A long-standing small business in Durham Region is preparing to close its doors, marking the end of an era for both the owner and the local community. Sandra Dee Furniture Refinishing in Pickering will officially shut down at the end of March after more than a decade of restoring and transforming furniture.
Owner Michael Lehikoinen, who took over the business in 2013, announced that March 31, 2026 will be the final day of operations. The decision comes after a combination of financial pressures and changing economic conditions that made it increasingly difficult to continue running the business.
Lehikoinen described the situation as a “perfect storm,” citing rising material costs and an unpredictable economic climate as key factors behind the closure. Rather than waiting until circumstances forced a shutdown, he chose to make the decision proactively.
Since taking ownership, Lehikoinen built a reputation for bringing worn, damaged and sentimental furniture pieces back to life. His passion for woodworking and restoration played a central role in the business, allowing customers across Pickering and the wider Durham Region to preserve meaningful items rather than replace them.
He explained that while he didn’t see himself as someone who creates entirely new pieces, his strength was in restoring and rebuilding what already existed. This approach resonated strongly with customers, many of whom brought in furniture with deep personal value, including items damaged by fire or simply worn down over time.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the work, Lehikoinen said, was seeing the emotional reactions from customers when they received their restored furniture. In some cases, the transformations were so meaningful that clients were moved to tears.
Beyond the craftsmanship, the business also played a role in the local community. Lehikoinen worked closely with staff, vendors and even local school boards through co-op programs, helping students gain hands-on experience in the trade.
As he prepares to close this chapter, Lehikoinen expressed gratitude to the community for their support over the years. He thanked customers for trusting him with their valued possessions and acknowledged the relationships built throughout his time running the business.
While he has not yet finalized his next steps, Lehikoinen remains optimistic about the future. He indicated that his next venture will likely stay connected to his passion for working with his hands and restoring materials.
The closure of Sandra Dee Furniture Refinishing reflects broader challenges faced by small businesses across Ontario, particularly in specialized trades. For many in Pickering and across Durham Region, the shop’s closing represents not just the loss of a service, but the end of a trusted local business that brought new life to old memories.
