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All About Olympus

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The Story of Olympus Furniture

British Craftsmanship with French Elegance​

If you have ever come across an ornate vintage dressing table or a delicate chest of drawers with swooping cabriole legs, intricate mouldings, and a timeless silhouette, chances are you were looking at a piece by Olympus Furniture.

While mid-century modern design was filling homes with teak and clean lines in the 1950s and 60s, Olympus was doing something delightfully different. They catered to a clientele looking for romance, luxury, and classical elegance, creating a legacy of British craftsmanship that remains hugely popular today.

 

A Heritage of Quality & High-End Retail

Founded in London, Olympus Furniture gained a stellar reputation throughout the mid-20th century for its high-quality cabinet-making. Inspired primarily by Louis XV of France and Rococo design, their signature style brought the opulence of continental antiques into mid-century British homes. 

Their pieces were sold through prestigious department stores - most notably Harrods in London - as well as high-end independent furniture retailers across the UK. Owning an Olympus bedroom suite in the 1950s, 60s, or 70s was a true statement of taste and luxury.

What Sets Olympus Apart?

Master Joinery - Built using traditional timber and solid framing, Olympus furniture was made to withstand generations of daily use. 

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Signature Finishes - Many original pieces featured soft off-white, cream, or gold-accented factory lacquer finishes, often paired with elegant glass top protectors and ornate handles. 

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Fluid Sillouettes - Distinctive serpentine fronts, gracefully curved cabriole legs, and detailed decorative moutlings defined their iconic ranges.

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Why Olympus Furniture is the Perfect Canvas for Refinishing

While many original Olympus pieces were finished in pale creams or golds, their underlying quality makes them a dream to refinish today. The solid construction, dovetailed drawers, and dramatic carved details allow these pieces to take on a completely new life when hand-painted. 

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Dramatic Transformation - Dark, moody paint colours - like deep navy, forest green, or matte black - highlight the. carved Rococo details in the way the original pale finishes never could.

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Versatility in Modern Spaces - A custom-painted Olympus piece bridges the gap between classic vintage charm and modern interior design, acting as a stunning hero piece in any bedroom or hallway. 

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Build to Last - Because Olympus pieces were built by skilled British cabinetmakers rather than mass-produced flat-pack factories, they refinish beautifully and will last for decades to come.

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Sourcing & Commissioning Your Own Olympus Piece

Whether you are looking to source an authentic vintage Olympus dressing table, tallboy, or set of bedside cabinets, I work closely with clients to locate these quality British pieces and refinish them to match your exact home interior vision. 

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