Christine Mechelse transforms forgotten vintage treasures into stunning focal points, building a design philosophy that honors history while embracing contemporary living. We sat down with her to discuss her journey from passionate furniture restorer to Owner and Principal Interior Designer of HouseHome.

Early Beginnings & Passion: What first drew you to vintage furniture restoration?

"I've had a lifelong love affair with historic design—from architecture to furniture and decor. Pieces from the past were crafted with such skill and intention, an artistry that's becoming increasingly rare. When I discovered estate sales, I was captivated not just by the quality of these forgotten treasures, but by their stories. Learning the history behind each piece became essential to my process, tales I would later share with their new owners. I approached each restoration knowing that my hands were continuing a legacy, preserving both monetary value and sentimental worth."

Do you remember the first piece you ever restored?

"My first restoration remains in the family—an 1880s china hutch I found at a thrift store for just $20. The moment I spotted it, I could visualize its potential. There's something deeply fulfilling about giving new life to discarded pieces; I often feel I'm rescuing history itself. That hutch lived in my kitchen for a decade before becoming a 'new' family heirloom for my daughter. I filled it with vintage dishware; she uses it for books—proving beautiful pieces adapt through generations."

How did you learn restoration techniques?

"Pure trial and error taught me everything I know. Financial constraints meant formal training wasn't an option, so I taught myself through experimentation. I often had to start over completely, but each challenge was worth it. Every restoration became a labor of love."

Evolution to Interior Design: At what point did you realize you wanted to expand from furniture restoration to full interior design?

"Design has always been my passion—starting with architecture initially. My dedication to high-quality furniture naturally expanded to envisioning complete spaces where these pieces could truly shine. Seeing my restored treasures come alive within a cohesive environment I created brings an incomparable sense of fulfillment."

How does your background in restoration influence your approach to interior design?

"My restoration work trained my eye to see potential where others see problems. I can walk into homes that owners consider beyond salvaging and immediately visualize their transformation. Finding beauty in the discarded or overlooked translates perfectly from furniture to entire spaces—breathing new life into both is what drives me."

What historical design periods most inspire your work?

"Art Deco has a special place in my heart. We recently spent over three years renovating a 1926 home with stunning quarter-sawn oak features throughout. Working with architects and contractors, we carefully relocated and restored original lighting, woodwork, and French doors while ensuring modern additions flowed seamlessly with the historic elements."

Business Growth: What was the turning point that transformed your restoration hobby into a successful design business?

"After years of furniture restoration, I began helping friends style their homes as a creative outlet. What started as a gift for friends quickly spread through word-of-mouth when one recommendation led to my first paying client. From there, it organically evolved into a full-scale interior design firm. The business grew naturally from passion and reputation rather than strategic planning. Now we have the strategic planning too, and we’re growing like crazy. The culture of HouseHome is still the same, though, where I came from continues to drive our business model."

Please reach out to me with any questions -- I'd love to share a vision with you on your next project in making a house, a home!