Melbourne Design Week 2024: Preserving the Past

Presented in partnership with Edwin Fox, Richard Lloyd and Abbotsford Convent, as part of Melbourne Design Week 2024.

Through a series of workshops, Preserving the Past invites participants to delve into the world of furniture restoration amidst the incredible heritage of this iconic landmark.  

Over three days, Edwin y Richard will offer five 3-hour workshops providing an in-depth insight into the methods, skills and practices employed in the restoration industry. You’ll learn a comprehensive approach to restoring and revitalising your mid-century furniture in a thorough, step by step process. 

Whether you’re curious about the restoration process, looking to enhance your existing skills, or simply passionate about mid-century furniture — this event is for you. All skill levels, from beginners to seasoned enthusiasts, are welcome. 

Join us for a truly unique experience.  

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Edwin Fox 

Edwin is a multidisciplinary skilled restorer and artisan, with a long history of education in Fine Art, and a First Class Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Graphic Communication. Edwin also has a National Vocational Qualification (NVQ) in traditional upholstery. More recently Edwin has channeled his skills and energy into the physical aspects of design, whereby his career has now evolved into the restoration of furniture. 

Edwin currently runs a small independent business restoring and selling furniture and lighting here in Melbourne. His work is centred around the importance of sustainability, reducing waste while working with incredible items of our past. 

Edwin has been involved with the NGV’s Melbourne Design Week for the past four years. He has collaborated previously with Eclectic Boogaloo Upholstery, the Robin Boyd Foundation and is an active partner with mid-century heritage group, Beaumaris Modern. Edwin wishes to further his pursuit en teaching a larger audience the importance of repair and reuse.  

Richard Lloyd 

Richard’s journey from a collector and enthusiast of mid-century furniture to a professional restorer showcases his passion for preserving and revitalising iconic pieces from the past. Based in Northcote, Melbourne, Richard’s commitment to eco-friendly restoration sets him apart in the industry. 

With a focus on eliminating harmful chemicals from traditional restoration processes, Richard’s workshop offers exclusive eco-friendly refinishing services. His dedication to sustainability not only benefits the environment but also ensures a safer and healthier approach to furniture restoration. 

Collaborating with various partners in the mid-century industry, Richard combines expertise and resources to achieve the best results for each project. His desire to make tired pieces functional and attractive again reflects his understanding of the historical and aesthetic significance of mid-century furniture. 

Accesibilidad

En Escuela Industrial es accesible en silla de ruedas.  

Melbourne Design Week and the Victorian Design Program are initiatives of the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria.