Salvaged from an array of wonderful and inspiring museums these traditional pieces became redundant as archival techniques modernised.

Made by the finest Victorian joiners from precious hardwoods they can be reused as kitchen islands.

Using these items allows a quality of joinery that would be incredibly expensive if bought new.

It might not be possible to use modular modern appliances in an old cabinet but it can sometimes work; original doors can clad integrated appliances, cutting away cabinet floor can create space and additional glazed section can be replaced with marble or hardwood top.

Modern elements; mirrored glazing, fabrics etc. can visually lighten the formal look.

Our ex-museum mahogany cabinets have been carefully adapted by friend of Retrouvius, Pierre Bonnefille, to house and display sets of lunettes at French lunetier, Maison Bonnet.

Retrouvius has many mahogany museum cabinets in a variety of designs for sale.

The re-used cabinet is the first thing seen when entering the house. The use of mirror and the twinkle of glass welcomes the return home from work and a greeting to evening dinner guests. Introducing glazing to the hinged doors allows light flow.

In re-use, the introduction of modern elements: glass, fabrics etc. can balance the formal and heavy appearance of rich mahogany pieces.

What is common to all our ex museum cabinetry is the exceptional quality of joinery and craftsmanship on offer – that would otherwise be extremely expensive if bought new.

Photographs courtesy © Tom Fallon, Nicholas Hughes, Jo Bridges