean lines, organic curves, and Danish-inspired craftsmanship. The collection features distinctive brass drawer pulls and showcases the beauty of walnut wood.
Materials:
Walnut wood is the primary material used in crafting Broyhill Brasilia furniture. This choice of wood adds warmth and character to the pieces.
Pieces:
Broyhill Brasilia includes a wide range of furniture pieces, including dining tables, credenzas, coffee tables, and more. Each piece carries the collection's iconic design elements.
Collectibility and Price:
Broyhill Brasilia is highly collectible and commands strong prices in the vintage furniture market. Prices can vary widely depending on the specific piece, its condition, and its rarity. Authentic Broyhill Brasilia pieces can range from hundreds to several thousand dollars each.
In summary, both Kent Coffey Perspecta and Broyhill Brasilia are celebrated mid-century modern furniture collections known for their distinct design aesthetics and craftsmanship.
The choice between them often comes down to personal style preferences and the specific pieces collectors are seeking to complete their mid-century modern interior. Both collections represent the timeless appeal of mid-century design.
The Broyhill Brasilia collection embodies a unique set of design principles, a meticulous process, and a philosophy that made it a celebrated and influential representation of mid-century modern design.
The extent of Broyhill's design influence reached far and wide, leaving an indelible mark on the world of furniture and interior design.
Design Principles:
Clean Lines and Simplicity: At the core of Broyhill Brasilia's design principles is a commitment to clean lines and simplicity.
The collection shuns ornate detailing and extraneous ornamentation, favoring a minimalist approach. The result is a sense of uncluttered elegance that defines mid-century modern aesthetics.
Organic Inspiration: Broyhill Brasilia takes inspiration from nature, particularly the Brasilia Cathedral in Brazil. The collection's organic curves and forms reflect the grace and beauty of natural elements. The use of these organic shapes brings a sense of harmony and balance to each piece.
Wood as a Hero: The choice of materials is crucial in Broyhill Brasilia's design philosophy. Walnut wood, with its warm and inviting tones, is the hero of this collection. The wood's rich grain patterns are celebrated, and careful craftsmanship highlights its natural beauty.
Functionalism: Mid-century modern design, including Broyhill Brasilia, places a high value on functionality. Each piece in the collection is designed with a purpose, often serving as both a functional piece of furniture and a work of art.
Whether it's a dining table, dresser, or coffee table, utility is seamlessly integrated into the design.
Attention to Detail: Broyhill Brasilia's design philosophy demands meticulous attention to detail.
From the sculpted drawer pulls that resemble butterfly wings to the precision of the woodwork, every aspect of the collection is carefully considered. This attention to detail elevates the craftsmanship of each piece.
Design Process:
Broyhill's design process for the Brasilia collection involved several key steps:
Inspiration: The inspiration for Broyhill Brasilia came from the Brasilia Cathedral in Brazil, designed by the renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer. The cathedral's sweeping curves and innovative architecture served as the starting point for the collection's design.
Sketching and Planning: Designers and craftsmen at Broyhill translated their inspiration into detailed sketches and plans. These initial drawings laid the foundation for the collection's distinct aesthetic.
Material Selection: The choice of walnut wood was a pivotal decision. Broyhill's designers recognized that walnut's warmth and grain patterns would be central to capturing the essence of mid-century modern design.
Prototyping and Testing: Prototypes of furniture pieces were meticulously crafted to ensure that they met the design criteria for clean lines, organic forms, and functionality. These prototypes underwent rigorous testing and refinement.
Craftsmanship: Broyhill Brasilia pieces were handcrafted by skilled artisans who honed their craft over years. The intricate detailing, dovetail joints, and fine finishes required exceptional craftsmanship.
Production: Once the designs were finalized and prototypes approved, production of the Broyhill Brasilia collection began. Each piece was carefully crafted, paying close attention to the design principles and philosophy.
Design Influence:
The influence of Broyhill Brasilia extends far beyond its original production:
Iconic Status: Broyhill Brasilia achieved iconic status in the mid-century modern design world. Its aesthetic became synonymous with the era, and today, it remains highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.
Inspiration for Contemporary Design: The clean lines, minimalist aesthetic, and use of natural materials seen in Broyhill Brasilia continue to influence contemporary furniture and interior design. Many modern designers draw inspiration from mid-century modern principles.
Collectibility: Broyhill Brasilia pieces are considered valuable collectibles. Their continued popularity in the vintage furniture market underscores their enduring appeal.
Preservation of Mid-Century Heritage: Broyhill Brasilia, along with other mid-century modern designs, has played a role in preserving the heritage of mid-20th-century design. It reminds us of an era marked by innovation, optimism, and a fresh approach to living spaces.
Broyhill Brasilia collection's design principles emphasize clean lines, organic inspiration, functionalism, and attention to detail. Its design process involved careful planning, material selection, and craftsmanship.
The influence of Broyhill Brasilia has been profound, shaping mid-century modern design aesthetics and continuing to inspire contemporary designers. Its iconic status and collectibility reflect the enduring appeal of mid-century modern principles in the world of furniture and interior design.
The Broyhill Brasilia collection stands as one of the greatest contributions to the mid-century modern movement and has had a profound impact, enduring influence, and lasting legacy on the design world. Its significance extends beyond its function as furniture; it represents a distinctive era of design that has left an indelible mark on the way we view and interact with our living spaces.
Greatest Contribution:
One of the Broyhill Brasilia collection's most significant contributions to the mid-century modern movement is its embodiment of the core principles of this design era. It distilled the essence of mid-century modernism into tangible, functional pieces of furniture.
The collection's greatest contribution lies in its ability to encapsulate the spirit of the mid-20th century's design revolution, characterized by:
Innovation: Broyhill Brasilia's innovative design, with its clean lines, organic forms, and use of materials like walnut wood, represented a break from traditional design. It captured the era's forward-looking spirit.
Functionalism: The collection was designed with functionality in mind. Each piece seamlessly integrated utility with aesthetics, a defining characteristic of mid-century modernism.
Minimalism: Broyhill Brasilia exemplified the minimalist approach to design, eliminating unnecessary ornamentation and embracing simplicity. This minimalism contributed to the collection's timeless appeal.
Integration of Nature: Inspired by the Brasilia Cathedral in Brazil, the collection integrated natural, organic forms into its design, fostering a connection with the environment.
Impact:
The impact of Broyhill Brasilia on the mid-century modern movement was far-reaching and continues to resonate today:
Iconic Status: Broyhill Brasilia achieved iconic status within the mid-century modern design world. Its designs remain highly recognizable and celebrated as quintessential examples of the era.
Popularization of Mid-Century Modernism: The collection played a crucial role in popularizing mid-century modern design principles, making them accessible to a broader audience.
Architectural Influence: Broyhill Brasilia's design was not limited to furniture; its influence extended to architecture and interior design, inspiring spaces that embraced the same principles.
Collectibility: Broyhill Brasilia pieces are highly collectible today, underscoring their enduring appeal. Collectors and enthusiasts seek out these iconic designs, driving interest and demand.
Influence:
The influence of Broyhill Brasilia transcends the confines of its time:
Contemporary Design: Broyhill Brasilia's clean lines, use of natural materials, and minimalist approach continue to influence contemporary furniture and interior design. Many modern designers draw inspiration from these mid-century modern principles.
Sustainability: The collection's emphasis on quality craftsmanship and the use of durable materials like walnut wood aligns with the sustainability movement in design, encouraging the appreciation and preservation of well-made, long-lasting pieces.
Mid-Century Revival: Broyhill Brasilia played a part in the mid-century modern revival of the late 20th century. As interest in mid-century design resurged, it became a touchstone for designers and homeowners seeking to incorporate mid-century elements into their spaces.
Legacy:
The legacy of Broyhill Brasilia extends to multiple facets of the design world:
Preservation of Design Heritage: Broyhill Brasilia, along with other mid-century modern designs, has contributed to the preservation of the design heritage of the mid-20th century. It serves as a reminder of an era marked by innovation, optimism, and a fresh approach to living spaces.
Education and Inspiration: The collection continues to educate and inspire designers, historians, and enthusiasts alike. It offers a tangible reference point for studying and appreciating mid-century modernism.
Continued Production: While the original Broyhill Brasilia collection is no longer in production, its influence has led to the creation of contemporary pieces inspired by its design aesthetics. This ensures that its legacy endures through modern reinterpretations.
In conclusion, the Broyhill Brasilia collection's greatest contribution to the mid-century modern movement and the design world as a whole lies in its embodiment of the era's design principles and its ability to capture the essence of a transformative period in design history.
Its impact, influence, and legacy continue to shape the way we approach design, emphasizing the enduring appeal of clean lines, minimalism, and the integration of nature into our living spaces.
As a timeless icon of mid-century modernism, Broyhill Brasilia remains a testament to the power of design to transcend its time and inspire generations to come.
