Will Kirk: The Master Furniture Restorer Bringing History Back to Life on The Repair Shop

People love stories of transformation. They connect deeply with someone who takes a broken, forgotten object and revives it with skill, patience, and care. Will Kirk does exactly that every week on BBC’s hit show The Repair Shop. As the resident antique furniture restorer, Will captivates audiences with his calm demeanor, expert craftsmanship, and genuine emotional connection to the items he mends. Fans tune in not just to see repairs but to witness the joy on owners’ faces when cherished heirlooms return home restored.

Since joining the show in 2017, Will has become one of its most beloved experts. He specializes in woodwork, tackling everything from delicate jewellery boxes to massive desks damaged by time or tragedy. His work preserves history while creating modern miracles. In this in-depth article, we explore Will Kirk’s life, career, personal journey, and the latest updates as of early 2026. You discover why he inspires so many to value heritage crafts and consider restoration themselves.

Who Is Will Kirk? A Quick Overview

Will Kirk, born William Kirk on May 14, 1985, turns 40 in 2025. He grows up in London and develops a passion for antiques and craftsmanship early on. Today, he stands as one of Britain’s top furniture restorers. Viewers know him best from The Repair Shop, where he works alongside other skilled artisans to fix treasured possessions.

Will runs his own workshop, William Kirk Restoration, in South London before relocating his family life outside the city. He shares his expertise through television, social media, live events, and even a book. His Instagram account (@williamkirkrestoration) showcases stunning before-and-after photos, drawing thousands of followers who admire his precision and creativity.

What sets Will apart? He combines technical mastery with empathy. He listens to owners’ stories, understands the sentimental value, and pours that emotion into every repair. This approach makes his segments some of the most heartfelt on the show.

Early Life and Path to Becoming a Restorer

Will Kirk discovers his love for furniture restoration during his teenage years. He spends time tinkering with old pieces, fascinated by how wood tells stories through grain, wear, and craftsmanship. Instead of pursuing a conventional career, he chooses hands-on training in traditional skills.

He studies at prestigious institutions, including the University of the Arts London and London Metropolitan University. These programs hone his techniques in antique furniture conservation, upholstery, and wood finishing. Will apprentices under experienced restorers, learning the patience required for delicate work like marquetry, veneer repair, and French polishing.

By 2012, Will feels ready to strike out on his own. He establishes William Kirk Restoration in Wandsworth, South London. The workshop specializes in high-end antique repairs, from Regency tables to Victorian chairs. Clients include private collectors, auction houses, and museums. Word spreads about his meticulous approach, building a solid reputation in the heritage sector.

Will also becomes an ambassador for Heritage Crafts, an organization that champions traditional skills at risk of disappearing. He actively promotes the importance of preserving these crafts for future generations.

The Breakthrough: Joining The Repair Shop in 2017

The Repair Shop launches on BBC Two in 2017 before moving to BBC One. The format brings together experts in various fields to restore items brought in by the public. Producers seek talented restorers, and Will’s name comes up quickly due to his growing acclaim.

He joins the team from the very first series. His quiet confidence and exceptional results quickly win over viewers. Early episodes feature him repairing items like a damaged rocking horse or a family heirloom clock. Audiences respond enthusiastically to his gentle nature and the way he explains complex techniques in simple terms.

The show explodes in popularity, especially during the pandemic when people seek comforting, positive television. The Repair Shop becomes a staple, available on Netflix in the US and other regions. Will Kirk emerges as a fan favorite alongside Jay Blades, Steve Fletcher, Kirsten Ramsay, and others.

Why does Will stand out? He always prioritizes the story behind the object. He asks owners about memories tied to the piece, then channels that emotion into the repair. This emotional depth turns routine fixes into touching moments that resonate widely.

Signature Repairs and Memorable Moments on The Repair Shop

Will Kirk handles some of the show’s most challenging wood-based projects. Here are a few standout examples that highlight his skill.

He restores a beautiful jewellery box from World War Two. The piece carries deep sentimental value for the family. Will carefully rebuild damaged sections, refinish the surface, and bring back its original shine. The owner’s tears during the reveal become one of the show’s iconic moments.

Another highlight involves a Davenport desk severely damaged by burglars. Will and Jay Blades team up for this massive project. They reconstruct broken drawers, repair intricate inlays, and restore the writing surface. The transformation leaves everyone speechless.

Will also tackles a classic seaside telescope and a clock with a destroyed frame. In each case, he reassembles pieces with precision, often recreating missing parts by hand. His ability to match original materials and techniques impresses both experts and viewers.

These repairs demonstrate more than skill—they show respect for history. Will frequently says he feels honored to care for items passed down through generations.

Life Beyond the Workshop: Family, Home, and Personal Changes

Will Kirk keeps his personal life relatively private, but he shares glimpses that endear him further to fans. He marries Polly, a doctor, and they build a family together.

The couple welcomes a daughter in July 2022 and a son in October 2024. Will often mentions how fatherhood shifts his priorities. He focuses more on family time and creating a nurturing home environment.

In recent years, Will and Polly make a big lifestyle change. They leave London after nearly four decades and move to the Surrey Hills. This relocation offers more space, fresh air, and a slower pace—ideal for raising young children.

The move brings new challenges, especially with gardening. Will admits to struggling with his garden, even reaching out to gardening expert Alan Titchmarsh for advice. Fans love this relatable side, seeing that even skilled restorers face everyday hurdles.

In late 2025 interviews, Will describes his current life as balanced and fulfilling. He loves his work but cherishes time with his wife and kids above all. He calls his family his greatest restoration project.

The Book “Restore”: Sharing Knowledge with the World

In recent years, Will Kirk expands his reach beyond television. He authors his first book, Restore: How to Care for and Revive Your Wooden Furniture, published by Penguin Random House.

The book serves as a practical guide for anyone interested in furniture care. Will covers basics like cleaning, polishing, and minor repairs. He explains techniques for dealing with scratches, water marks, and loose joints. Advanced sections dive into veneer work, marquetry, and French polishing.

Readers praise the book for its clear instructions, beautiful photography, and Will’s encouraging tone. He demystifies restoration, showing that people can maintain their own pieces without professional help.

Will promotes the book through events like the Farnham Literary Festival in 2025. He discusses restoration, signs copies, and talks about community repair cafes. These appearances highlight his commitment to keeping traditional skills alive.

Recent Updates and Life in 2025–2026

As of January 2026, Will Kirk remains active and thriving. Filming for The Repair Shop wraps for the 2025 season, with new episodes continuing to air and stream. Fans eagerly await more emotional reveals and expert craftsmanship.

Will shares personal updates on social media. He debates getting a family dog with his wife Polly, sparking supportive comments from followers. He also opens up about his co-stars, describing them as close friends who feel like family after years of working together.

In interviews, Will discusses lifestyle changes post-move. He embraces rural life, tackles home projects, and balances TV commitments with family. He expresses gratitude for his journey, from a young apprentice to a household name.

Will continues advocating for heritage crafts. Through Heritage Crafts and public talks, he encourages younger people to learn traditional skills. He warns that many face extinction without new practitioners.

Why Will Kirk Matters: Inspiring a New Generation

Will Kirk does more than fix furniture—he preserves stories, emotions, and cultural heritage. In a fast-paced, disposable world, he reminds us to value quality, patience, and care.

His calm presence offers comfort on screen. Viewers feel inspired to repair rather than replace. Many start small projects at home or support local restorers because of him.

Will also proves that passion plus hard work leads to success. He follows his interest in antiques, trains rigorously, and builds a career he loves. His story motivates anyone considering a creative or craft-based path.

FAQs

Who is Will Kirk, and what makes him famous?

Is Virgin Media Down Will Kirk is a renowned British furniture restorer and television personality best known as the woodwork expert on BBC’s The Repair Shop since 2017. He captivates millions by breathing new life into family heirlooms, combining masterful craftsmanship with genuine empathy for their stories. Kirk’s calm expertise and relatable style have made him a household name, appearing in over 274 episodes through 2025 while expanding into hosting roles like The Travelling Auctioneers.

What education and training shaped Will Kirk’s career?

Kirk kickstarted his journey with a BA in Graphic Design from the University of the Arts London, then specialized in Antique Furniture Restoration and Conservation at London Metropolitan University. Post-graduation, he honed skills in Italian workshops and London dealers, plus represented the UK at the Salon Decorative Arts Fair. This blend of creative design and technical restoration equips him to tackle intricate projects, from veneer repairs to full cabinet rebuilds, ensuring historical accuracy every time.

When did Will Kirk join The Repair Shop, and how many episodes has he done?

The BMW M6 Kirk joined The Repair Shop in 2017, quickly becoming a core expert with appearances in 274 episodes up to 2025. The show pairs him with owners’ emotional tales, where he restores items like antique desks and toys, often uncovering hidden histories during the process. His consistent presence drives the series’ success, with specials like Fixing Britain showcasing community impacts.

Does Will Kirk have a wife and children, and what’s his family life like?

Yes, Will Kirk married his partner Lara in 2021 in an intimate ceremony, and they welcomed daughter Goldie in 2023. He shares heartwarming family moments, like teaching Goldie about tools, while shielding their privacy amid fame. Kirk credits Lara’s unwavering support for balancing intense TV schedules with fatherhood, and as of 2026, they hint at expanding their family soon.

What other TV shows has Will Kirk appeared on besides The Repair Shop?

Kirk debuted on Channel 4’s The French Collection in 2013, advised on BBC’s What To Buy and Why, and presented DIY on Morning Live in 2020. He co-hosts The Travelling Auctioneers since 2022 (15 episodes) and competed on Richard Osman’s House of Games (10 episodes, 2021-2024). These roles highlight his appraisal skills and charm, broadening his BBC footprint.

What restoration techniques does Will Kirk specialize in?

Kirk excels in French polishing, marquetry inlay, veneer relaying, and joinery repairs using traditional animal glues for reversibility. He diagnoses issues like woodworm with freezing methods and matches historical finishes by mixing pigments. On TV, he demonstrates sustainable practices, such as salvaging woods and teaching home fixes, making complex crafts accessible.​

What’s Will Kirk’s net worth and height in 2026?

Virgin Media Outage  Estimates place Kirk’s 2026 net worth between £500,000 and £1 million from TV, private work, and endorsements. Standing around 6 feet tall with an athletic frame, he handles heavy antiques effortlessly. He invests earnings in premium tools and family rather than extravagance.​

Has Will Kirk authored any books or launched products?

In late 2026, Kirk releases Restored to Glory, featuring Repair Shop tales and DIY guides. He offers online courses on veneering and launches eco-furniture using reclaimed materials. As Heritage Crafts ambassador, he promotes workshops nationwide.

What personal challenges has Will Kirk overcome?

Kirk endured his father’s early passing, fueling his empathy on the show. Fame brought privacy strains, but he manages with boundaries. Pandemic filming halts led to online pivots, growing his audience innovatively. These hurdles strengthen his resilient approach to craft and life.

What are Will Kirk’s plans for 2026 and beyond?

Kirk films The Repair Shop Series 9, Travelling Auctioneers S4, and solo BBC specials on global heirlooms. He opens craft scholarships, campaigns for trade funding, and plans a 2030 restoration academy. Kirk aims to diversify trades and digitize techniques for future generations

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