Craftsmanship

Truly fine furniture has always demanded painstaking attention to detail-and that's still true today. Bernhardt blends modern technology and traditional craftsmanship to carry on time-honored standards of fit, finish, hardware, and construction.

Veneers & Finishes
Cabinetry Details
Tables
Drawer Construction
Hardware
Design
Upholstery

Veneers & Finishes

Veneer Characteristics

Veneers have long been used in fine furniture making and are stronger and more durable than solid wood. They resist shrinking, swelling, warping, and cracking due to humidity and other environmental changes.

Veneer Selection

Premier woods are hand-selected and matched in color and wood grain to give a consistent look to each piece while enhancing the natural beauty of the wood grain. Unusual veneers and “fancy face” patterns are often used to add decorative detail.

Finish Steps

An extensive, multi-step finish process gives each piece of furniture depth, accentuating the wood grain pattern and producing a range of finish looks from a high sheen to a natural “aged” appearance.

Cabinetry Details

Mortise & Tenon

Traditional mortise and tenon construction is used to securely fasten pieces of wood, creating a stronger joint for lasting stability.

Door & Drawer Fit Doors and drawers are constructed with a precise, tight fit to prevent gaps and sagging, enhancing their appearance and structural strength.

Tables

Table Locks & Guides

Hidden metal locks are used to reduce gaps on tables with leaves, giving the table a clean, smooth appearance and ensuring durability over time. Premium quality table glides are used to secure the piece, reducing warping and sagging and resulting in a sturdy table frame.

Corner Blocks

Table legs are constructed with strong corner blocks glued and screwed with lag bolts, increasing the overall strength and rigidity of each leg.

Drawer Construction

Materials & Finish

All wood sides and backs with veneer bottoms are used to create a durable drawer that is less likely to warp over time and humidity changes and to produce a smoother, more consistent drawer function. Each drawer bottom is stained and sealed, creating a smooth interior that is less likely to snap or damage clothes.

Stop Blocks

Wooden blocks are nailed and glued behind each drawer to ensure that the drawer stops solidly and in the proper position when closed.

Dovetails

English dovetail construction is featured in the front and back of each drawer (French dovetail is incorporated where design indicates) to deliver a durable drawer box that will remain solid over time.

Drawer Stops

Wooden stop pins are provided for each drawer with a silver tray to prevent the drawer from falling out of the case when pulled open.

Drawer Box

A full-size drawer box is used to offer increased drawer volume and maximum storage capacity. Full-size wooden guides are also used to support more cubic feet of storage.

Silver Trays

A silver tray with a tarnish-resistant cloth cover is custom fitted into a drawer in select dining room pieces to provide a protective, convenient space to store silverware.

Drawer Branding

Since 1889, the Bernhardt logo has been a symbol of quality and value, and is displayed on each piece of furniture in a solid, cast metal plate.

Hardware

Materials

Heavy duty solid metals are used to create hardware that adds beauty and durability while reducing rattling, rusting, and breakage.

Custom Design & Finish

Each collection has its own signature hardware that is custom-designed and finished using a multi-step process, adding distinction and a rich appearance to each piece.

Techniques

A range of methods such as the ancient Egyptian lost wax casting, die-casting or sand casing are used to create hardware with unique shapes, subtle markings and jewel-like details.

Design

Materials

A variety of authentic, high-quality materials sourced from around the world are used to enhance the story behind each collection and create a unique design statement.

Style

Each collection features dramatic design elements that express the story of the collection and allow consumers to reflect their own individual style.

Design Teams

Recipients of the American Society of Furniture Designer’s prestigious Pinnacle Awards, Bernhardt’s design teams are among the best in the industry, creating dramatic collections for today’s homes and lifestyles.

5-year Warranty

Bernhardt stands behind its fine wood furniture by backing it with a 5-year warranty to give consumers a feeling of confidence.

 

Upholstery

Frame Materials

Bernhardt frames utilize engineered, multi-ply hardwood plywood as well as some 4/4/” and 5/4” hardwoods. (Certain frames may also incorporate formed plywood in order to achieve certain frame contours.) All exposed wood frames employ 5/4” mixed hardwoods.

Sturdy Construction

Bernhardt’s artisans assemble upholstery frames using methods that ensure superior quality, such as sturdy mortise and tenon joints. Because corners are pressure points that must withstand stress and wear, Bernhardt craftsmen securely fasten corner blocks and braces to provide additional support and strength. Finally, they pre-test every frame for strength and durability.

History

The story of Bernhardt Furniture Company embodies the American pioneer values that forged an industrialized nation out of a wilderness. The people responsible for the early success of Bernhardt recognized the value of hard work and perseverance. They also recognized the value of loyal employees and customers who would respond to fair treatment and a commitment to quality.

The history of Bernhardt Furniture Company is a saga of opportunities recognized and realized in spite of obstacles and challenges. Today this thriving enterprise is one of the oldest family businesses in America.

John Mathias Bernhardt, founder

America was beginning to take shape in 1860 when the Bernhardt family moved to the western North Carolina town of Lenoir. John Mathias Bernhardt's rural lifestyle became even more challenging at age 13 when both of his parents died within 60 days of each other. Left to face life as orphans, John and his older brother, Lynn, eventually went to work at a local general store. But unlike his brother, who stayed in the retail trade, John was destined for adventures out west in territory that became the state of Oregon. He secured a job as a government surveyor assisting settlers in the wild frontier, a post that nearly claimed his life. Had it not been for an Indian guide who saved him from a winter bout of pneumonia, J.M . Bernhardt and Bernhardt Furniture Company would not be known to us today.

As it was, he survived this and other frontier ordeals and returned to Lenoir after three years to begin an enterprise that would become one of the country's leading manufacturers of residential and commercial furniture.

Care & Cleaning Tips

Because Bernhardt produces stylish, quality furniture, we're ready to help make sure your collection looks great for years (or generations) to come.

In this section you'll find details on our warranties, as well as expert advice on caring for both wood and upholstered furniture.

Casegood Care Tips

Each piece of Bernhardt furniture is created to provide exceptional performance with minimal care. Attention to a few basic points will help you protect your investment.

• Fine wood furniture should not be exposed to extreme heat or humid conditions, such as placing it near a heat outlet or an open window. Try to avoid direct sunlight which may cause certain finishes to fade. Every effort is made at Bernhardt to make the finish as fade-proof as possible.

• Do not place plastic, rubber or hot objects directly on a wood finish. Chemicals in plastic and some rubber may soften or discolor the finish if left in contact with the furniture for a long period of time. To avoid these markings, place a strip of felt, leather or cork under accessories.

• Every six months or so, there may be a need or desire for more thorough cleaning of wood furniture than routine dusting. The furniture may be washed with a mild soap intended for that purpose or a furniture cleaning product available in most grocery stores. Following the directions on the product, use a soft cloth and wipe with the grain. A furniture polish may be applied if a little more shine is desired.

• Spilled liquids should be wiped from the surface immediately with a soft, slightly damp cloth, in the direction of the wood grain.

• Remove household dust with a soft, clean cloth, dusting with the grain. The cloth may be dampened with a furniture dusting-aid product, or a furniture care polish may be used. Follow the manufacturer’s directions on the product. Avoid products that leave an oily film on the furniture since they may cause a clouding of the finish and have a tendency to collect dust.

• Occasional polishing with a high quality, non-silicone furniture polish will enhance the beauty of the fine Bernhardt finish. Avoid using oily polishes or waxes.

• Over time, scratches from normal use may be noticed on furniture. These can be touched up with a scratch remover or special touch-up pens or sticks available at your furniture dealer or at many paint stores.

Upholstery Care Tips

Bernhardt upholstered furniture is crafted for many years of comfort and performance. To help keep your upholstery looking new, certain precautions and cleaning instructions should be followed.

• All cushions and pillows should be reversed on a regular basis. This keeps the filling evenly distributed for maximum comfort.

• All fabrics have a cleaning code. Your salesperson will help you learn the code for the piece or pieces you have purchased.

• This piece complies with all Upholstered Furniture Action Council (UFAC) criteria established to reduce, but not necessarily eliminate, ignition of fabric and filling by a burning cigarette.

• Due to the wide range of fibers used today, it is impossible to publish cleaning instructions that apply to all fabrics. We recommend using a professional cleaning service whenever possible.

• Satisfactory results are usually achieved by cleaning with a non-water based foam cleaner, provided that manufacturer's directions are carefully adhered to. Any product or technique should always be tested on an inconspicuous area before attempting overall cleaning. Bernhardt cannot endorse any particular product or cleaning method for fabric.

• Leather Upholstery: Dust regularly with a clean dust cloth, do not use furniture polish, oils, varnishes, ammonia water, soaps or dusting agents.

• To help remove soil or stains, use lukewarm water and thoroughly clean an area of the leather that includes the stain. Avoid dabbing the stained area only. Do not rub.

• Let dry naturally and repeat if necessary.

Warranty Info

Quick Jump: Casegood Warranty Info / Upholstery Warranty Info

CASEGOODS

LIMITED WARRANTY

Bernhardt Furniture Company warrants its wood products to be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal use and service for a period of five (5) years from the date of initial shipment to the dealer. Furniture in which such defects occur will be repaired or replaced at Bernhardt Furniture Company’s option or, if replacement or repairs are not possible, alternate financial remuneration may be paid at Bernhardt’s option. This remedy is exclusive and Bernhardt Furniture Company does not authorize any person to create for it any other obligation or liability in connection with this furniture.

For clarification purposes only, the term "wood products" refers specifically to Bernhardt Case Goods products and has no implication, directly or indirectly, to any Bernhardt Upholstery products. Bernhardt Case Goods products are those products listed and displayed exclusively in the Bernhardt Case Goods products catalog, in printed form or as displayed on the Bernhardt internet web page.

This warranty applies under conditions of normal residential usage only and does not apply to defects or damage resulting from (a) negligence, abuse or misuse; (b) inadequate or improper maintenance, cleaning or care; (c) exposure to chemicals and/or liquids; (d) accidents; (e) any use for which the product was not designed; or (f) commercial usage, which includes rental, business, commercial, institutional or other non-residential use. Transportation or delivery damage is excluded.

Wood furniture is made of naturally variable raw materials. Differences in grain character and color among wood species are naturally occurring variations and are not within the control of the manufacturer nor considered defects under this warranty. Natural color changes, variations, or movements in lumber or veneer products, and exposure to extreme temperature changes and direct sunlight, may cause color changes and/or surface damage and are not covered by this warranty.

Bernhardt sometimes uses Crotch-Mahogany which is taken from areas of the tree that grow in different directions. This natural characteristic of the veneer causes tension and pulls the fibers of the wood, which can result in hairline cracks over time. This condition is considered an enhancement to the product and is excluded from this warranty.

Fabrics/Leathers: Are warranted only to the extent of the warranty provided by our suppliers on wearing, quality, colorfastness, shrinkage, wrinkling and stretching. Any type of fabric/leather protectant or treatment not applied by the fabric/leather manufacturer voids the warranty. Pilling is a characteristic of fabrics resulting from normal use and wear and is not covered under any warranty. Improper cleaning voids any warranty.

Leather is a natural material, every hide uniquely enhanced by natural features. Wrinkles, scratches, insect bites, healed scars and other natural markings should not be considered flaws. Color variations occur normally within a hide and from hide to hide as no two hides are alike.

Washed Fabrics: Some fabrics are washed to achieve a more relaxed appearance and softer feel. Wrinkling, puckering and shade variations are a natural result of washing and should not be considered defects.

Television lift mechanisms, power supplies and other electronically related components are warranted by each respective manufacturer and are excluded from this warranty.

This warranty protects you only when you purchase Bernhardt furniture from a Bernhardt Authorized Dealer. Bernhardt’s customer is the dealer. All complaints or requests for warranty service must be accompanied by your original dated proof of purchase, contain a brief written description of the defect and must be resolved through the dealer from which the furniture was purchased. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

This warranty applies only when you purchase the Bernhardt furniture for your own normal household use and terminates in the event of resale or commercial use.

This warranty does not cover (a) floor samples or products designated “AS IS” at the time of purchase; (b) differences between floor samples and your furniture, (c) differences between printed illustrations, video or internet displays and your furniture; and (d) differences between marble items, since marble is a non-manufactured natural substance and no two pieces can be expected to match perfectly either in color or pattern.

WARRANTY LIMITATIONS AND EXCLUSIONS

ANY AND ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED IN DURATION TO FIVE (5) YEARS FROM THE DATE OF INITIAL SHIPMENT TO THE AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE WARRANTY AND REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHERS, ORAL OR WRITTEN, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. IN NO EVENT WILL BERNHARDT BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR ANY DAMAGES, INCLUDING INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT.

Some States do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty will last or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.

BERNHARDT
P.O. Box 740
Lenoir, NC 28645

UPHOLSTERY

LIMITED WARRANTY

In Bernhardt’s Limited Warranty, “lifetime” is defined by the life of the original cover. Recovering the frame voids all warranties because in recovering, some or all components may be changed. This warranty does not cover damage as a result of misuse, abuse, accident, commercial use, institutional use, or shipping damage. Because of the craftsmanship involved and the natural materials used in the manufacturing process, minor variations will occur from piece to piece. Therefore, this warranty does not cover such minor differences between your furniture and: floor samples, printed illustrations, and video or internet displays.

This warranty does not cover floor samples or products designated “AS IS” at time of purchase.

All warranty periods indicated in this warranty begin on the date that your furniture is initially shipped to the Bernhardt Authorized Dealer.

Reclining Mechanisms: Bernhardt warrants to you, the original retail purchaser, protection against manufacturing defects of the black metal, patented parts of the reclining mechanism for three (3) years. This warranty applies under normal, non-commercial use.

Frames and Springs: Bernhardt warrants to you, the original retail purchaser, protection against manufacturing defects of frames and springs. This warranty applies for the lifetime of the product as long as it remains upholstered in the original fabric and is used under normal wear in normal conditions.

Cushion: Bernhardt warrants to you, the original retail purchaser, protection against abnormal loss of resiliency of the upholstered furniture, for one (1) year, as long as it is used under normal wear in normal conditions. Abnormal wear and abnormal loss of resiliency should not be confused with softening and flattening of the foam and fibers, which are considered normal wear, and are not defects.

Filling Materials: Bernhardt warrants to you, the original retail purchaser, protection against loss of resiliency of filling materials for one (1) year. Compressing of polyester with use is not considered loss of resiliency. From time to time, your Bernhardt furniture will need “fluffing up” as any upholstered furniture should be regulated with use.

Sleeper Mechanism: Bernhardt warrants to you, the original retail purchaser, protection against manufacturing defects of the sleeper mechanisms for three (3) years. This warranty applies under normal, non-commercial use. Mattress: Bernhardt warrants to you, the original retail purchaser, protection against manufacturing defects and the loss of foam resiliency of the innerspring sleeper mattress, excluding cover, for five (5) years, under normal, non-commercial conditions. Softening of foam is a normal condition and does not constitute the loss of resilience.

Fabrics: Are warranted only to the extent of the warranty provided to Bernhardt by its fabric suppliers. Since manufacturers of upholstery fabrics do not guarantee their products for wearing quality, color-fastness, shrinkage, wrinkling and stretching, those properties are not covered under this warranty.

This warranty also does not cover fabric protectors that have not been applied by the fabric manufacturer, since they may cause latex deterioration, seam slippage, discoloration and may damage filler materials.

This warranty protects you only when you purchase Bernhardt furniture from a Bernhardt Authorized Dealer. If you find a problem, all claims for warranty service must be accompanied by your original proof of purchase, contain a brief written description of the defect and must be made through the retailer where the upholstered furniture was purchased. There are some repairs that can be taken care of in your home and your authorized dealer will handle those repairs. If the dealer feels that factory service is needed, Bernhardt will make arrangements to pick up your furniture from the retailer, make any repairs necessary and return it to your retailer. Bernhardt is not responsible for transportation costs from your home to the retailer, nor are we responsible for transportation costs to and from our factory service center two (2) years after the date that your furniture is initially shipped to the Bernhardt Authorized Dealer.

WARRANTY LIMITATIONS AND EXCLUSIONS

ANY AND ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, ARE LIMITED TO THE DURATION OF THE EXPRESS WARRANTY ON THIS PRODUCT, AND ON THE PARTICULAR PORTION OR PART OF THE PRODUCT IN QUESTION. THE WARRANTY AND REMEDIES SET FORTH ABOVE ARE EXCLUSIVE AND IN LIEU OF ALL OTHERS, ORAL OR WRITTEN, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED. IN NO EVENT WILL BERNHARDT BE LIABLE TO YOU FOR ANY DAMAGES, INCLUDING INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, ARISING OUT OF THE USE OR INABILITY TO USE THIS PRODUCT.

Some States do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty will last or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.

BERNHARDT
P.O. Box 740
Lenoir, NC 28645