DesignHER is a platform that celebrates the vision, craftsmanship, and innovation of women in design. By curating stories from leading female designers, artisans, and creatives, our latest series, in collaboration with Women Create, offers an intimate look at the diverse paths these women take to shape their industries and their own businesses. Through thoughtful interviews and features, the platform illuminates the artistry and technical mastery that define their work, while exploring the deeper narratives of creativity, resilience, and leadership. DesignHER honors the unique perspectives of women, fostering a community where design excellence and empowerment intersect to inspire the next generation of trailblazers.
Her passion for Italy — and for reviving ancient techniques — found a new expression in Curiosare, the creative retreat she co-founded with her husband, Riccardo Sibilano, in the storied region of Puglia. Curiosare is a deeply personal extension of Caroline’s artistic vision: an immersive escape where guests experience decorative painting, traditional Italian cooking classes, and private artist studio visits. Inspired by her constant curiosity, love of beauty, and penchant for slipping behind the closed doors of hidden palazzos, the retreat is a celebration of craft, culture and connection. See Caroline’s mesmerizing work in today’s DesignHER.
Caroline’s Fringe Benefits Wallpaper in collaboration with PARETE
Advice to women looking to get into this field…
Caroline Lizarraga: First of all, you may be the most talented person in the world, but if you don’t get out and meet people, your art won’t see the outside world. Unless you have a dealer, I would hone in on a few people you want to work with. Set up meetings and show them your work. Connect with them — show them the possibilities of what you can do.
When I first started, I used to do exactly that. I’d find a designer I wanted to work with, create a collection of samples just for them, cold call them (yes, it takes courage!), and set up a meeting to show them my work. And you know what? It worked every single time. I landed the most incredible projects that way. Designers are busy, and when you show up and demonstrate that you can do anything, you start building relationships that can last a lifetime. I still work with some of those designers today.
I also truly believe in doing things for free in the beginning — it helps get your name out there and creates momentum. Early on, say yes to everything. Now, 20 years later, my mantra is: Saying no means saying yes to the right things.
Women in the future of my industry…
CL: It’s funny — I don’t really focus on gender in my industry. But more and more, women in particular come to me about working together. So I’ve made it a huge priority in my life to support women in my business and in their own personal art.
Balancing family, children, work and your own well-being is really hard. But when you have strong connections with powerful women, somehow it feels easier to manage. I truly believe if we all support each other, we’re stronger as a group. When I get a project, honestly, about ten other women get work too — and that makes me feel incredibly proud to be a woman in this industry.
Industry shifts I’ve noticed…
CL: I’ve seen HUGE shifts in my industry. When I first started, I’d see my work in magazines, but my name was never mentioned — even when the whole page was my work. Now, craft is being acknowledged, and that makes me so happy and proud. Even if it’s just a tiny little piece, it’s included. It feels more inclusive, like we’re all on a team. Craft has become such an important aspect of design, and I feel honored to be part of that movement.
Caroline’s work in designer Anthony George’s Home. Photo by Marta Xochilt Perez
My background…
CL: I actually started in fashion, but every weekend I found myself at flea markets. I started buying furniture and redoing the pieces I found. I had no idea what I was doing — but I had vision, and no fear. Nothing has changed! I bought my first piece for $20, and then a designer saw it and offered me $1,200. That’s when I thought: Maybe I’m onto something.
I moved to Italy to study furniture restoration, then returned to the U.S. and apprenticed under a decorative artist for years until I was ready to start my own business. That was 20 years ago.
“Learn the rules like a pro so you can break them like an artist.” – Picasso
The most rewarding part of my career…
CL: The most rewarding aspect of working in high-end residential craft is receiving emails and phone calls from incredibly talented designers, architects, and creatives from around the world. They tell me they want to work together — and when I ask what they want me to do, they say: “We want you to do what you want to do.”
That’s when I have my pinch-me moment.
Caroline’s work in Studio Becky Carter. Photo by Catherine Nguyen Photography
Lessons I’ve learned…
CL: So many lessons! Follow your heart. Follow your passion. Do what you love, and you’ll never work a day in your life (well… actually, you’ll work 24 hours a day, every day — but you’ll love it!).
I never do anything for money — I do it because I love it. And I never work with mean, negative people.
How I stay inspired…
CL: Well, I’m on the road non-stop — that definitely helps! When you’re traveling every other week, you see so much. I’m currently restoring a home in Italy, so I spend a lot of time researching and reading about Italian art and history. All of my friends are in design, art, fashion, or jewelry, so my world is constantly filled with beauty and color. I also spend a lot of time in nature to reconnect with myself.
A project I’m proud of…
CL: This year, I completed a project that was given to me over three years ago: a 3,000-square-foot glass ceiling that had to be done on both sides. When I first saw what the designer wanted, I knew it had never been done before — and I had no idea how to do it.
Challenge accepted.
It took me two years to figure it out. Now it’s up. And it’s beyond spectacular. Wait until you see it. I love a challenge — I learned so much. It’s good to push yourself. I live for that.
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