Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Expert Furniture Refinishing & Restoration Services
Luhms Refinishing has dedicated over six decades to mastering the art of furniture restoration. Founded in 1953 by Ben Luhm Sr., our family-owned business has evolved from a basement workshop into a trusted name in Minneapolis and beyond. We specialize in refinishing antiques, fine furniture, and pianos, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. Our team brings decades of collective experience to every project, from residential repairs to large-scale historical restorations. We serve residential, commercial, and government clients, offering tailored solutions for insurance claims and unique restoration challenges.With a legacy of excellence, we preserve the heritage of cherished pieces while ensuring their durability for future generations. Our commitment to quality is evident in every project, from small furniture touch-ups to monumental restorations like the Saint Paul Public Library. As a third-generation business, we maintain the same dedication to precision and customer satisfaction that defined our founders' work.
Services
Furniture Refinishing
Antique Restoration
Piano Restoration
Insurance Claim Services
Commercial Furniture Repair
Structural Repairs
Veneer Restoration
Historical Preservation
Upholstery Services
Custom Wood Reproduction
Details
- Year established: 1953
Highlights and features
- We offer over 60 years of experience in furniture refinishing
- Third-generation family-owned and operated business
- Specialize in insurance claim restoration services
- Completed historical restoration projects across the country
- Provide free quotes and personalized service
What people say
Quality work
Been around forever
Preserved antiques
Excellent service
Historical projects
Services
Furniture Refinishing
Our furniture refinishing service restores antique and modern wooden furniture to its original condition. Using traditional techniques combined with modern materials, we repair damage from age, water, or fire. Our process includes structural repairs, veneer replacement, and custom finishing to match original designs. Clients benefit from our expertise in preserving historical integrity while ensuring durability for future use.
Piano Restoration
Specializing in piano restoration, we revive vintage instruments to their original acoustic and visual condition. Our services include soundboard repair, action mechanism restoration, and cabinet refinishing. We've worked on pianos for Minnesota governors and even restored one featured on a music album cover. Clients receive comprehensive restoration that maintains both musical quality and historical value.
Insurance Claim Services
We provide complete insurance claim processing for furniture damage from disasters. Our team handles assessment, documentation, pickup, storage, and restoration. With decades of experience working with insurance companies, we ensure efficient claims resolution while maintaining quality standards. Clients receive detailed reports and transparent communication throughout the restoration process.
Historical Preservation
Our historical preservation service specializes in restoring significant architectural and furniture pieces. Past projects include the Saint Paul Public Library restoration and the Rahr Malting Co. display unit. We use period-appropriate materials and techniques to maintain historical accuracy. Clients benefit from our expertise in handling complex, large-scale preservation projects with cultural significance.
Custom Wood Reproduction
We create exact replicas of damaged or missing wood components using traditional methods. Our reproduction service includes intricate carvings, moldings, and structural elements. Using steam bending and pegging techniques, we match original construction methods for authentic results. Clients receive custom solutions that maintain the integrity of antique and specialty furniture pieces.
People
Derrick Luhm
Owner
Third-generation furniture restorer with over 30 years of experience. Learned techniques directly from his father Ben Luhm Jr. and grandfather Ben Luhm Sr. Leads the business in maintaining traditional craftsmanship while adapting to modern needs. Oversees all restoration projects and client consultations.
Questions
What types of furniture do you restore?
We restore all wood furniture including antiques, modern pieces, pianos, and specialty items. Our expertise covers chairs, tables, cabinets, and large architectural wood elements.
Do you handle insurance claims?
Yes, we work directly with insurance companies to process claims for furniture damaged by fire, water, or other disasters. Our services include assessment, documentation, and complete restoration.
Are you open on weekends?
Our shop is open Monday-Friday 8am-4:30pm. We're available by appointment only on Saturdays for special consultations or project discussions.
Can you restore historical pieces?
Yes, we specialize in historical preservation projects. Our team has restored significant pieces like the Rahr Malting Co. display unit and Saint Paul Public Library furniture using period-appropriate techniques.
Do you offer piano restoration?
Yes, we specialize in piano restoration including soundboard repair, cabinet refinishing, and action mechanism restoration. We've worked on pianos for Minnesota governors and even restored one featured on a music album cover.
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