Howard & Sons is synonymous with luxury and quality
The name Howard & Sons is synonymous with luxury and quality in the world of antique furniture. Established in 1820, this British company has a rich heritage of crafting bespoke furniture, particularly renowned for its distinctive Victorian designs.
The term "Howard and Sons style" often conjures images of classic comfort, meticulous craftsmanship, and timeless elegance.
Founded by John Howard in London, England and later joined by his son George Howard, Howard & Sons quickly established a reputation for producing high-quality, custom-made furniture.
The renowned Savoy Hotel in London used Howard & Sons furniture and the company has received several Royal Warrants of Appointment.
The company became particularly well-known for its upholstered pieces – including sofas, armchairs, and stools.
The Howard family commitment to traditional craftsmanship and attention to fine details set their products apart from others, creating an enduring legacy.
In this blog, we explore the essence of Howard & Sons style Victorian furniture, its defining features, and why its antiques continue to be sought-after choices for collectors and interior designers alike.
Characteristics of Howard & Sons furniture
Designs perfectly encapsulated the Victorian aesthetic
Howard & Sons' furniture gained popularity in the Victorian era, turning the page with a period marked by an emphasis on comfort and luxury in interior design. For more on Victorian interior design check out our blog.
The company's designs perfectly encapsulated the Victorian aesthetic, blending classic styles with innovative comfort features.
Therefore the “Howard and Sons furniture style” is characterised by its impeccable craftsmanship and use of high-quality materials.
The company was known for using solid wood frames, typically made from beech or oak, which provided a sturdy foundation for their pieces. You can see an example of the style in this carved oak dinner gong in our stock.
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Another distinctive feature of Howard & Sons furniture is its upholstery. The company often used plush fabrics, such as velvet and damask, which were both luxurious and hard-wearing.
This focus on comfort was a hallmark of the Howard & Sons style and set their pieces apart from other Victorian furniture, which could sometimes be more ornate but less comfortable.
Another notable feature of Howard & Sons furniture is the attention to detail in the finishing touches.
The company was known for its finely crafted woodwork, including turned legs and elegantly shaped arms. For more on the subject, read our how-to guides on identifying antique chairs and identifying antique tables by the legs.
These elements were often complemented by subtle embellishments, such as brass casters or decorative nails, adding a touch of refinement without being overly ostentatious.
The enduring appeal of the Howard & Sons style
A Howard & Sons style piece adds a touch of sophistication and history
Howard & Sons furniture remains highly sought after by collectors and interior designers for several reasons.
- First and foremost is the quality of craftsmanship. Pieces made by Howard & Sons were built to last, with a level of attention to detail that is rare in modern furniture.
- The use of high-quality materials and traditional construction methods means that many Howard & Sons pieces have stood the test of time and are still in excellent condition today.
- Another reason for the enduring appeal of Howard & Sons furniture is its timeless design.
While the pieces are unmistakably Victorian in style, they also possess a classic elegance that transcends time periods. This makes them a versatile choice for a wide range of interior design styles, from traditional to contemporary.
Whether used as statement pieces in a modern setting or as part of a more traditional décor, a Howard & Sons style piece adds a touch of sophistication and history to any space. Here’s how to create a modern Victorian living room.
Finally, there is the heritage and prestige associated with the Howard & Sons name.
Owning a piece of Howard & Sons style furniture is not just about the item itself; it's also about being part of a long-standing tradition of quality and talented craftsmen. For many collectors, this connection to history adds an extra layer of value and meaning to their pieces.
Final thoughts: Howard & Sons furniture
Whether you're looking for a standout piece to anchor a room or a subtle addition to an eclectic collection… Howard & Sons style furniture offers a unique blend of history, craftsmanship, and timelessness.
We hope you found this article informative. For other useful guides, take a look at our other articles.
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Here at Westland London we have many different types of antiques in stock and we specialise in antique fireplaces plus accessories.
If you have any queries or would like to ask about any of the antiques for sale on our website or in our showroom, please contact us.