Austin Kerr

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It looks like a liquid shape frozen mid-motion. But this isn't a rendering... it's a real, physical desk. A mirror-polished form that reflects its environment almost too well to believe. Designed by Dutch artist @verhoeven_twins , the "Lectori Salutem" desk is constructed from 165 individually formed sheets of marine-grade stainless steel. Each one was pressed under a 20-ton machine, hand-welded, polished to a mirror finish, and assembled using over 2,600 bolts and nuts. From the outside, it reads as one seamless whole. But from behind, the structure opens up, exposing the internal architecture that holds it together. Even the side profile contains a hidden gesture: two mirrored faces, embedded in the curves. My role here wasn't restoration, it was preservation. Polished stainless doesn't stay flawless forever. Over time, humidity and oxygen interact with the surface, creating subtle oxidation. What you're seeing is a careful removal of that surface layer, no compounds, no abrasives, just a high-grade metal polish and a microfiber cloth. This kind of care is quiet, precise, and essential. Design this ambitious deserves to be maintained with intention. You can find this artists work at the @themuseumofmodernart in New York and the @centrepompidou. Follow for more insight into how collectible design is constructed and what it takes to keep it alive. #verhoeventwins #verhoeven #conservation #collectibledesign #collectibledesignrestoration #designmiami #austinkerrrestoration #officedesk #officedeskgoals #stainlesssteel #stainlessteelpolishing #sculpture 4 minutes ago

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This chandelier is more than just lighting. It is a piece of collectible design history. Model 2045 was designed in 1962 by BBPR, an Italian collective that helped shape post war modernism. Their work is bold, architectural and rare, which is why restoring this piece with the right care was so important. The finish had completely failed after decades of quick repaints. I stripped it down and gave it a proper refinish so it can be appreciated again the way it was meant to. Would you prefer seeing restorations like this in one full reel or broken into a multi part series with more detail? #collectibledesign #BBPR #italiandesign #designhistory #modernistdesign

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Nearly 90 years ago, this Gio Ponti conference table was presented at the 1936 Paris World's Fair. Featuring a celestial glass centerpiece by Fontana Arte, it carries both history and beauty. My approach wasn't to erase its past, but to carefully revive its presence, retaining every dent and scratch while restoring the finish where it truly mattered. ✨Respecting age. Preserving story. Restoring design. Thank you Atelier Achille Salvagni for trusting me with this piece 🙏 —— #GioPonti #FontanaArte #CollectibleDesign #DesignHistory #furniturerestoration @Design Miami/