Greetings fellow explorer
My name is Christine Hansen, a storyteller at heart, with a passion for history, heritage, and sustainable restoration. I hold a PhD from The Australian National University, where I explored the intersection of people, place, and time in the Snowy Mountains. My career as a curator at the National Museum of Australia allowed me to connect people with their past through compelling narratives, and a decade in Sweden, as an academic with the Historical Studies at the University of Gothenburg, introduced me to the concept of ‘byggnadsvard’—a philosophy focused on the conservation and reuse of built heritage, which continues to inspire my work today.
In 2019, after returning to Australia and settling in Launceston, I was looking for a new creative outlet and after completing Sarah Andrew’s Hosting Masterclass, my passion for conservation was reignited and in finding the dilapidated heritage cottage on Twiss Street, I saw an opportunity for transformation.
Using natural paints and locally sourced materials, I transformed the cottage solo into a sustainable, creatively restored space. This project led me to create The Patina Factory, a studio dedicated to crafting eco-friendly artisan finishes.
Through workshops and consultations, I share my knowledge on blending creativity, sustainability, and heritage preservation. My range of lime washes reflects my commitment to eco-conscious design and craftsmanship, offering natural beauty that’s both timeless and sustainable.
Twiss Street Cottage - a restored piece of the area’s rich history, is now available for holiday stays, elopements, special events,s and photography shoots. If you’re looking for a peaceful space surrounded by history and natural beauty, book here
I also offer workshops, consultations, and my lime washes through The Patina Factory. If you're interested in sustainable restoration or artisan finishes, you can learn more and connect with me here.