In an era where sustainable practices and timeless design are more valued than ever, a new generation of furniture makers is drawing inspiration from the masters of mid-century modern design. At the forefront of this revival is Covesmore Solutions, a Sydney-based furniture refurbishment company led by CEO Dan Hurditch. With a rich heritage tracing back to the iconic Parker Furniture, Covesmore Solutions is not only preserving the past but also shaping the future of Australian furniture design.
Covesmore Solutions is built on a foundation of expertise and tradition. Many of its staff are former Parker Furniture craftsmen, bringing decades of experience and an unparalleled understanding of quality and craftsmanship. “A lot of our staff used to work for Parker Furniture and Tony Parker is an ambassador for us and regularly comes in and gives us advice,” says Dan.
Founded by Tony’s Parker’s father Jack in Sydney in 1935, Parker furniture became a household name in Australia, particularly for its mid-century modern designs in the 1960’s and 70’s. “Jack started the business but Tony was the reason it exploded. He studied design in London and brought all that knowledge back to Australia. Each decade brought something different, but the most sought-after Parker designs are from the 60’s and 70’s – that typical mid-century look,” says Dan.
The resurgence of interest in mid-century modern furniture is not just about nostalgia; younger generations are drawn to the timeless aesthetics and enduring quality of these pieces too. “Parker furniture is timeless and iconic. Furniture now isn’t built for quality, comfort and looking good. They do one but not all three. You can get a beautiful-looking chair, but it will fall apart,” says Dan who explains that the best furniture you can buy will be produced by a local maker who is fully invested in the piece and uses quality, long-wearing materials.
Covesmore Solutions’ commitment to sustainability is evident in their meticulous restoration techniques. “The most important thing about what we do is that we save things from going into landfill,” says Dan. The restoration process involves stripping the furniture back to the bare frame and rebuilding it with premium quality materials. “Properly restored, these pieces can last far longer than new, mass-produced furniture,” says Dan.
Despite the growing demand for high-quality, restored furniture, Dan acknowledges the challenges in attracting young talent to the trade. “It’s very hard to get young guys coming through in this trade. Not many people do upholstery, polishing, or furniture restoration these days. We have a few apprentices, but TAFE doesn’t really teach furniture restoration well,” says Dan who plans on introducing a furniture restoration academy to ensure the trade is passed down the generations.
This initiative is crucial for preserving the skills and knowledge that make high-quality furniture restoration possible. “Many of our ex-Parker guys have over 40 years of experience and started with the company as teenage apprentices. Our oldest upholsterer is 78. He’s a real master,” says Dan.
As more people, both young and old, discover the value and beauty of mid-century modern furniture, the legacy of Parker Furniture continues to thrive. And if you’re looking to invest in pieces with lasting value, Hurditch suggests seeking out specific Parker designs through platforms like Facebook Marketplace. “Look for pieces from the 60’s and 70’s if you are looking for that typical mid-century look. Iconic designs include the 107 dining chair and the 160 series lounge suite are good ones to look for. But we sell restored pieces from time to time also.”
