Eichler for Everyone

EVERY MID CENTURY MODERN HOME tells a historical story— and Aletha VanderMaas is determined to preserve and continue those stories for the next generation. Aletha, the designer and curator of True Home Restorations has a weakness for old houses. She restores and provides interior design for homes built between 1950 and 1975. “I stick to that age range because mid century homes excite me the most,” she says. Aletha fi nds unparalleled beauty and craftsmanship in the details of these homes, from the built- ins and simple wood slab doors to the original bathroom tilework and Roman brick. “I think all of these elements are underappreciated,” she says. “I feel that if I can save them, and explain why they are awesome, a whole new generation will appreciate them.”

Aletha spent the fi rst fi ve years of her career at a publishing company, then took that experience and opened her own wedding planning and design business. Next, as fate would have it, she purchased a mid century home and spent a year renovating it alongside her husband. “I decided I loved the process enough to assist others doing the same,” she says. “After a decade in the wedding industry, I translated that experience into working on mid century homes.” True Home Restorations quickly became the go- to resource for homeowners seeking to restore their mid century homes to their original glory rather than renovating them beyond recognition.

In Aletha’s hands, Mid Century Modern homes fi nd their true character once again. Due to their history, each home’s renovation project is different, and Aletha knows to expect the unexpected. “Usually, these homes have seen various revisions over the years, so until we start peeling back the layers, we don’t know what we are dealing with. It’s always interesting to see what we uncover.” She studies time- capsule homes to see what sorts of elements she can work into houses that have been stripped of original elements and works closely with her clients to create mod spaces that echo their personal style.

• Location: True Home Restorations is based in Grand Haven, Michigan. Aletha primarily works in western Michigan but, thanks to the Internet, is able to work with clients just about anywhere.

• Style: Aletha’s style is true to classic Mid Century Modern design, though she does adjust depending on what her client prefers.

• Known for: Kitchen redesign is one of her hallmarks, and she’s known for making kitchens look original to the house but with a fresh and updated feeling.

• Favorites: A classic Knoll marble tulip table.

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