We recently had the chance to connect with Francesca Bonaduce De Nigris and have shared our conversation below.
Francesca, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity is definitely the most important thing to me especially as a business owner!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Francesca Bonaduce De Nigris, founder of Intrecci by Francesca and manager of Eskici Rugs. With a background in architecture and a lifelong passion for design and craftsmanship, I created Intrecci to help homeowners and interior designers find the perfect rug—without the overwhelm. Rugs are more than decorative pieces; they anchor a space and tell a story of artistry, culture, and connection.
At Intrecci, we curate and source one-of-a-kind handmade rugs from around the world, working closely with a trusted network of artisans and suppliers. Every rug we recommend is chosen for its quality, beauty, and harmony with the client’s overall vision. I believe in a highly personalized, design-driven approach—bridging creativity with practicality, and ensuring that each selection feels intentional and inspiring.
Right now, I’m focused on expanding our rug sourcing and consultation services, creating educational content for designers, and building stronger collaborations within the design community in Houston and Los Angeles.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
I grew up in a family of entrepreneurs, so work was always part of life—not just as a duty, but as something meaningful and fulfilling. From an early age, I learned the importance of commitment, integrity, and doing things well, not just quickly. My family taught me that work should be approached with both discipline and joy—that satisfaction comes not only from results, but from the process itself. That mindset has shaped how I approach my business today: with care, curiosity, and a deep respect for craftsmanship and the people behind it.
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
Like many people, I’ve faced the fear of failure and the fear of judgment. For a long time, both held me back from taking certain risks or fully embracing new opportunities. Over the years, I’ve learned that failure is not the opposite of success—it’s a necessary step in growth. Every setback brings valuable lessons and clarity.
As for judgment, I’ve realized that the only real antidote is self-approval and trust in your own path. When you know who you are and what you stand for, other people’s opinions lose their weight. Building that inner confidence has been one of the most transformative parts of my personal and professional journey.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, absolutely. Authenticity is very important to me. I try to show up the same way in my personal and professional life—with honesty, curiosity, and respect for others. What you see publicly is a true reflection of who I am: someone passionate about design, craftsmanship, and meaningful connections. I believe that authenticity builds trust, and trust is the foundation of everything I do, both in life and in business.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m fully present—when I take a moment to slow down, breathe, and simply be. Music helps me do that; it has always been an anchor in my life. Listening to my favorite songs allows me to disconnect from the noise of the day and reconnect with myself. It’s often in those quiet, grounded moments that I feel the most clarity and calm.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.intreccirugs.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/intreccibyfrancesca
Image Credits
All the images are mine
