Armand Lee & Company

Specialties

Armand Lee provides unmatched resources for designers, whether they are involved with residential or commercial clients, regardless of traditional, contemporary or eclectic taste.

From the handcrafting of fine art frames to fabricating displays for three-​dimensional art, Armand Lee lends that distinctive touch. Our skilled artisans use authentic, time-​proven techniques and materials. Contemporary art, objects, furnishings and accessories are treated as if they, too, will one day be valued antiques.

Armand Lee is well known for its exquisite framing. The artisans of Armand Lee also conserve artwork and restore antique furnishings, frames and accessories. Wherever appropriate or indicated, archival methods are employed. Museum-​recognized techniques and procedures are utilized in the sensitive treatment of each valued item.

History

Established in 1940.

Armand Lee, a salesman for Mueller Brothers frame manufacturing, opened Armand Lee & Company in the early 1940s. The company catered to the under-​served interior design and fine arts community, providing custom, fine-​art framing services. From the very beginning, Armand Lee offered a wide range of frame profiles, styles and finishes. In addition to offering frames constructed of factory length molding, they specialized in finished-​corner custom frames manufactured entirely on-​site. For almost 40 years, Armand Lee & Company was a respected resource for art-​lovers and interior designers in the greater Chicago area.

By 1980, the company began to falter along with Armand Lee’s health. Norman P. Olson bought the company in June of 1983 with the intention of reinvigorating its name and reputation. He has since reestablished Armand Lee & Company as Chicago’s premier art and decorative accessory presentation and conservation resource.