Sylvia Pichler's affinity for metallic and construction materials has been a family affair from the beginning. It was her grandfather and father - a blacksmith and an architect - who instilled into her a profound love for haptic experiences. She ultimately became an architect herself, transforming her vision of materials and design into uniquely shaped, minimalist handbags with ZILLA in 2005.

She starts out by repurposing materials, thus giving them a new life in an altered shape. This approach is a fundamental part of her creative process and the key to her brand’s ongoing success. 

A mother of two, Sylvia lives and works in Bolzano, Italy.