These are all words that are used in relation to antiques. But they do have some differences on the treatment that is applied.
Renovation
Renovation simply means to make a piece look like new. The object to be renovated is just a base or starting point for your imagination. The piece, materials and method of construction, historical importance, or place in time are not critical within the context of the project. The piece itself does not place restrictions on the work to be done. Often, it is the “next chapter” for the piece.
Restoration
The dictionary definition of restoration is, “a bringing back to a former position or condition.” In restoring an art object, piece of furnishing, or architecture, the most important requirement is the final appearance. The project is directed by determining the most desirable period of an object’s life; and the restorer does whatever is necessary to return the object’s appearance to that period.
Preservation
Preservation involves keeping a piece from destruction and seeing to it that it is not irredeemably altered or changed. The word preservation is most used in relation to architecture and built environments, but I believe it is just as applicable to furniture. Preserving an object places additional layers of requirements on the decisions regarding materials and methodology. In preservation, the final appearance is no longer the prime factor, but rather, retaining the maximum amount of original materials. Preservation dictates that in order to retain the maximum amount of building fabric, repairs must be done with minimal or no changes to the original and in like materials, and if possible, using the same methods as first created.
Conservation
In conservation, the absolute maximum amount of the original material, in as unaltered condition as possible, is preserved. Any repairs or additions must not remove, alter or permanently bond/cross-link to any original material. All repairs or additions must be reversible and removable without affecting the condition of the original material now, and in the future. Conserving a piece means the project dictates all choices on how it is treated. Conservation does not involve artistic choices or material experimentation on the object.
I often have these conversations with people when they ask me to “restore” their piece of furniture. It is important to have a basic understanding of these categories. It is also important to understand that the lines between these categories change with the type of object/situation involved.
Comments