April 17, 2017

Meet Paul Murphy of Murphy’s Touch in West Los Angeles

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Paul Murphy.

Paul, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
When I was just 16 years old, I began my apprenticeship in the antique restoration and refinishing field in my hometown of Farnham – Surrey, England. As a third-generation restorer, I discovered my natural ability to bring out the beauty in antiques. In 1982, I moved from England to Los Angeles and brought with me my love for the restoration and refinishing trade

For the first 5 years in LA, I worked for 3 of the top restoration companies in the area. By 1987, I was ready to branch off on my own and started Murphy’s Touch as I further developed my own creative style of bringing life back to the finest antiques.

Since then, I’ve successfully built a solid reputation for being one of the most skilled restorers, and known for my knack for keeping antique pieces looking “antique”—as well as for making new pieces look old. Utilizing old world products that were used in the original creation of the antiques, my methods help to maintain the value of the piece in the market. Having worked for prestigious clients that range from a king, a Mayor and the Getty Museum to the who’s who in the Hollywood crowd, I can confidently say that I can replicate “any kind of finish you can come up with.”

Over the years, I’ve added to my list of skills and services to include Murphy’s Mobile Touch where waxing and furniture touch up is provided to those clients that prefer not to transport their pieces, or for those who have elaborate built-in cabinetry or paneling. This service has also expanded into the commercial market where my team and I act as “Furniture Medics” for hotel chains undergoing upgrades and/or new builds with furniture installations. As I love to teach others, I’ve also added Murphy’s Master Class – offering “trade secrets” for Restoration and Refinishing; On-site consulting and training to commercial and residential construction projects, again allowing others to tap into my expert knowledge and experience.

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Being in a luxury service business, I have experienced many ups and downs along the way.

When the economy is not doing well, the restoration business is the first to feel the pinch. I have had many a time wondering where the next pay check may come from. Yet I have kept a positive attitude, and have maintained strong relationships with designers, general contractors and private clients alike. I need only make a few phone calls and can quickly drum up some new business. I believe we just have to adjust and embrace the changes of the times.

murphy’s touch – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I’m an artist. I specialize in breathing new life into tired furniture and make it look as though I’ve done nothing to it. My restoration work seamlessly integrates into the piece and I can match any finish. Often times an antique restoration requires much more than just matching a stain. I have an eye for wood type, color and design and know when to hold back and not do too much to a piece.

What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
The moment that stands out the most was years ago, when I was asked to be a part of the restoration of the Getty House. Although this work was pro bono, I felt extremely honored to be a part of the rehabilitation of this historic house which is the official residence of the Mayor of Los Angeles.

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