New Muskego Business Gives Facelift to Old Designs

There is always that item in your home that you hang onto for senimental reasons, but just doesn't "fit" with your tastes or your home's style.

Nicole Hahne, owner of a new shop in Muskego called Serendipity Redesign, has made a career out of such material relationships.

"I've always enjoyed doing this, it's my passion," Hahne said of her knack in transforming outdated household items into attractive and usable pieces that can once again take part in current home decor.

"It's rewarding to take something that's been around forever, repurpose it and give it a new life; something that's endearing doesn't have to be thrown out," she said.

Hahne has combined her experience in interior design and fashion with a keen eye for what else furniture can be. Her family members have become her accomplices, often spotting items left at the end of driveways for her to rescue, redesign and restore.

We stopped into Serendipity, which is located at the corner of Parkland Drive and Janesville Road, and had a lot of "Oh, that's a great idea!" moments. An old Goodwill dresser, repainted, modified and made into a stylish buffet side table. A chair that was dressed up with a new seat cushion, courtesy of a former shower curtain. 

Hahne said more people are looking to repurpose, in part because of the economy, but also because "there's just so much stuff out there, and I think people are realizing the value in keeping what they have and doing something new with it."

If you aren't that creative, you can take a walk through Hahne's shop, which will be open for a sneak preview Wednesday from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. and grand opening Thursday through Saturday.

Down the road, Hahne also hopes to feature classes to help others expand their creativity and imagination, as well as hosting ladies nights for a little socialization and community spirit. As the weather warms, further improvements to the exterior of the building, including a little garden area, will add to the charm.

Serendipity will be open Tuesday 2:30 to 8:30 p.m., Wednesday and Thursday 10:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Friday 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

For more information, visit their Facebook page or their website soon to come.