A Creative Guide & Road Trip to Marfa, TX
Discover the best things to do on a Houston-to-Marfa road trip — art spaces, local shops, great food, the Chinati Foundation, and a cozy stay at Onera in Fredericksburg.
Our Story
Melanie in her Oakland, CA woodshop. 
About Melanie Abrantes Designs
At Melanie Abrantes Designs, we create handcrafted pieces rooted in simplicity, timelessness, and a deep respect for natural materials like Portuguese cork and FSC-certified wood.
Based in Porto, Portugal and the Bay Area in California, we bring together global craft traditions with a modern point of view. Founder Melanie Abrantes believes that in order to create something beautiful, you have to get your hands dirty.
This philosophy guides our blend of traditional craftsmanship, thoughtful design, and a distinctly feminine perspective. Education and community sit at the heart of our work, inspiring us to teach, share, and support new crafters while fostering an inclusive space where creativity thrives. Every object is made with ethical practices, transparent sourcing, and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring each piece is both functional and artful.
Above all, we believe in design with conscience, work shaped by care, intention, and the belief that everyone deserves access to the joy of craft.