Do You Know Mel Smilow?

To welcome the coming of spring we’re highlighting Smilow Design. Smilow Design continues a legacy of fine and timeless design. Working with regional craftsmen, the studio produces a collection of mid-century furniture originally designed by Mel Smilow, as well as its own line of accessories.

Continue reading to find out more about Smilow Design.

Left: Photo of Mel Smilow taken in the 1950s, when he was the co-owner and sole designer of Smilow-Thielle. Right: September 1975 cover of the New York Times magazine, featuring the Rush Armchair

Mel Smilow (1922–2002) designed and retailed modern furniture through his six independently owned stores from 1949 through the late 1970’s. A champion of affordable, finely crafted, modern design —his work has been recognized and coveted by collectors and well appreciated by his loyal customers for over 50 years. Because of Mel’s dedication to his vision, he became a household name and his pieces can still be found within countless homes across America.

Judy Smilow grew up “modern” in Usonia, a Frank Lloyd Wright cooperative community in New York surrounded by her father, Mel’s, artwork and furniture. Through the glass walls of her family home, she looked upon wooded surroundings and integrated architecture that would define her own design aesthetic: natural, simple, and modern.

In 2002, Judy Smilow rediscovered the original drawings of her father’s furniture designs. Struck by the designs, and how their aesthetic was relevant to modern day, Judy was inspired to bring the enduring and classic designs to a contemporary market.

Left: Mel’s design process started with rough sketches, where he was able to get a better feel for the proportions. Here is an exquisite example of his process from when he was developing the Woven Leather Armchair. Right: Reissued Woven Leather Armchair.

These designs would perfectly complement Judy’s own design aesthetic, and Smilow Design would be formed to present the classic furniture to a new generation of customers.

Smilow Woven Leather Armchair, Rush Armchair and Rush Bench at Mint

Modern designs, mid-century heritage

Faithfully based on Mel Smilow’s original drawings, Smilow’s furniture represents the best of mid-century modern design, interpreted for today.

The solid walnut High-Back Rail Back Armchair was originally designed by Mel Smilow in 1950 and has been reissued by Smilow Design with the finest craftsmanship and exceptional detail.

Classic Craftsmanship

Smilow furniture is made from solid American hardwoods. Each piece is precision cut, shaped, and carefully fit together by skilled craftsmen.

J. Crew model relaxing in two Smilow Furniture classics, featured in J. Crew’s February ’16 Style Guide

New edition Black Rush bench

The Ash Bench in Black Rush is a study in contrasts. The dramatic black rush against the beautiful light grain of the ash wood is a contemporary twist on the classic rush bench.

“There wasn’t a single compromise in quality. That was his goal from the very beginning.”

Mint is proud to present Smilow’s designs, presenting classic design in a contemporary environment. We look forward to seeing what the next 50 years hold!

Images courtesy of Smilow Design LLC and Mint