Vintage G-Plan
The G-Plan brand was launched in the 50s. It defined modern furniture from the 50s to the 70s. In those days 'G-Plan' was a generic term for modern furniture in the way we still use 'Hoover' for vacuum cleaners. G-Plan was not cheap, but it was the brand most people aspired to own.
After many years of neglect a new generation is discovering G-Plan again. Vintage pieces are commanding high prices. People are finding that furniture from the 50s and 60s and particularly G-Plan, was better made than antique furniture and looks stunning in a modern setting.
Topics
G-Plan pieces
G-Plan brand history
G-Plan was the brainchild of Donald Gomme. The family firm, E Gomme, had made traditional style furniture since the Victorian age. In 1952 he brought the firm up-to-date when he launched G-Plan. G-Plan combined modern style, a national brand name and a clever concept - interchangeable furniture.
Before G-Plan, furniture was only available in suites for the bedroom, dining room or living room. G-Plan changed furniture buying forever. Now people could buy as much or as little G-Plan as they wanted. They could buy one coffee table or a complete G-Plan look for the whole house.
Brandon - the first G-Plan range
The first G-Plan range was called Brandon. It was finished in light oak and in the contemporary style of the early fifties. It had a light look and feel, tables chairs and even heavy wardrobes and sideboards appeared to float off the floor. This affect was achieved with splayed legs and a simple, uncluttered look; both were key styling points for early fifties contemporary. G-Plan borrowed much from designers such as Robin Day, who pioneered contemporary furniture design. G-Pan was, though, aimed at a much wider audience.
G-Plan mid fifties glamour
Gomme updated the style of G-Plan throughout the fifties, sixties and seventies. The original light look of Brandon gave way to darker tola, or African mahogany. In the mid to late fifties there was a fashion for black ebonised legs and brass fittings. G-Plan followed this trend and upgraded its furniture with a glamorous look.
Initially, Gomme's success did not last into the early sixties. For G-Plan, 1960 was a bad year. The new G-Plan range for 1960 was not inspiring; it was yet another variation on tola, black and brass, which was already old fashioned.
Gomme introduced numerous different designs in an attempt to recapture the magic G-Plan formula. The severe and functional Limba bedroom range, designed by Leslie Dandy, ought to have been a best seller. Limba was veneered in a straight grain wood to make matching easy, but it stood on metal legs and looked a little like office furniture. The trade loved it; the public hated it. Limba was too advanced for its time; retailers soon cursed it as they were stuck with pieces of the unpopular Limba range in their showrooms. "Lumbered with Limba", was a phrase in common currency.
The World's Most Comfortable Chair
Although Limba was a disaster for Gomme, the firm had one notable success in 1962. It introduced a large, rounded swivel armchair with wings. It was available in several fabrics, but the buttoned black vinyl was a sixties style classic. This chair was very much a male thing; it could have come straight out of a James Bond movie. It was the chair that Michael Caine as Jack Carter, knocked Cliff Brumby into in the classis film "Get Carter". The inspiration for the chair was probably Arne Jacobsen's Egg Chair of 1958, which was similar in shape, but plainer. Gomme proudly proclaimed that it was the World's Most Comfortable Chair.
Ib Kofod-Larsen and G-Plan's first teak furniture
G-Plan went Danish in 1962. In an attempt to stop losing sales to Scandinavian imports, they hired their own Danish designer, Ib Kofod-Larsen. He designed a complete new range for Gomme, G-Plan Danish, in 1962. The highlight of the range was a 7 ft 6 inch sideboard in teak, which had unusual square rosewood handles. It was in the latest fashion of the era and looked stunning. The G Plan Danish sideboard sold for 61 10s [897 in todays money], which was rather expensive for a mass-market piece.
G-Plan Fresco
In the late sixties, the sculptured look was the new fashion and G-Plan led the market. They introduced their most successful range of teak furniture, Fresco, in 1967. G-Plan Fresco featured deeply sculptured handles and legs, combined with strongly patterned teak veneers. The new G-Plan Fresco dining set for 1967 had an extendible circular table and four dining chairs with padded circular seats and backs. The circle theme was a favourite of mid-sixties' design. The chairs had sculptured legs finishing in a circle at the top and bottom. The sideboard was large at 7 ft in length. It had the distinctive sculptured handles, which on the drawers appeared to imitate a smile. Fresco was for the bedroom as well as the dining room. There were Fresco wardrobes and chests of drawers, as well as a new dressing table. The dressing table had a special hidden drawer for jewellery. At 5 ft wide, it looked very impressive in the right room.
G-Plan in the seventies
Gomme continued with teak designs in the seventies. The Company positioned itself at the top of the popular market. The emphasis was on design and quality, rather than price.
G-Plan on the Golden Shot
ATVs popular game show "The Golden Shot", hosted by Bob Monkhouse, assisted by Anne Aston, offered a G-Plan Fresco dining suite and a G-Plan reclining chair as prizes in 1971.
This article is adapted from The G-Plan Revolution by Basil Hyman and Steven Braggs.
More on G-Plan
See also The High Wycombe Furniture Archive which contains an extensive collection of images from the history of the furniture trade including a large selection of G-Plan images.
Your comments on G-Plan furniture
"I have a coffee table which I inherited from my late parents, I am almost sure that it is G.Plan. but cannot find a stamp on it. All of their furniture was always G.Plan. It is a typical G .Plan style circular spider base and the glass fits into the teak base. Do you know if all G.Plan furniture was Stamped, or anyone that I can contact who would be able to advise me. Any knowledge of this would be most grateful." Anita Boutle
Hi Anita, G-Plan certainly did make glass teak glass topped tables as you described. All G-Plan furniture is marked. However, from the late sixties, red stickers, left, with G-Plan were used instead of the G-Plan stamp used on older G-Plan furniture. It may very well be G-Plan as the label might have come off over the years. However, tables in this style were made by other manufacturers in the late sixties and early seventies. Retrowow
"I have a teak sideboard, I am fairly sure it is by Ib-koford Larsen but I am not totally sure. It's the sideboard on the poster for 'Younger' 746 Fonseca in your retro sideboards page. I am trying to find out if it has any value! It has a younger tag on the back of the top drawer. many thanks." Josh "p.s. what a fantastic website!"
Hi Josh, The sideboard is manufactured by Younger. It is not G-Plan and won't be designed by Ib Kofod-Larsen. He designed for Gomme, i.e. G-Plan. It may have been by John Herbert who was Younger's design director in that period. Younger was more expensive than G-Plan, and was very high quality furniture, not quite in the Gordon Russell, or Archie Shine league.
As far as value is concerned, it all depends on condition. The best way to get an idea of value is to look on eBay completed listings for similar items. I'd guess around 200+ for a good Younger sideboard. Retrowow
"Fascinating article, thanks. I'm a little surprised, having searched completed listings, at how low the prices for G Plan tables are. Specifically, the teak extending dining table with 2 inverted 'T' shaped legs. Is there a tendency for these to be faked? Are there a lot of repro ones about? Hence the low prices for these?" Paddy
I think that there was quite a lot of G-Plan about in the 60s and 70s and demand has not caught up with supply. All depends on condition though. There is a large amount of G-Plan furniture around that would need considerable restoration work. Retrowow
"Hi, My mom and I were just looking at her G-Plan bedroom set that she brought from Scotland that was purchased in 1962. Even though it's been across the sea, and moved many times it's still in great condition. We were just wondering about the value of it. She has a dressing table and mirror, and an armoire. The dressing table has 3 middle drawers and 2 cabinets, and the armoire has 2 bottom drawers and 2 shelves behind double doors. Thanks for any help. " Alison Watters
Hi Alison, I usually find the best way to value G-Plan is to see what similar pieces sell for on eBay. There is a lively market for G-Plan on eBay and it is the best place to buy and sell. At a guess I'd say the dressing table and wardrobe would be worth 50 to 100 each. Retrowow
"I have the original Scroll and Anchor G-Plan settee which was purchased in October 1967 from G-Plan's shop in Kilburn. It has the original dralon covering. I understand there were only 3 settees of this model made, ours was the Bronze dralon, there was also the gold dralon and moquette version. It is roughly 12ft long plus the end corner scroll which is 6ft deep. We also have a G-Plan dressing table and free standing matching 3 door wardrobe, which is flat packed. Because our settee takes up a lot of room we are having to consider selling it as our present living room is too small to take the full length of the settee. If I put it on E-Bay how much do you think our settee would be worth now being as it is 42 years old. Also our dressing table and wardrobe which needs attention to the paintwork. " Mrs J Evans
Hi, It is difficult to tell with sofas. Recently a G-Plan corner unit sold for £90, but another sofa only sold for £10. It all depends on condition. There is also a very good looking G-Plan Saddle suite on a Buy-it-Now for £250. Retrowow
"I have recently per chest two G-Plan brown leather armchairs. The retailer said they were 1950s. They have small wooden stool like feet around 14cm off the ground which point outwards. Were you sit is fabric. There's nine leather buttons on the front of them. I was wondering how much they were worth if i was to sell them at a auction or even EBay. Can u help me?" Nick Parker
Hi, The best way to value furniture is to have a look at completed listings on eBay to find something similar. Do they have a G-Plan label or stamp? Retrowow
"We have a g-plan sideboard, oak wood with splayed legs done in black, purchased 57/58. This sideboard was designed to have a matching hutch place on the top, alas we didn't purchase one at the time. Now retired and would like to make a hutch for our sideboard, but I can't find a picture of one. Can you assist by directing me to a publication which would show a picture of this matching hutch. Many thanks. J. Siner." Jon A. Siner
"my grandfather has a late sixties round extendable table four chairs and i think the seven foot sideboard all in rosewood all are spotless and wants rid of them any idea of value" Simon Shaw
Hi Simon, G-Plan did a Danish style sideboard in rosewood veneer, but I don't think it was 7 feet. These may be by a more expensive maker than G-Plan: either Scandinavian, or by Younger, or Archie Shine. The value will be quite high. From £250 to £2000 for the sideboard depending on the maker. The table and chairs will be worth a similar amount. My recommendation is to look through eBay completed listings to find something similar to get and idea of the price. Retrowow
"We purchased a G-Plan table, six chairs, sideboard and drinks cupboard around 1981. The table and chairs are now with my daughter and we have kept the rest. One of the dining room chairs has a horizontal split in a back leg (near the seat) and all need re-caning and re-seating. Unfortunately I can't remember the range name to try to replace the broken chair - can you help? The sideboard is two tone, lighter wood with a distinctive grain for the most part with dark wood vertical handles. The table is also light with dark legs and the chairs are dark with cane backs. If it helps there is a printed number on the back of the sideboard - large 22 and a smaller 2682. Thanks for any help you can give." Rosemary Stevens
Hi Rosemary, the sideboard sounds like Fresco, which was G-Plan's most popular range. It was finished in teak with distinctively sculptured handles. I'm not sure about the chairs with cane backs, though. Retrowow
"Hi, I am a loss trying to find out the name of my parents G-plan dining suite. It is a large mahogany table -which extends. The chairs are cushioned with a velour dark beige and brown 'zig zag diamond pattern. There are two carvers and four regular chairs. They have a slatted back. They also bought a rectangular coffee table , nest of tables and corner crystal display cabinets and two drinks cabinets. They are all mahogany. My parents are looking to sell some of the suite, so I would be grateful if anyone had any info, or would know anywhere near East Grinstead that may sell/buy retro Gplan?
Many thanks for any help you can give Nicola p.s. I have looked on ebay and cannot find an exact match on the dining table etc" Nicola
"Hi there! I have the same problem as Nicola, we found (can you believe it!) a G-plan 3 piece bentwood suite (Samantha design I do believe it might be called) dumped unceremoniously by the roadside, enquiries led us to understand that the widow to whom they belonged had passed and the new owners had no need for it. It is in the most beautiful style and would imagine it is really comfortable as we have stripped the cushions for cleaning and have the suite bases in storage for the moment. We are keen to restore it fully and pass it on to someone who has the space to fully appreciate incredible curved 3-seater sofa and its perfectly matching armchairs. I have not been able to trace a single listing on the web incl ebay about the possible value of the suite and though it bears the G-plan branding I can't find a reference to the range at all. Are you able to advise at all please?" Lisa
Hi Lisa, The value of these suites depends on condition and how much someone else wants it. I have found that the most reliable way to value furniture is find a similar piece in eBay completed listings. A G-Plan 'Tulip' suite recently sold on eBay for £122 - see G-Plan 'Tulip'
"would like to refinish polish coffee table left it out side it got wet and has now gone grey on top ideas please" cdavid
I don't think the market for G-Plan is sufficiently mature for some pieces to be worth significantly more than others, except perhaps the Ib Kofod-Larsen designs, which 'Samantha' isn't. If you really like the piece, then restore it for your own use and don't worry too much about the value. Retrowow
"Hi there! how do you recognise then an Ib Kofod-Larsen in the G-plan range from the others. Did they have a distinctive stamp? thanks" Raquel
"I have inherited my parents G-plan dining set with 6 chairs, welsh dresser, corner unit with show case and bookcase, continental headboard, dressing table and stool circa 1955-57. Is there anywhere in particular we should be trying to sell these items and have you an estimated price range. Many thanks. Steph" Stephanie Kaufman
Hi Steph, eBay is the best place to sell G-Plan. Look for similar items to get an idea of price, but bear in mind condition is very important. Retrowow
We have a whole bedroom suite of G plan fresco. Do you know an interested collector please??
Charlotte
Charlotte Banks
I have a dining suite with 4 chairs. The table is 137cm long and extends to 188cm with the leaf inserted (you pull either side of the top to slide out ti insert the leaf). It is 117cm wide.
It is teak on the top but the underframe and legs are ebonised. There is a brass cup at the end of the tapered leg. Each chair is slat backed and has a "bitter chocolate" velour seat.
Under the table on each section is a stamp impressed 105 with a 1 next to it.
I have searched the web and have not found anything like it.Any ideas to its value please?
Carol
I have been unable to sell a late 70's G-plan fresco dressing table with mirror,in good condition, for the past year or more.Valuers/auctioneers in this part of North Norfolk say there is absolutely no demand for retro teak furniture and I may as well dump it.Can this be true as it is, sentiment apart,still to my mind a splendid piece of beautifully styled and rich coloured teak bedroom furniture. Simply too large to fit into our bungalow.
Doug
Doug Crane
Hi Doug,
In response to your comment below, there is a strong demand for G-Plan especially teak G-Plan. Have a look on eBay. You will see pieces selling for more than £100. Some conventional auctions will take it, I guess they are more interested in Victoriana, which is comparatively less fashionable now.
Retrowow
Hi, have just bought a g plan chest of drawers with handles which are horizontal and oblong but slightly tapered at end end. This matches my Mum's wardrobe with the same handles which are situated vertically on the wardrobe. I think both pieces were bought around 1967. Does anyone know which style they are please? Deborah Wood
We bought G-Plan furniture in the 1950's when we married.
Always very well made,we had a sideboard with a glass front,
a 3-piece suite,then later on the Fresco units,which we still have. They are still as good as new.
Jean
Jean Singleton
I have G Plan 3 mirror long dressing table, centre shelf - two sides, one two drawer side, one small cabinet side...has had custom glass top since bought in 1068/9 - at furniture store in Dorchester, Dorset. It has trademark oval one piece 'legs' each end. Immaculate condition.
Also wardrobe...simple, two doors...g-planesque..bought at same time, and chest of drawers, five drawers with five inch
straight legs.
Please advise value. I will be selling.
irene freeman
I got a wardrobbe and dressing table of e.bay.It is old but very stylish i am 47, anyway i noticed on the left hand drawer on the dressing table had a g.plan gold stamp,is this of any significance at all on the item age is it valuble are you able to help,thankyou look forwoard to hearing from you.
yours faithfully
H.Denoon
Heather
Hi, Sorry it's hard to say from the description. The Gold label was used on G-Plan in the 50s and 60s. Later, from mid to late sixties they used a red label which was stuck onto the furniture. I hope this helps. Retrowow
Hi, what is the best way to remove scratches & marks off my teak G Plan furniture? James
hi i am turning my flat back to the 60s/70s era so far its going well.i wondered if anyone had any items for sale from those eras preferably cheap lol and local to leeds.in return i have for sale 2 seater mustard buttoned vinyl sofa,a 60s vanity unit complete with sink full surround unit with glass sliding doors and shelfs and sink slots into it.cheers.my email addy is lynnsnakekeeper@hotmail.co.uk. lynn
Use steelwool #000 wetted with teak oil, and simply rub very lightly in the direction of the grain until the scratch is gone.
Apply teak oil to a soft cloth and rub the entire piece of furniture to get the same finish all over.
Polish the entire piece with a dry cloth.
hope this helps james good luck.
lynn
My son has been left some g-plan furniture.The sideboard is long, with polished brass feet, bi-fold doors at either side,(one needing a small repair to the slider), and drawers in the centre, the top one being a cutlery drawer.They have hinged brass handles.
The dining table, when fully extended on its eight black legs,( with brass feet matching the sideboard), is an attractive ovoid shape.
The wood appears to be teak, and both pieces have the gold G-plan stamp.The sideboard also has a stamp with manufacturers info including a year, possibly 1960.The surfaces are a little faded but otherwise in good condition.
There are four woven-seat dining chairs in excellent condition, but these have no visible maker's mark that we can find, so I'm not certain whether these match the set.
I am trying to identify the range of furniture.I have seen identical items elsewhere on the net, but haven't come across the name.Can you help?
M Winfield
I a min Glastonbury at the moment and my aunty just passed away and thinking about taking her bedroom but the only problem is there is no wardrobe ,and i would like to match a 5 door wardrobe if possible,wonder if you can help me.thank you look forward to hearing from you,Regards Mary Mary
I have a re-covered black velour g plan swivel rock chair with rosewood legs. It approx 1960-1965. It is in good condition and |I have tried to sell in local paper but dont get any response. I have checked e bay and there are only 3 for sale currently. I really need the space and I need to get rid of it. Any reasoanable offers would be accepted. brenda mckendrick
I think we may have the g-plan reform 3-pce suite. Is there a picture of this anywhere to check. Also, what would the frame be made from, as we want to decide if it is worth restoring, as it will need new springs, fillings, covers, legs!
Thanks
hartley
I have a retro G-Plan Dining Table finished in teak, six chairs and two dressers that are joined by an overhead cupboard, 1960's. Would the black leather actually be real leather on the chairs?
I am having to dispose of the whole suite as I am down-sizing.
Very sad but there is just not enough room in my new bungalow.
Jannette
i have a five peice bedroom suite to sell all have a g plan stamp in them but also in a gold emblem what looks like the letters e or l k or b? do you know these initials. the suite consists of large robe with central mirror, mans fitted robe, oblong dressing table with stool and two 6 drawere chest of drawers, these were bought in 1969. infact its 6 peices with the stool, all in good condition and im looking for £300.00 for the lot. to be collected is this a steal. june knott
I have some G-Plan bedroom furniture, do you know how I can get in touch with collectors? Anne Hardinges
Hi
I have some quality peieces of the original G PLAN
My father bought various items from a store in London in 1957
A wardrobe, table and chairs, chest of drawers etc
I have the original receipt for the purchase as well and the cost was £248 7s 6d
A lot of money in those days.
Do you know of any collectors that would be interested in puchasing the items or places that deal in this type of furniture
Regards
Roy Cheesman
Roy Cheesman
Where can I get my extensive inherited G plan furniture restored... It's perfectly sound but very stained and very, very smelly. I have a chest of drawers(tollboy), dressing table (with sconces) or should that be distressing table (it's quite spoilt), with stinky felt interior and 2 bedside tables(which look awful), 1 large ladies wardrobe and 2 coffee tables(bought 2nd hand). Any ideas anyone? I'm based in S/East London and have transport... Cheers.
=)
Victoria
That sofa is exactly what I am looking for...I live in Northeast Florida. Can you recommend a source for me to find such piece? Chris Hendrix
Hi Chris,
The sofa above is G-Plan Danish. The designer is Ib Kofod-Larsen. I have found that eBay is the best place to buy G-Plan. However, I'm not sure how much of it there is in the US.
You might want to look for Danish furniture, which was popular in the US from the late 50s to the 70s.
regards
Retrowow
Am looking for the extending circular dining table and four dining chairs from the teak "fresco" range dating back to 1978. The back of the chairs have a lovely woven-type panel. Would need them to be in REALLY excellent condition. Possible glitch - shipping to Ireland necessary! Margie
I boughgt a G plan coffee table in 1997, square with a glass square in the middle. It used to have a copper inlay between the seams but had been discontinued when I purchased one. Unfortunately it was damaged recently by plaster boared from the ceiling and so I am hopeful that you may be able to help. Jan Goodbody
Ooops, apologies Chris, I bought the coffee table in 1977 (not 1997)
I bought a G plan coffee table in 1997, square with a glass square in the middle. It used to have a copper inlay between the seams but had been discontinued when I purchased one. Unfortunately it was damaged recently by plaster boared from the ceiling and so I am hopeful that you may be able to help. Jan Goodbody
Jan Goodbody
Where is the best palce to sell a 1960's 7ft. 3ins G. Plan solid sideboard, we have had no luck on E-bay. It is a classic piece 3 drawers 2 bifold door compartments and a drop down drinks cabinet, it has been owned by us since 1960. We can not understand the lack response we are getting. pam and david
Hi Pam and David,
I would still say eBay. Make sure you have good quality photographs, a good description and a realistic starting price.
Have a look at similar pieces that have sold and compare and follow their layout and pricing.
Retrowow
hi,i have a 9piece g plan wall unit,that im looking 2 sell. Do you know of any collectors and how much i should ask for it? fi
I want to research a g-plan sideboard. It is teak 4 doors & 4 drawers. I cant see a g-plan tag on it so does all original gplan furniture have these tags. Ann Reddin
Hi Ann,
All G-Plan would have have had a red G-Plan sticker or a gold emobsed G-Plan brand when it was made. Gomme was very proud of the G-Plan brand. That doesn't mean the stickers might not have come off.
Can you send me a picture of the sideboard?
Retrowow
Hello
Enjoyed reading your overview, did g plan make any purpose built office desks as I have a black plastic topped what can only be described as a standard office desk with 2 drawers to the right side. Unlike a lot of the desks which are really dressing tables on ebay this has handles on the drawers which I have seen on a koford larsen ? piece on the net.
Thanks in advance for your help in identifying this g plan piece.
NB. The G plan mark is quite faint not gold and looks like the capital letters E & G are also printed on the inner section of top drawer.
Thank you
Matt
Matt Pepper
Hi Matt,
I don't think G-Plan made office furniture. Most of the 'desks' I have seen have seen are the Fresco dressing table with the mirror removed. You can always tell, because the Fresco dressing table had a jewelery drawer which you can see at the top of the desk.
I don't think Ib Kofod-Larsen designed desks for Gomme, but I may be wrong. All G-Plan Danish pieces (i.e. designed by Ib Kofod-Larsen) are marked with his signature and 'G-Plan Danish design'
Retrowow
Hi
I have G plan 8 drawer G plan Bedroom Drawers white front drawers teak main casing.
Coffee table
Dark wood corner cupboard and two bookcases 1 with glass front 1 with wood doors.
Where is the best site to sell and what price should I let them go for?
All inm good condition.
Eileen Paterson
I have a traditional oval original G Plan glasstopped coffee table plus a nest of 3 tables in G Plan that I want to sell, they need restoration so I am actually happy to give them away. I also have a White and Newton sideboard, this also needs restoration and just needs a new home LINDA WESTON
Hi there, I have a teak G Plan sideboard about 7 feet long with double doors either side four drawers (the top one a cutlery drawer. It is in pretty good nick apart from it has two or three dark rings (which look like/are burn marks or very old red wine marks) on the top and a patch which is lighter (ab out the size of a place mat, this could have been caused by a hot dish). How do I go about restoring this - do I need to strip it, sand the top and put teak oil on? I would be grateful for any help. Cheers, Liz Liz Chidlow
Retrowow
Retro furniture, fashion and collectables
Is ebay the best place, shoul;d I give a reserve price
Thanks" Linda 16/04/2010
i am unsure of a GPlan label for IB Kopod Larsen. It has the gold embossed GPlan logo with Danish Design in caps below, his signature (which is under the GPlan logo not the left hand side) but no mention of made by Gomme High Wycombe Bucks.Please advise.
thanks" claire 02/05/2010
I have a set of matching bedroom G-Plan furniture that I can't find any matches to online, even on eBay. I have a large four drawer chest of drawers and two door wardrobe with full length mirror. With this I have a large kidney-shaped dressing table with mirror and four side drawers. The table top is wood covered in glass. All drawer fronts and the wardrobe door with the mirror attached are light grey, matching a leather stool. All have black legs and brass fittings, which I believe is late fifties? They were bought around this time from Grange Furniture in Watford by my Grandparents, were given to my parents in the late seventies, and have the early G-Plan stamp, but no one can remember exactly when purchased. We have never seen any other furniture like it and were wondering if you could tell us what range it might be and any other information, please? I love this furniture and don't want to sell, but I don't know anything about them. Any help would be really appreciated, thank you." Jane 03/05/2010
I have some G-Plan pieces and the label is G-plan in gold on a deep red background. What about this label?
Thank you" ana 01/06/2010
I have a G-Plan coffee table which my parent bought in the late 60's. It's rectangular, 4 feet long, on wheels, teak sides and a pine (?) body with a storage well in the center and recessed storage areas at both ends and a removable glass top. It has a red label on it . Haven't seen anything like it on ebay. Have you come across this one before
Lorraine" Lorraine 09/06/2010
Jenny Alexander" Jenny Alexander 10/06/2010
I have just seen a G Plan wardrobe that is painted white with lilac doors. This is advertised as having been originally bought from G Plan painted - is this correct?
Thanks
Debbie" Lewis 15/06/2010
How can I found out what the orginal fabric looks like?
please help.
Mark F." Mark Foxsmith 22/06/2010
I've recently bought a sideboard on ebay very cheap and have found out it's got the G Plan gold stamp. For the most part it's okay, but one shelf is missing and 2 drawer handles are chipped. I've been searching online for G plan salvaged parts to no avail. Do you know of anywhere I can get replacements for these?
Thanks for any help you can give." Terri 03/07/2010
Can you tell me if G plan did furniture in 60's/70's with square brass handle with a circular hole in the middle? Not sure if what we have is G plan or not. It's the right era and quality furniture but can't see anything similar on e-bay for G plan.
Your help would be appreciated.
Thanks" Kathy Wilson 27/07/2010
Tahnks
Ray" RAY KIRK 28/07/2010
One wardrobe has the code number 1195.
Any help appreciated.
Linda Dowley" Linda Dowley 30/07/2010
I have a chest of drawers that I believe originally had a mirror attached too. It has 4 drawers and is a pale wood - possibly oak, with a darker veneer casing. It has a gold and black label inside the top drawer on the right hand side - not one of the labels faetured on your web page - it says EG and below says 'Gomme furniture Wycombe'. there is a samll picture of a building and trees at the top of the label. Inside, the top drawer is divided into 3 sections.
There are no legs or feet on the furniture. The handles are rectangular and ridged, but not like others I have seen on G-plan furniture. It is chunky, solid and in good condition.
Is this an early G-plan?
Any info would be great - thanks.
Sam" Sam 24/08/2010
thanks pauline 16/06/2010" pauline wilson 16/10/2010
I have purchased two G-Plan sideboards in pretty bad condition that I'm going to revamp. I have to remove the handles to do this but they're moulded so I'm a bit stuck. Any clues how I might extract them ?
Cheers
Emma" Emma Wood 03/12/2010
I have recently purchased a second G Plan room divider, can anyone tell me where I can purchase the brass adjustable feet that are missing.
Any help will be gratefully received
James" James 15/12/2010
Is anyone able to tell me what the name of this piece of furniture is at all?
Many thanks, Helen" Helen 28/12/2010
The two pacman heads are the Utility symbol. This is a piece of Utility furniture made by E Gommme, but not G-Plan. The Utility scheme started in the War, to supply good quality and inexpensive furniture to those that needed it. The scheme continued into the early years of the 50s, but furniture makers were allowed to make their own designs and still use the Utility symbol." Steve 25/01/2011
Did it have the G-Plan red label? I'm not sure it is piece I recognise.
Best regards" Steven 13/03/2011
We just purchased the Fresco 1969 5 foot sideboard. It's in excellent shape and bears the red/white sticker inside the middle cabinet door. The seems to be solid wood. I wasn't sure from the website description if it meant this piece was finished in teak veneer or solid teak. I don't see the tell tale signs of veneer. Do you know if it was manufactured in just teak or other woods? Also, it looks like they used pledge on it over the years. Do you know what the pieces were finished with originally? Oil or a laquer? The original owner passed away last year after bringing it over from England many years ago. (We are in Vancouver Canada) We bought it from his daughter. She believes it was never re-finished. Thanks for your help. Great info on your site!" Jody 15/03/2011
The sides, doors and top would have been in teak veneer. It's quite hard to tell with G-Plan as it is so well made. Solid parts such as legs were made from afrormosia, which has a similar colour to teak, but is easier to work.
It should not be cleaned with Pledge, or similar. Just dust and very occasionally refinish with teak oil.
Regards" Steve 17/03/2011
I am looking to buy a g plan Astro coffee table and have found one at a bargain price, however the description whilst it says g plan alos says 'teak finish' - do you know if there were teak wood finishes or fakes made of this table? It looks good but lighter in colour than what I am used to seeing.PS.Good site thank you.
Sylvie 25/3/2011" sylvie 25/03/2011
I hope this helps." Steve 26/03/2011
i've bought a 3 door "fresco" wardrobe and just waiting for it too be delivered in a 2 days time.
i am a little worried i may not get it up to my first floor flat,in one piece due to size restrictions.
how easy is it too dismantle?any tips on the best way too proceed to minimize damage?
is there a printable version of the original set up instruction manual you could put me onto?
kind regards
roger
p.s great site/info thankyou" roger hazeldon 27/03/2011
Table and 4 chairs are water damaged and I am looking to renovate. Carver and extending leaf shows standard I have to achieve.
Any tips for preparing and renovating also for finishing laquer.
Regards.
Barry." Barry Johnson 26/06/2011
If it's got the label then it's genuine G-Plan Danish by Ib Kofod-Larsen. These pieces are quite rare, so finding a handle will be very difficult. The best bet will be to find a scruffy piece for a cheap price with the handle. Or find a craftsman who can make an exact copy." Steven 07/07/2011
There hasn't been a Kofod-Larsen dressing table sold on eBay recently. The Fresco ones are more common, but go for £100 to £200 in top condition. I'd expect a Kofod-Larsen one to sell for more. The best bet to value something is to study eBay completed listings." Steven 09/07/2011
I have looked a lot online for some hinges for the folding doors on a 3 door fresco wardrobe. I bought one about 8 months ago and love it but it came without 2 of the hinges needed for complete assembly. I don't suppose you would know where to get replacements?
Thanks in advance
Will" will howden 26/07/2011
RARE ITEM AND IF SO DOES IT HAVE ANY COMMERCIAL VALUE." J. WATERS 26/09/2011
Hope you can help and thank you" Charlie 18/12/2011
G-Plan made very little office furniture. These desks are often converted from dressing tables. Yours does look like one of those.
Have a look at the G-Plan Quadrille bedroom set here http://hwfurniturearchive.bucks.ac.uk/asset-bank/action/viewAsset?id=1437&index=144&total=235&categoryId=455&categoryTypeId=1&collection=1960-1969&sortAttributeId=39&sortDescending=true.
Your desk looks similar to the dressing table without the mirror.
best regards" Steven 26/12/2011
i have 2 g-plan 1960's/70's pieces, one is a large corner unit/bookshelf with a deep cupboard ungerneath the other is a smaller book shelf/glass sliding door display cabinet with 3 drawers underneath. I am wanting to sell them and have no idea how much they are worth and cannot see anything like them for sale. they were inherrited. any advice? many thanks Amy." Amy Farmer 07/01/2012
If anyone can help, will be much appreciated" keith milne 18/04/2012
what a great site you have with loads of informatiom.
i have a g plan late 60's early 70's side board between 7 and 8 ft long its in a dark wood not sure if its teak or rose wood with double cupboard one end single cupboard the other end with 3 drawers one of them a cutlery drawer.very nice piece of furniture .iam unable to find any information on your site and many other sites. if i were to send you some photos would you be able to give me any info on it." natalie davis 23/04/2012
I have just bought a g-plan secretariat librenza unit off ebay in a pretty bad state, some deep scratches and marks. It is teak and ebonized wood. How do I get the scratches out and bring back the shine to the teak and ebonized wood. Also there is a brass cupboard pull ring missing, where could i get a replacement. Thanks" Mark Stubbs 21/07/2012
Thank you for your time.
Laura" Laura 22/07/2012
Thanks, Helen." Helen 24/09/2012
The might be Chinese White - there is a picture here - http://hwfurniturearchive.bucks.ac.uk/asset-bank/action/viewAsset?id=702&index=50&total=133&categoryId=454&categoryTypeId=1&collection=1950-1959&sortAttributeId=0&sortDescending=false
Best regards" Steven 24/09/2012
Your best bet is to find a tatty one (you could try eBay or your local paper or charity shop) to salvage for parts. No-one re-manufactures parts for vintage G-Plan.
best regards" Steven 30/09/2012
G-Plan Garrick dates from the 1980s. For some more designs see http://hwfurniturearchive.bucks.ac.uk/asset-bank/action/quickSearch?keywords=garrick&newSearch=true&quickSearch=true.
As to values, based on eBay sales - bedside tables - £30, wardrobe - £50. I've not seen a dressing table, but I guess £50 to £100.
best regards" Steven 14/10/2012
eBay is the best place to sell. Have a look at completed listings to get an idea of value. Remember condition is very important.
best regards." Steven 30/10/2012
kind regards, mo godbeer" mo Godbeer 04/12/2012
I have some fresco stackIng tables with the top one faded by the sun
and scratched. Did G Plan put on a finish such as polyurethane or varnish
on their original pieces?. What's the best way to restore the top and remove the scratches ?, I have Danish oil
Thanks Ron" Ron Hodgson 12/12/2012
best regards
Steven" Steven 13/12/2012
G-Plan used a either a red label or a gold embossed stamp to indicate their brand. G-Plan pieces will have one of these. The red labels do come off. The gold stamps do not. See the collectors' guide for pictures of the stamps (follow the link at the top of this page).
best regards" Steven 14/12/2012
I have got the two G-Plan wall dividers as pictured in your home page (with the purple chair).I am looking to sell them so please get in contact for details and offers please.Thanks" john 21/12/2012
I have a sideboard Koford Larsen (4021) in very good condition and a chest of drawers (1316) also koford Larsen. I was wondering how much they are worth and can they be sold at auction?" John Garmeson 03/01/2013
Bonhams have sold G-Plan in the past you might want to enquire. Alternatively, eBay is the biggest market for G-Plan. Look at recently sold items to get an idea of starting price and take some good photos.
best regards" Steven 06/01/2013
You cold try searching the archives of the Cabinet Maker for 1963 to see if there was any discussion of Japanese manufacturers.
best regards" Steven 25/01/2013
Can anyone tell me please if this furniture is 'Fire Resistant' in terms of current Fire Safety Regulations?" Andrew Hamilton 11/03/2013
Any ideas where I can get them?" Janine 01/05/2013
I think your quest will be difficult. It might be worth looking in Homebase to see if something similar exists. Otherwise try to buy some scruffy chairs with these fittings on eBay. You might find that the cheapest option. If you can get the chairs for virtually nothing, or they didn't sell you might persuade the vendor to send just the fittings so saving on postage.
Otherwise you will need to find someone who can make them." Steven 02/05/2013