Alrob is one of those names that means something in Melbourne furniture history. A local manufacturer, active through the mid-century decades, they made pieces with a quiet confidence: solid construction, thoughtful proportions, details that still look considered today. When this pair came in painted white, what was underneath was exactly what you hope for.
Victorian Ash veneer is a beautiful thing to work with. Fine, straight grain with just enough variation to give it warmth. The paint had settled into every recess of those handles, and getting it out cleanly took real time: chemical stripper, careful hand tools, and a lot of patience.
The stain was planned for walnut but landed closer to teak on this timber, which turned out to be the better result. The Ash took it in a way that made the grain come forward, warm and golden. The piece was sealed with 3 coats of polyurethane top coat for a long-lasting, warm satin finish. Inside each drawer, a retro wave print liner in terracotta, navy and cream.
Gallery
