A rare and highly collectible "G-Plan" shelving unit from their "Librenza" range, produced by E. Gomme during the late 1950s to mid-1960s. Originally designed as a compact radio or record player stand, these versatile units have become sought after for their timeless Mid-Century styling and adaptability. Today, they work equally well as a drinks station, media console, display shelf, or statement piece in both contemporary and vintage interiors.
This example retains its distinctive Librenza design language, with slim black tapering legs finished with elegant brass-capped feet, sculptural uprights, and slender gold-toned support rods that give the piece a wonderfully light, architectural appearance while maintaining excellent stability.
Please note that whilst other similar units had a central divider-style shelf intended to accommodate a radio or record player, this is not present with this specific piece, allowing for a more open and versatile display space. The remainder of the shelving is original and intact, preserving the character and functionality of the design.
Introduced in the early 1950s by E. Gomme Ltd. of High Wycombe, G Plan became one of Britain's most influential furniture brands, pioneering modern, modular living at a time when traditional suite furniture dominated the home. The Librenza range remains one of the company's most recognisable and enduring collections.
Condition:
The unit has been fully restored, resealed, and restained in black to give it a refreshed, contemporary look. It is presented in excellent vintage condition, with the original shelving intact apart from the central bottom divider, and only light age-related wear consistent with its age and use. Structurally sound and ready to be styled and enjoyed. Gold Accents refreshed.
Dimensions:
105.5cm W x 31.5cm D x 93.5cm H
Height of the top shelf 85.5cm H
Shipping Information:
If you are purchasing an item and you are based in Cape Town, Durban, or any area outside Gauteng, please select the 'LOCAL PICK-UP' option at check-out and do not choose a shipment option.
Please be aware that we cannot reserve any items until transportation or shipping arrangements have been finalized. Therefore, it is important to purchase the item and proceed with the checkout process.
After your purchase is complete, you are welcome to arrange your own method of transport. If you require our assistance, we can help you obtain a shipping quote based on the dimensions & volumetric weight of the item(s) you have bought.
Please email us at shop@retrend.co.za so we can provide cost estimates for shipping to your area from our preferred suppliers. For more detailed information, please refer to our shipping policy.
Note/Disclaimer:
Our images form part of the item description. While we make every effort to restore our furniture to its original state, most pieces date from the 1950s to the late 1970s. As a result, and despite restoration, signs of their vintage nature and previous life may still be visible. Light traces of restoration may remain visible, consistent with authentic vintage furniture. In some cases, minor adjustments may also have been made during the restoration process to ensure the piece remains functional and usable. We will point out any notable aspects where possible. We encourage in-store viewing or careful review of photographs before purchase.
Transport & Handling Note:
All items are carefully wrapped and prepared for transport by us (not the courier) to ensure safe handling. Once items leave our premises, we cannot take responsibility for their treatment by third-party transporters. We strongly recommend arranging goods-in-transit insurance for comprehensive protection.
Due to the fragility of glass, we do not recommend shipping glass items outside of Gauteng.
For the full shipping policy, please refer to our Shipping Policy for more information: https://retrend.co.za/policies/shipping-policy
As with many Mid-Century pieces, this item features a thoughtful combination of solid wood and high-quality wood veneer. Veneer has a long and respected tradition in furniture making, valued for both its aesthetic and structural benefits. When crafted with skill and applied in substantial thickness, vintage veneer proves highly durable, allowing for careful restoration, including retouching, sanding, and refinishing without compromising the integrity of the piece.