The Hands Behind the Glass
Melanie (Lea) – Founder & Fused Glass Specialist
Lea’s Loft Art Studio has been my dream for as long as I can remember. But the Lord had other plans—a 20-year detour as an accountant in the corporate world, building skills, patience, and precision that I didn’t know I’d one day pour into glass.
Everyone knows me as Melanie, but I was christened with my grandmother’s names, Lea being the first. It’s her name that lives on in this studio and in the signature on every piece I create.
In 2015, by the grace of God, I survived breast cancer. That experience changed everything. With the unwavering support of my wonderful husband Nic, I turned my dream into reality at the end of 2016—and Lea’s Loft was born.
My husband and I have always been fascinated by the properties of glass—the way light moves through it, the way heat transforms it, the way color and texture come alive in the kiln. That fascination led me to learn the art of fused glass, and I haven’t looked back since.
The possibilities of fused glass are endless, and I’m here to help you discover them—whether you’re commissioning a custom piece, learning a new technique, or simply exploring the magic of glass for the first time.
Welcome to the reality of my dream.
Patrys (Juanita) – Creative Designer
Patrys is the creative force behind many of our most intricate designs. With an artist’s eye and a maker’s hands, she brings bold ideas to life—transforming glass into installations, crockery, and one-of-a-kind pieces that define spaces and captivate viewers.
Her passion for color, texture, and experimentation pushes the boundaries of what fused glass can be. Patrys brings energy, ingenuity and a deep love for the craft.
Laoni – Sales, Marketing & Customer Experience
Laoni makes sure the world knows about the magic happening in our studio. From managing our online shop to connecting with customers, she handles the sales and marketing side of Lea’s Loft—so Melanie and Patrys can focus on what they do best: creating incredible glass art.
Passionate about building relationships, solving problems, and making sure every customer—whether you’re ordering supplies, commissioning a piece, or booking a workshop—has a seamless, joyful experience with us.
Together, We Are Lea’s Loft
We’re a team of glass artists, creators and dreamers based in Rustenburg. Every piece we create—from large-scale architectural installations to delicately formed jewellery — is crafted with passion, precision, and years of expertise.
We don’t just sell glass. We live it. We teach it. We transform it into art that defines spaces and inspires creativity.
Whether you’re commissioning a custom installation, stocking your studio, or learning the craft for the first time, you’re working with people who genuinely love what they do.
Welcome to Lea’s Loft. Let’s create something beautiful together.
