Integrating Collectible Design Restorations, Consulting, Abstract Art, and Educational Expertise into Tailored Solutions.
Delivering Solutions Through Trust, Creativity, and Expertise
Step into a realm where tradition meets innovation—Austin Kerr’s Miami studio, a sanctuary where cherished items are meticulously revitalized and new creations come to life. Here, artistry and expertise converge to breathe new vitality into timeless treasures.
Whether it’s reviving a family heirloom, preserving a coveted collectible, or exploring the depths of design through educational courses, you’re not just restoring objects—you’re preserving history.
Brands I’m Proud to work with
Aspen Design Conference 2025
Is Repair the Most Radical Design Act of Our Time?
What I Do
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Austin Kerr is not only a master restorer but also a committed educator in the field of design materials. His online course offers an in-depth exploration of functional and aesthetic material use, tailored for professionals, hobbyists, and DIY enthusiasts. Available on both desktop and mobile platforms, the course provides a flexible learning environment where Austin shares his expert knowledge.
In his online teachings, Austin focuses on the practical application of materials, explaining the scenarios in which he uses specific substances and the reasons behind these choices. He also highlights common mistakes and materials to avoid, ensuring that learners can navigate their own projects more effectively. Austin’s course stresses the importance of selecting the right materials to avoid waste, delays, and poor-quality results, helping to extend the life and beauty of each piece. This approach not only saves money but also enhances the overall success and longevity of restoration projects.
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Austin Kerr’s introduction to the world of design restoration began not in a classroom, but amidst the sawdust and scents of his family’s furniture manufacturing business. By the young age of six, he was already honing his craft, applying antique reproduction finishes under the guidance of seasoned craftspeople. This early exposure to the nuances of woodwork and finish set the stage for a lifelong pursuit of restoration excellence.
After over a decade of refining his skills and deepening his knowledge within the family business, Austin moved to Miami, where he is currently based, in 2009 to establish his own venture. There, he specialized in offering custom finishes on furniture and millwork, catering to a discerning clientele that appreciated his meticulous attention to detail and innovative approach. His reputation for excellence soon expanded beyond bespoke furniture finishes, propelling him into the realm of collectible design restoration.
Today, Austin is a celebrated figure in the field, known especially for his work with Design Miami, the world’s premier collectible design fair, where he serves as the official restorer. His contributions there have not only solidified his reputation for precision and integrity but have also highlighted his unique talent for rejuvenating invaluable pieces. Austin masterfully preserves the historical essence and patina of each piece, ensuring they retain their time-earned character while being restored to their former glory.
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Austin Kerr's artistic journey extends beyond restoration; he is also a revered creator, weaving the spiritual and material into his art. His works are not just seen but deeply experienced, featured in exhibitions across the United States and abroad. Each piece transforms its space into a sanctuary for contemplation, inviting viewers to connect with deeper truths about humanity and history.
His art provokes a silent yet profound dialogue between creator and observer, exploring human emotion and the intricate tapestry of history through textured abstracts and bold contours. Austin's works resonate with resilience, transformation, and hope, challenging us to see beyond the surface and recognize the deeper connections that bind us.
More than just aesthetic expressions, Austin's pieces serve a dual purpose: beautifying spaces and urging viewers to reconsider their perceptions of the world. This commitment positions him not only as an artist and a restorer but as a custodian of culture, channeling historical lessons into contemporary insights. Through his art, Austin Kerr shapes not only environments but also perspectives, making each piece a profound encounter with beauty and insight.
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For those seeking tailored guidance on unique projects, Austin Kerr offers bespoke consultation services. His expertise provides detailed condition reports that assist collectors and galleries in making informed decisions about potential acquisitions or for insurance evaluations. Each consultation is personalized, offering advice on material selection and care tailored to the specific needs of the client, reflecting the unique dynamic of each relationship and project.
Austin’s commitment to white-glove service ensures that every aspect of the consultation is handled with the utmost care and professionalism, recognizing that no two projects are exactly alike. His approach is informed by a diverse portfolio that includes work with a variety of materials, from the delicate Talosel used in Line Vautrin pieces, to intricate ceramics, effective patina removal on metals, and complex wood finishes. Understanding these materials' unique demands allows Austin to not only advise but also execute the most appropriate restoration methods. This expertise ensures that each piece not only maintains but also enhances its value and beauty, underpinning the success and longevity of every project.
Connect and Collaborate
As you navigate through this site, you will uncover detailed insights into Austin’s services, catch a glimpse into his artistic process, and discover opportunities to engage with his educational offerings.
Whether you are a fellow artist, a collector, a design professional, or simply someone who appreciates the profound beauty of restored and preserved art, Austin Kerr’s world offers a unique blend of technical mastery and artistic sensitivity. We invite you to follow Austin on social media and support his work by engaging with his content; you can find all his social links in the footer below.