The Porta girls have got something rare these days. It’s a point of view not seen elsewhere. “European” is an easy but insufficient catch-all. It’s about their examination of the individual object for its inherent resonance. There’s always a hook—it might be nostalgia, humor, or utility, but always with an overriding sense of clarity. They know “the hum” can’t be heard by everyone, but that’s the point and what makes “taste.”
A fixture on ELLE Decor's A-List and AD100, Tom Scheerer has been crafting serene interiors from his Manhattan base since 1985. His philosophy is refreshingly straightforward: focus on architectural clarity and comfortable furnishings over flashy materials or trendy designs.
Scheerer's rooms are distinguished by their airiness and thoughtful composition, where his signature green hue often makes an appearance. His approach prioritizes the interplay of forms and shapes over expensive fabrics or precious objects.
"It's all about relationships and shapes and forms," he explains, comparing good design to a well-written sentence—full of carefully balanced contrasts.
This design ethos extends to his business practices and personal life. He maintains a deliberately small practice to ensure direct client involvement and embraces simplicity in his own lifestyle, famously wearing the same lavender gingham shirt daily. "When I get up in the morning, I put on the same thing every day. It's one of my tricks," he notes with characteristic pragmatism.
For his Selection of, Scheerer spotlights pieces that marry simplicity with sophistication—a reflection of his refreshingly understated approach.
Bento Bread Bag
Who better to bring bread to the table than a chic Japanese hobo—or is it Gandhi?
Feldspar Milk Jug
This thing is just the right size and has a lot of personality—it’s abstract but anthropomorphic, and I bet he won’t drip a drop.
Testa di Moro
Echoes of White Lotus but not garish like the more usual colored ones. She’s serene—this one. She’s the prettier and frilly cousin to Piero’s Signora de Montefeltro.
Rita Bowl
This bowl can do the work, clean itself up, and come to the table looking relaxed… like it was “nothing.”
Balea White Candle Holder
Every country guestroom should have this with a stubby taper and a book of matches… Blackouts have become rare, but I miss them.
Birds Eye Maple Serving Board
It’s pretty but would also look handsomely worn after years of use as a cutting board. The ergonomics are great—easy to pick up off a slick counter, and its tapered edge doesn’t get soggy when stood up to dry against a backsplash.
Bicla Napkins
A perfect all-purpose napkin without an overly demanding color story. I’d fold them “slightly damp” for every day or iron them crisp for parties.
Elisa Fruit Bowl
A lovely “elevated” vessel for nature’s offerings… without editorializing. It’s also a practical way to make more room on a crowded table.
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About Selection Of
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.