ALVA is a furniture and object design studio founded by siblings Susana Bastos, a visual artist and fashion designer, and Marcelo Alvarenga, an architect. Their projects are the result of the meeting of these two perspectives—architectural and artistic—and, beyond the usual rationality and functionality, they seek the unexpected, new uses, and expressive materiality.
The duo’s creative process begins with a sensitive observation of people’s everyday lives, their current habits and needs, along with a perception of new potentialities to be explored artistically. In developing each piece, the siblings’ technical and aesthetic background—acquired through significant experience in the architecture and fashion markets—is combined with a strong connection to their Minas Gerais and Brazilian roots. In the execution phase, the selection of raw materials and exquisite craftsmanship, often artisanal, give the works a unique character. The result is contemporary pieces rich in memory.
Alva’s first line of furniture and objects was launched in 2013 at the MADE fair (Market, Art, Design) in São Paulo. After this launch, the studio partnered with Etel—a brand now globally known for producing the best of Brazilian design—to manufacture and market some of its creations, bringing the siblings’ names into the select group of author designers represented by the brand.
Since their first launch, Susana and Marcelo’s creations have gained visibility in several major publications, on websites and in magazines, in Brazil and internationally.

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