MAD House
MAD House started as a space to connect and inspire creatives.
About
MAD House is the latest chapter in designer Melanie Abrantes’ creative journey, bringing her work from Oakland, California, to Porto, Portugal.
For the past 10 years, Melanie has been coming to Porto to work with local artisans and makers, building relationships and becoming deeply connected to the city’s creative community. She always dreamed of creating a space where that spirit of making could be shared with others.
Formerly the studio of architect Adalberto Dias, the house has a creative history of its own. In 2022, Melanie teamed up with Porto-based Fala Atelier to give the space a new life. What began as a renovation became a three-year project, thoughtfully transforming the house into something modern, colorful, warm, and distinctly MAD.
Today, MAD House is the second studio of Melanie Abrantes Designs and a creative home for artists, designers, makers, and other curious people. Through residencies, workshops, and gatherings, MAD House is a place to live, work, make, and connect in Porto.
About Melanie:
Born in Houston, Texas, Melanie studied product design at Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles. In 2013, she founded Melanie Abrantes Designs in Oakland, focusing on handcrafted, sustainable home goods made of wood and cork. Her passion for Portuguese craftsmanship and desire to connect with her heritage led her to establish a new studio in Porto.
MAD House Info
Architects
Fala Atelier - Porto, Portugal
Filipe Magalhães & Joana Sendas
Pomo Landscapes - Porto, Portugal