From a young age, André Mellone knew he was destined to be a creative. Born and raised in São Paulo, he grew up surrounded by great craftsmanship thanks in large part to his father, the acclaimed industrial designer Oswaldo Mellone. After studying at Syracuse University and spending a formative year in Florence immersed in classical design, Mellone landed in New York City and began his career at Robert A. M. Stern Architects. From there, he moved fluidly between penning buildings and interiors.
After some persuading from friends, he launched Studio Mellone in 2012, making a name for himself with masculine spaces that are both thoughtfully composed and quietly dramatic. His portfolio spans everything from private homes to boutiques for clients such as the 1916 Company, Fernando Jorge, and Thom Browne. “The greatest thing about having your own business is really being able to explore your own language,” the 56-year-old says. Now, more than a decade in—and with a new downtown Manhattan studio to show for it—Mellone reflects on what continues to shape his world.
What is the first thing you do in the morning?
I try not to look at my phone. Sometimes I lose that battle, but I try. I’m lucky that I have a terrace. I make my coffee and sit out on the terrace when it’s sunny. Just being outside is a nice way to start the day.
What apps do you use the most?
I’m embarrassed to say Instagram. I have a love-hate relationship with that thing. I’m totally addicted to it. It’s horrible. I also have an app called PerfectCrop. I’m obsessed with that because it has to do with cropping images, photos, and drawings.
What do you do that’s still analog?
I draw. I can’t use computers.
Mellone at his drafting table.
Evelyn Freja
Who is your guru?
Philip Glass, the musician. But he doesn’t know he’s my guru.
What in your wardrobe do you wear most often?
A polo shirt, hands down. A lot of Lacoste. Nothing has changed since I was a teenager in Brazil.
How would you describe your look?
Suburban dad.
Compasses and other tools of the trade.
Evelyn Freja
How do you find calm?
I look at old photos of Brazil and my family.
What’s your favorite cocktail, and how do you make it?
The caipirinha, obviously. My mother taught me because she would make me do it for her.
What’s the most recent thing you’ve added to your collection?
I bought an aluminum credenza by Acerbis, which is an Italian furniture group that was very prolific in the ’70s.
An Acerbis aluminum credenza.
Evelyn Freja
What’s the most impressive dish you cook?
Thanksgiving turkey. I’m not a cook, but I challenged myself. I said, “I’m gonna follow [Melissa Clark’s] New York Times recipe to a science,” and it was the best turkey ever.
Who is your dealer, and what do they source for you?
Dobrinka Salzman and Nancy Gabriel. Those are my favorite furniture dealers here in New York.
What is your exercise routine, and how often do you do it?
Four times a week with a trainer. We box, run, lift weights. And I try to sneak in one day of swimming. I’ve always done sports.
What does success look like to you?
Peace of mind. An open, clear horizon.
If you could learn a new skill, what would it be?
I would play the bass [guitar]. I think it’s super sexy and powerful.
Watercolor illustrations from one of his notebooks.
Evelyn Freja
How much do you trust your gut instinct?
A lot, but I don’t follow it, unfortunately. I need to marry the two.
Where do you get your clothes?
I have a relationship with Hermès, so occasionally they’ll force me to get some stuff. [Laughs] But if I see something that I feel is going to be part of my wardrobe for 20 years, I’ll buy it.
Are you wearing a watch? How many do you own?
I’m wearing an Hermès [H08] watch. It’s a loaner, but I told them that I’m never going to give it back. I also own an IWC [Portugieser Ref. IW500121]. You have to wind it. It was a gift from a very dear friend.
His IWC Portugieser Chronograph.
Evelyn Freja
When was the last time you completely unplugged?
Unfortunately, I really don’t remember. If I’m being honest, even on vacation, it’s hard. But that’s something I want to be able to do.
Who do you admire most, and why?
My dad. He’s an interesting, complicated guy but very truthful to himself. His whole life, he never budged. I admire that.
Last piece of advice you gave?
Don’t worry so much. It’s just decorating.
What’s your favorite hotel?
Amanyara in Turks and Caicos. Talk about unplugging. That was probably the last time I unplugged. It was maybe 10 years ago.
What is your email etiquette?
Reply fast. Reply right away.
What’s always in your hand luggage?
Dental floss and a pair of tweezers.
The tweezers that are always in his hand luggage.
Evelyn Freja
What’s worth paying for?
Traveling well.
Last film you paid to see?
Superman. I loved it.
Last streaming binge?
I watched a European series about the life of Cristóbal Balenciaga. It was great.
What kind of music makes you happy?
Burt Bacharach.
Authors
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Abby Montanez