Melanie’s Playful Potrero Hill Apartment

Name: Melanie Abrantes (and her boyfriend Rick Gibb)
Location: Potrero Hill — San Francisco, California
Size: 500 square feet
Years lived in: 6 months; Rented

We recently shared Melanie Abrantes’ fantastic Oakland studio, and today we’re getting a glimpse into her San Francisco apartment. Melanie’s playful personality is seen in every inch of the 500-square-foot home. From her quirky collection of llama figurines to the modern, happy hue of the living/dining room wall, there are hints of her lighthearted approach to design throughout the space.

Melanie’s love for plants is not only reflected in her studio space but in her apartment, as well. Her favorite room in the house is not what one would expect—she picked the bathroom because of the superb light and the humidity-loving plants that hang in the shower.

My Style: Modern, eclectic, vintage, and playful

Inspiration: We are inspired by our travels to Brazil, Portugal, and Asia. We try to incorporate a little bit of those adventures in every corner.

Favorite Element: Our bathroom is a mini-jungle and has the best view in the house

Biggest Challenge: Not enough windows for my plant obsession! I keep buying them but they all end up in my studio.

What Friends Say: “Your home has the best view!”

Biggest Embarrassment: The weird hallway that enters into the house; it’s not apart of our actual apartment but it is the first thing you see!

Proudest DIY: Our bed frame! I made it with an old Indian room divider and planks of alder slabs. It was a fun afternoon project!

Biggest Indulgence: I have a soft spot for handmade designer goods… support small business!

Best Advice: Start small and build with pieces you love.

Dream Sources: Craigslist, CB2, Pinterest, design magazines, West Elm, DWR

• Bookshelf: IKEA
• Knickknacks: vintage
• Yellow candleholder: Menu
• Cork planter: Melanie Abrantes Designs
• Alpaca: Peru
• Rocking chair: Eames
• Mirror: IKEA Hovet
• Sectional sofa: DWR Bilsby
• Throw pillows: Marimekko
• Magazine holder: vintage

• Table: CB2 Public High
• Barstools: Steelcase
• Lamp: Caravan Pacific Sullivan

• Vintage cabinet: thrift store
• Gradient vase: Christoper Basil Fong
• Cocktail bar set: Crate & Barrel
• Cork champagne bucket: a special present made for my boyfriend
• Seasonal Fruit & Vegetable print: Young America Creative

• Bed frame: DIY using a vintage Indian room divider and planks of alder
• Cork lamp: Melanie Abrantes Designs
• Bedsheets: IKEA
• Table: Melanie Abrantes Designs
• Vintage dresser: thrift store
• Vintage desk: thrift store

• Cork hanging planter: Melanie Abrantes Designs
• Cloud ceramics: Haand

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