The Selection of Mario Milana

It’s with great pleasure that we share a selection of favorite pieces from our catalogue, handpicked by Mario Milana—a close friend and one of the most effortlessly stylish individuals we know. Known for his impeccable taste and as a go-to source for sartorial advice, Mario has built a reputation not just as a designer, but as someone who truly understands the connection between design, craftsmanship, and the life it enriches. His approach is deeply thoughtful, and every piece he creates is infused with his personal touch and genuine appreciation for quality and simplicity.

Born in Milan and trained at the Istituto Europeo del Design, Mario has worked with design luminaries like Alessi, Artemide, and Zanotta, before founding his own studio in 2014. His work blurs the lines between traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design, infusing each piece with a sense of playfulness and dynamism. Mario’s approach to design is deeply personal—he seeks to create pieces that surprise, engage, and connect with the people who use them. Whether collaborating with artisans or exploring the interaction between the body and objects, his work focuses on the emotional resonance of everyday design.

Having lived in New York City for over twenty years, Mario’s return to Milan marked a rediscovery of his roots. Now, as a father and a husband, he looks at the city with fresh eyes, drawing inspiration from its rich history and the artisans who continue to create with care. As you explore his curated selections, you’ll discover a collection that mirrors Mario’s unique perspective—one that blends thoughtful design with a deep appreciation for materials, history, and human connection.

We hope you enjoy exploring Mario’s choices as much as we have enjoyed sharing them with you.

The Selections of Mario

1. PAGAN DINNER PLATES

I absolutely love Enza Fasano’s work—perhaps in part because of my Pugliese origins! This particular set of dinner plate is particularly striking. I spent many summers in my family’s trulli in Martina Franca where I would admire the pagan symbols that are a language of their own.

2. RITA BOWL

Another beautiful piece by Enza Fasano. So simple yet so elegant. I am particularly drawn to the balance between the unrefined terracotta exterior and the glossy solid green interior. That tone is able to present any food in a striking way.

3. LURI NAPKIN

My wife Gabriella and I own a few sets these napkins, and they are the ones we reach for the most. The color selection is warm and refined and elevates any place setting. Linen is also my favourite textile when it comes to tactile connection. When you use these napkins you can feel the material is of the highest quality that was kept intact by the use of natural dying.

4. NATALIA EGG CUP

I am a big egg guy. I love the concept of the egg cup because it brings a kind of ritualistic quality to the experience. It is almost a way to pay respect to the egg itself, elevating it, supporting it.

5. ELLA COCKTAIL STICKS

Natalia Criado is able to merge elegance and playfulness in all her pieces. Here we have an example where just with the use of a sphere she achieves a perfect balance. She is also a dear friend :)

6. FREYA SERVING TRAY

Here Natalia treats silver in a functional manner bending a sheet almost as if it was paper. The spheres elevate this tray identity.

7. STERLING SILVER LEA & PERRIN SLEEVE

A simple idea with maximum result—in this case a sleeve for a bottle. Covering brands and cheaper materials with a precious element. It makes everything so much more personal.

8. IL CONICO KETTLE

An iconic piece by Alessi. Aldo Rossi turns an everyday object like a kettle in a sculptural statement. The home as gallery. Timeless.

The Selection Of is an ongoing series featuring people we love and admire along with their favorite PORTA product, giving you a glimpse into their approach to styling their lives and tables. They are people we have known forever and others that we have just met who bring PORTA into vibrant life in a myriad of different ways. A PORTA portrait of a person if you will.