In a newly renovated Upper East Side apartment filled with refined decor, Mitchell showcases his passion for design through a remarkable collection of furniture and art. The rooms are thoughtfully appointed with pieces ranging from the iconic to the obscure, creating an inviting atmosphere far from the sterile confines of a museum. This warmth is evident in every corner, establishing the space as a genuine home shared with his wife, Pilar Guzman, a noted editor.
The design philosophy of ‘Patina Modern’ permeates the space, reflecting a commitment to warmth and quality that Mitchell and Guzman encapsulated in their 2022 book. This approach prioritizes timeless materials such as white oak and aged brass, allowing pieces to develop a rich patina over time. As highlighted in their writing, mid-century furniture rendered with a limited palette can evolve into something richer and more inviting.
Mitchell, who grew up near Chicago, attributes his early interest in design to his surroundings. Influenced by his father’s work in advertising and the interiors column in Esquire, he yearned for sophistication and modernity in his concept of home. This aspiration led him to a lifelong passion for design, particularly the sleek aesthetics of modernism.
After earning a master’s degree in publishing at NYU, Mitchell climbed the ranks at Condé Nast, ultimately serving as chief business officer for several well-regarded publications. He recalls formative moments with Guzman and a discovery of Scandinavian design that shaped his future. These experiences allowed him to build a collection informed not by fleeting trends but by genuine curiosity.
His passion led him to encounter remarkable pieces that captivated him, such as the Finn Juhl 45 chair. The intricate craftsmanship and modern design opened his eyes to a new level of beauty in furniture. This revelation in the late 90s became the catalyst for his journey into self-education, bolstered by insights from respected dealers along the way.
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Mitchell’s affinity for sculptural pieces is clear in his collection, which includes iconic designs like Hans Wegner’s Wishbone chairs and Arne Jacobsen’s Egg chairs, known for their distinctive caramel leather finish. With over 30 variations of the Borge Mogensen Spanish chair, he has nurtured both tradition and innovation within the realm of design. Although many pieces were lost during moves, his passion for curation remains strong.
Relocating to the Upper East Side, Mitchell and Guzman have infused their apartment with new life, merging beloved past pieces with recent acquisitions to create a dynamic and personal environment. Recent projects have allowed them to incorporate smaller, easier-to-arrange finds, such as exquisite items by Carl Auböck and Dansk tableware. The brass vessels designed by Pierre Forssell stand out in his collection, embodying a sense of permanence and timeless beauty.
