Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
+9 Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
Maritza Capiro | Sophisticated Design, Heartfelt Spaces, Global Vision
Meet Maritza Capiro
Principal Interior Designer
Luxury Guide Design Curator
With a career spanning continents and cultures, Maritza Capiro brings refined elegance, warmth, and authenticity to every project she undertakes. As the founder and principal designer of Maritza Capiro Designs Corp, her work reflects a deep understanding of how people live, gather, and connect. Born in Cuba and having lived in Europe, Puerto Rico, and now the United States, Maritza’s design perspective is inherently global—layered with influences from art, architecture, and her own multicultural journey.
Maritza’s path to design was as organic as it was intentional. After years of remodeling homes with her husband, she turned her natural creative instinct into a professional pursuit, returning to school to formally study interior design. Today, she is celebrated for crafting interiors that feel refined, timeless, and deeply personal—spaces that balance elegance with livability, form with function, and sophistication with soul.
Her work has been featured in Elle Décor, Florida Design Magazine, HGTV, Gulfshore Life, Modern Luxury Interiors, Coral Gables Magazine, Design NJ, Design & Décor, Dering Hall, Shoutout Miami, Voyage Miami, Media Group Lifestyle, and SoFlo Home Project—a testament to her enduring influence and impeccable taste.
From a love of travel and culture to a passion for designing homes filled with heart, Maritza shares her story, design philosophy, and expert insights in this conversation with Lynette Janac, Publisher of Luxury Guide.
GETTING STARTED IN DESIGN
Where are you from?
I was born in Cuba and have lived in Europe, Puerto Rico, and finally the United States.
Has your cultural background or personal upbringing influenced your design approach—and if so, how?
Yes, absolutely. Growing up in a warm, Latin household taught me the value of hospitality and comfort—creating spaces where people naturally gather. Living in culturally rich places like Europe and South Florida has heightened my sensitivity to texture, color, and detail. My goal is always to design homes that reflect the client’s story and lifestyle, not just follow trends.
How did you get started in design?
I’ve loved design for as long as I can remember. After college, my husband and I began buying and remodeling homes to sell or rent, and people kept complimenting my eye for design. That encouragement eventually led me to study interior design and turn a passion into a profession.
What first sparked your love of design?
Traveling through Europe and visiting museums was incredibly formative for me. Experiencing the way color, form, and history came together in those spaces showed me how powerfully design can shape the way we live and feel.
If you weren’t an interior designer, what would you be doing instead?
If I weren’t a designer, I’d probably still be wishing I was. Design is such a part of who I am—it’s hard to imagine doing anything else. But if I had to choose, I’d probably be in art or architecture—something equally creative and expressive.
DEFINING MOMENTS
Do you have a design mentor or idol?
I admire any designer who creates thoughtful, beautiful work—regardless of style. Talent and intention always stand out to me more than trends.
What’s one project or accomplishment you’re especially proud of?
I’m especially proud of earning the trust of repeat clients. When clients come back for new projects, it’s the ultimate compliment and a true measure of success.
Awards & Recognitions:
Elle Décor, Florida Design Magazine, HGTV, Gulfshore Life, Modern Luxury Interiors, Coral Gables Magazine, Design NJ, Design & Décor, Dering Hall, Shoutout Miami, Voyage Miami, Media Group Lifestyle, and SoFlo Home Project.
SIGNATURE STYLE & PHILOSOPHY
How would you describe your signature style in three words?
Refined. Timeless. Personal.
What’s one design rule you always follow—and one you love to break?
Follow: Form must always meet function—beauty means nothing if a space doesn’t serve the way you live.
Break: That everything has to match. I love contrast, layering, and unexpected combinations that add depth and character.
How do you make a home feel both beautiful and livable?
I design around how my clients truly live. Every choice is grounded in functionality first, then elevated through refined materials and personal touches that reflect their lifestyle.
What color or material are you obsessed with right now?
Rich, natural textures—warm oak, unlacquered brass, and soft layered neutrals. They create timeless warmth and authenticity.
What’s your favorite room to transform, and why?
The living room. It sets the tone for the home—it’s where people gather, unwind, and entertain. It’s the perfect place to layer personality and create flow.
If budget weren’t a factor, what would you splurge on?
Custom millwork or a statement furniture piece—they anchor a space and add lasting craftsmanship and uniqueness.
If your design aesthetic were a car, what would it be?
A classic Mercedes-Benz—timeless, elegant, and meticulously engineered. Luxurious without being flashy.
What’s one lesson you’ve learned from a difficult project?
Over-communicate—especially when multiple trades are involved. Clear, proactive communication avoids misunderstandings and strengthens trust.
ADVICE FOR HOMEOWNERS
What’s one small change that makes the biggest impact?
Lighting. Updating fixtures or adding dimmers completely transforms the mood and functionality of a space.
Where should homeowners splurge—and where can they save?
Splurge: Custom millwork, high-quality upholstery, and lighting.
Save: Accessories and accents—they can easily be updated seasonally or as tastes evolve.
What’s one timeless element you always recommend?
Natural materials—wood, stone, and linen never go out of style and only get better with time.
What’s your go-to trick for making a small room feel larger?
A monochromatic color palette with layered textures keeps things cohesive and airy. Mirrors help reflect light and expand the visual feel.
What’s one thing every homeowner should do before starting a project?
Define your goals and lifestyle priorities before anything else. Clarity upfront leads to a smoother and more fulfilling process.
JUST FOR FUN
Favorite city for design inspiration: Paris
Dream client: Someone who values design, trusts the process, and loves to entertain.
Favorite paint color right now: Warm neutrals like Swiss Coffee by Benjamin Moore and School House White by Farrow & Ball.
Go-to flooring: Wide-plank natural oak.
Material obsession: Wallpaper—it adds depth, personality, and surprise.
Most underrated room: The powder room—it’s the perfect place for bold design choices.
Most overused trend: All-white minimalism. Without texture or warmth, it can feel lifeless.
First thing you notice in a room: Flow and proportion.
Favorite design era: Mid-century and 1970s—clean lines, rich textures, and warmth.
One thing you can’t live without: Texture—it’s what makes a room feel alive.
Go-to design tool: My tape measure—I never leave home without it.
Design-day beverage: Coffee. Always coffee.
Tell us about your featured project—what was the vision, and what makes it special?
Project: Pinecrest Oasis, Pinecrest, Florida
This was a full renovation for a couple who love to entertain and are deeply involved in philanthropic work—regularly hosting events that support educational opportunities for young people. The goal was to create a refined, welcoming environment that could transition effortlessly from intimate gatherings to large-scale functions, all while feeling warm and deeply personal.
What Makes It Special:
- The entire home was thoughtfully reimagined to support entertaining—from a dramatic entry to beautifully layered indoor-outdoor spaces.
- We focused on rich materials, custom millwork, and statement lighting to elevate the atmosphere while maintaining comfort and functionality.
- What truly sets this project apart is the purpose behind it—designing a home that not only reflects the couple’s lifestyle but also supports their mission to give back through meaningful hosting.
Photography by Dan Cutrona
Maritza Capiro Designs Corp
Maritza Capiro, Founder & Principal Designer
[email protected]
305-528-2332
www.maritzacapiro.com
