126 Australian Country HOMES
pressed metal ceilings in several rooms.
The Kinnears have plans to extend Burfi eld,
but without altering its style.
“I think it will always be a work in
progress,” Sharon admits. “Old houses
constantly require maintenance and we
have big plans. We are aiming to build
a studio in the backyard in the next 12
months. I see the former garage as guest
accommodation with a revamped laundry
and we want to update the bathrooms, but
there is no rush.”
Their professional lives are changing
pace too as they prepare to wind down
their shopfront business, and concentrate
more on bespoke furniture restoration for
clients via online sales and antique fairs.
“Basically our business now is focused
around conservation of early colonial
furniture for collectors and investors,”
Brenton says. “A piece of furniture still with
its original fi nish with a beautiful patina
is what all serious collectors are seeking.
Furniture which has been well-used and
requires cabinetry work is fi ne as this can
be undertaken and executed in the 19th-
century fashion. However, a 150-year-old
fi nish cannot be replicated.”
They’ll hit the road together with their
wares and see more of Australia and more
of each other. And at the end of every road
trip, Brenton and Sharon will always have
their beloved Burfi eld House waiting to
welcome them home. ACHThis page: Sharon is adamant that a 150-year-old finish cannot be replicated and there will always be people who appreciate the patina and history of well-used furniture.