Restoring a Mid-Century Icon: 
The Dillingham Esprit Highboy

There’s something special about the Dillingham Esprit line. Designed by Milo Baughman, these pieces are famous for their bold black accents and stunning walnut grain. But after sixty years of use, even a masterpiece starts to show its age. This particular highboy dresser came into my Dallas workshop needing more than just a facelift—it needed a total revival.

Beyond the Surface: The Restoration Process

Most "pro" refinishers stop at a fresh coat of lacquer. To do this piece justice, I had to go much deeper:

Stripping to Raw Wood: I took the entire piece down to the raw walnut to remove decades of failing finish and ambering. This is the only way to ensure the new finish looks factory-fresh rather than "re-done."

Veneer Replacement: The original top veneer was beyond saving. I sourced a matching walnut veneer and performed a full replacement, ensuring the grain transition was seamless and period-accurate.

Mechanical Overhaul: A dresser is only as good as its drawers. I replaced the old, worn-out drawer guides, so this 1960s beauty now glides as smoothly as a modern luxury piece.

Why Restoration Matters in DFW

In a world of "disposable" furniture, these Mid-Century Modern pieces are an investment. By taking the time to fix the structural issues and the veneer, we aren't just making it look pretty for a photo—we’re ensuring it stays in the family for another sixty years.

The client was thrilled to see the rich, deep tones of the walnut return, and more importantly, they can actually use the drawers again without a fight.

Have a vintage piece that needs more than just a "quick fix"? From Lakewood to Plano, I help Dallas homeowners preserve their history. Text me a photo of your project and let’s get it back to its original glory.