We were lucky to catch up with Francesco Scialla recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, so we’re so thrilled to have Francesco with us today – welcome and maybe we can jump right into it with a question about one of your qualities that we most admire. How did you develop your work ethic? Where do you think you get it from?
My work ethic is deeply rooted in my upbringing in Naples, a city with an extraordinary cultural and architectural heritage. Growing up surrounded by the works of great architects and designers who left their mark on the city, such as Luigi Vanvitelli, who designed the Royal Palace of Caserta, and Domenico Fontana, who shaped much of Naples’ Renaissance and Baroque identity, instilled in me a profound respect for craftsmanship and innovation. Their dedication to timeless beauty and functional design inspires me to approach every project with passion, precision, and a commitment to excellence. Naples taught me that creativity flourishes when combined with discipline and hard work, and that ethos drives everything I do as an architect and interior designer.
Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?
I am an Italian architect and interior designer, born and raised in Naples, a city rich in history, art, and culture. My work focuses on creating spaces that seamlessly combine functionality, elegance, and a deep respect for the surrounding environment. Whether designing private residences, commercial spaces, or restoring historical buildings, I aim to bring a unique blend of modern innovation and timeless beauty to every project.
What excites me most about my work is the ability to transform ideas into spaces that inspire and resonate with people on a personal level. Each project tells a story—one that reflects my clients’ personalities and the cultural context of the location. As a Neapolitan, I bring an innate sensitivity to blending tradition and modernity, drawing inspiration from the masterpieces of architects like Luigi Vanvitelli and Ferdinando Sanfelice, whose works shaped my hometown.
As for what’s new, I am currently expanding my practice internationally, offering bespoke design services for clients who want a touch of Italian craftsmanship and artistry in their spaces. I’m also launching a collection of custom-designed furniture and décor pieces that reflect my design philosophy—where clean lines meet rich textures and timeless materials.
For me, design isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating experiences and emotions within a space. I want my work to leave a lasting impression, just as Naples and its cultural legacy have left on me.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey as an architect and interior designer are creativity, adaptability, and a deep understanding of cultural and historical contexts.
1. Creativity: The ability to think outside the box has been vital in shaping unique designs that resonate with clients and stand the test of time. To develop this, I recommend immersing yourself in diverse artistic expressions—visit museums, travel, and observe how design can tell stories. Sketch your ideas often, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
2. Adaptability: Every project comes with its own challenges—budget constraints, site limitations, or client preferences. Being flexible and solution-oriented has helped me turn obstacles into opportunities. For those starting out, I suggest working on projects that push you outside your comfort zone, as this is where true growth happens.
3. Knowledge of culture and history: Growing up in Naples, I was surrounded by a legacy of iconic architecture, from Baroque masterpieces to modern interpretations. Understanding the cultural and historical significance of spaces allows you to design with greater depth and respect. I encourage new designers to study architectural history and engage with the local context of their projects—it’s a wellspring of inspiration.
My advice for those early in their journey is to remain curious and persistent. Build a strong foundation by learning technical skills but also invest in developing your personal design voice. Seek mentorship from experienced professionals, take on small projects to refine your craft, and never underestimate the power of passion and hard work.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
Throughout my journey, several people have been instrumental in helping me overcome challenges and develop the skills I needed to succeed. First and foremost, my family played a crucial role, instilling in me a strong work ethic and a passion for creativity from a young age. My parents encouraged me to explore art, history, and design, which laid the foundation for my career.
Professionally, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who guided me at critical points in my journey. My early professors in architecture school not only taught me technical skills but also challenged me to think critically about design and its impact on society. Later, working under experienced architects gave me invaluable insights into balancing creativity with practicality, as well as the importance of collaboration in delivering successful projects.
Finally, my clients have been incredible teachers. Each project presents unique challenges and opportunities to grow. Listening to their needs, adapting to their visions, and turning their ideas into reality have been some of the most rewarding and educational experiences of my career.
My advice to others is to seek out mentors and collaborators who inspire you. Be open to learning from everyone you encounter, and remember that challenges are often the best opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sciallastudioid.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sciallastudio_/profilecard/?igsh=cXNveXc2and5bGFj
Image Credits
Scialla Studio
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