I was recently commissioned to make a bespoke Gentleman’s Retainer in mahogany with a full gloss lacquered finish.
Detail of the top section of the valet.
This shot shows the second bespoke detail in the valet, a combined trouser bar and clip hanger. Not something I ever imagined doing until now but in the same week another client asked about the same thing. So maybe there’s a new option coming soon…
Detail showing the trouser/skirt clip hanger in use.
Detail showing the trouser bar in use.
Detail of the shoe stand in the base.
Detail of the jacket hanger and accessory bowl.
I tend to finish the valets with an oil finish to keep the natural grain of the wood showing with just a slight satin sheen. It was hard not to love the full gloss finish on mahogany, the valets are a luxury item and this combination looks and feels like it.
The Gentleman’s Retainer can be made in most timbers as a bespoke detail. The same goes for the finish, both details are price upon application. If a client has gone to the trouble of having their room furnished with their choice of timber and finish I wouldn’t want to ruin the look with a clashing valet.
Sam Brown