Agree on improvements that are realistic for the material, existing condition, budget and value. A promise to make everything look new can encourage excessive intervention.
Assess the priorities
- Separate soiling, wear, colour loss and structural damage.
- Identify the three areas that matter most to the customer.
- Mark irreversible ageing and high-risk areas.
- Agree whether the aim is to preserve a natural condition or undertake broader restoration.
Build the plan
- Record the starting condition.
- Rank the desired improvements.
- Explain what can improve and what cannot be promised.
- Compare the result under the same lighting and from the same angles.
Overambitious targets can lead to excessive cleaning, heavy recolouring and covered grain. Prioritise stability, a natural appearance and continued usability.