Classic Revivals: Bringing Imagination to Life

With a legacy spanning almost 100 years, Classic Revivals has become South Africa’s benchmark for bespoke furniture and timeless design. Established in the early 1950s by brothers Attilio and Agostino Rech, who brought their cabinet-making mastery from the foothills of the Italian Dolomite Mountains, the company was built on heritage, artistry, and uncompromising craftsmanship. Today, Classic Revivals remains proudly family-run, serving an international clientele of private homeowners, luxury lodges, five-star hotels, and corporate spaces.

The family has been building churches and bridges in northern Italy and in Venice for over 400 years. The roots of Classic Revivals lie in a tradition of excellence that began with patriarch Silvio Rech, a master cabinetmaker in northern Italy. His ability to transform wood into magnificent furniture and architectural details, some of which are still found in churches in Venice today, reflected values of dedication, precision, and artistry—principles that continue to guide Classic Revivals. When Attilio and Agostino migrated to South Africa in 1951, they carried this vision with them, establishing their Johannesburg workshop in 1953. From those beginnings, the company has flourished, blending Old World craftsmanship with contemporary innovation.

What sets Classic Revivals apart is its ability to create anything a client can imagine. From reproducing antique heirlooms to designing contemporary showpieces, our artisans are trained to adapt and innovate using state-of-the-art technology with lost techniques reminiscent of the Renaissance. Whether it is a custom dining table for a private residence, a statement console for a boutique hotel, or full interior furnishings for a luxury lodge, Classic Revivals brings each vision to life with meticulous attention to detail. Clients can choose from a wide palette of materials—solid woods, marble, resin, brass, or glass—allowing every piece to be uniquely tailored.