Check out Melissa's Scandinavian interior with vintage twist
With her family, Melissa lives in a cozy 1930s home. During the week she works as a communications consultant at a college, and in her free time she is busy with interior styling and photography. The interior is a unique blend of Scandinavian design with vintage thrift store finds. Complemented by personal items that provide individual character.
Characteristic 1930s home
Seven years ago, Melissa and her husband found this unique house in Rotterdam. Originally owned by a denomination and once inhabited by nuns, it was the home of a church. It was love at first sight because of the authentic 1930s elements, such as the original front door, granite floor in the hall and the stained-glass windows. Considerable remodeling was done, but keeping the original details. A wall was taken out, creating an open living kitchen. New walls came in and a fireplace was installed on the old ductwork. All the furniture from their previous home moved with them so they could get a step-by-step feel for what was still missing. This created an interior that is not only beautiful but truly alive.
“I entered the home and I felt: this is our home.”
From passion to platform
Melissa combines her love of images and interior design on her instagram account @opdepost. Originally intended as a practice space for her photography course, it grew into a place where she takes her followers inside the colorful home. From the living room to the bedroom and children's rooms, everything is thoughtfully and tastefully captured. For anyone who loves a playful mix of Scandinavian interiors and vintage finds, her feed is a must-follow.
Vintage love and DIY
A true thrift fanatic, that's what Melissa can be called. She has a nose for unique vintage items. Her living style is a playful mix of Scandinavian design. Second-hand pearls, heirlooms and personal touches. One of the eye-catchers in the home is the gallery wall above the sofa, a carefully curated collection of travel memories. In addition to her sense of style, Melissa is a true do-it-yourselfer. For example, she made the wall lamp above the sofa herself from a thrift store find. But painting or wallpapering a wall is also a snap.
“Painting and taking off wallpaper works therapeutically for me.”
The search for the perfect sofa
When it was time for a new sofa, Melissa came in contact with By SIDDE through the VTWonen&Design fair. After visiting the showroom in Leerdam, her choice fell on the corner sofa Finn in the color Frosted Blue, a fresh addition to the interior. The bench's railing does not run all the way through, which creates an airy feel while leaving the homemade radiator conversion in the bay window visible. The corner of the designer sofa forms the whole family's favorite spot. Ideal for relaxing with your legs stretched out, watching TV or just enjoying the view outside.
Live first, choose second!
A big tip from Melissa for people who are moving or redecorating: take your time. Feel free to enlist the help of an interior stylist, or dare to experiment on your own. You don't have to decide everything at once. Go live first before you start decorating. Experience the spaces, see the light. Test wall colors on paper in different places in the house, and feel what the space needs.
“Don't be scared on mistakes: you can always repaint a wall.”
Instagram: @opdepost
Want to see more inspiration? Check out our 'look inside' page!
