All About Olympus


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