Born and raised in Alaska, Melissa has always found inspiration in the landscapes around her. Her passion for design started early, hosting childhood art shows where room scenes and nature sketches sold for a few cents each. That same playful curiosity now fuels her professional work, where she explores the power of place and the beauty of thoughtful design.
Melissa lives in Anchorage with her husband, Paul, and their four fur babies. Art and creativity are her passion and hobby, you’ll find her painting in oils or experimenting with mixed media. For Melissa, creativity is both grounding and limitless, a way to connect people to the natural world she calls home.

This is one of Melissa’s favorite projects because it beautifully blends purposeful design with cultural meaning. The work allowed her to support an environment where Alaska Native traditions, early learning, and community connection come together in a way that feels both authentic and uplifting. The collaboration with families, educators, and cultural leaders made the process deeply rewarding, and creating spaces that nurture belonging, discovery, and joy for young children was truly inspiring. It’s a project that reflects the heart of our mission: designing with intention, respect, and lasting impact.
A collection of thoughts that drive the team at Explore Design.