Today we’d like to introduce you to Genna Jacobs-Freeman.
Genna, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My path into design wasn’t a straight line — and in many ways, that’s what shaped Space Design Collective into what it is today. I come from a background in public health, where I managed large-scale programs and complex systems centered around human behavior and well-being. That experience gave me a deep understanding of how environments influence how we feel, function, and move through our daily lives.
Design had always been present in my life, even before it was my profession. I was constantly reimagining spaces, instinctively drawn to light, balance, and the emotional experience of a room. But it wasn’t until I partnered with Erik Stewart — a longtime friend and creative counterpart — that everything truly came together.
Our partnership was the turning point. Erik brings decades of hands-on industry experience, craftsmanship, and technical expertise, while I bring systems thinking, wellness-driven design, and big-picture vision. Together, we found a rhythm that felt both grounded and expansive. Space Design Collective was born from that synergy — a studio rooted in trust, shared values, and a belief that beautiful spaces should also support real life.
Today, we design environments that balance function and feeling, science and intuition. Whether we’re working on a home, a renovation, or a retreat experience, our goal is always the same: to create spaces that feel intentional, calming, and deeply personal — spaces that truly support the people who live in them.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Not at all — and I don’t think meaningful businesses are ever built on a smooth road. One of the biggest challenges was learning how to honor creativity and structure at the same time. Design is intuitive and emotional, but running a studio requires systems, boundaries, and clarity — especially around scope, timelines, and expectations.
Another learning curve was understanding that not every opportunity is the right opportunity. Early on, it’s tempting to say yes to everything, but we quickly learned the importance of alignment — with clients, collaborators, and even projects. Protecting our time, energy, and values became essential to doing our best work.
Building a partnership was also a growth process. Erik and I came into business as longtime friends, which is incredibly special — but it required clear communication, defined roles, and a lot of trust to ensure the business could grow sustainably while preserving the relationship.
And of course, there’s the constant balance of growth and presence — expanding the studio while staying deeply connected to the work itself. Each challenge has shaped how we operate today: with more intention, better systems, and a stronger sense of purpose.
The struggles weren’t setbacks — they were teachers. They clarified who we are, how we work, and what we stand for as a studio.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Space Design Collective?
Space Design Collective is a wellness-focused interior design and renovation studio rooted in the belief that how we live shapes how we feel. At our core, we design spaces that support well-being — emotionally, physically, and energetically — while still being highly functional and beautiful.
We specialize in full-service residential design, renovation design and management, and retreat-focused environments. Our work blends neuroaesthetic principles, biophilic design, and thoughtful spatial planning to create spaces that feel calm, intentional, and deeply personal. Whether it’s a family home, a second residence, or a retreat setting, we design with real life in mind — how people move through a space, how they gather, rest, and reset.
What sets us apart is the balance we strike between intuition and structure. We’re known for pairing soulful, collected design with strong systems, clear communication, and a highly collaborative process. Clients often tell us they feel both supported and inspired — that the experience feels grounding rather than overwhelming. We don’t just hand over a design; we guide clients through a thoughtful journey from vision to execution.
Brand-wise, what I’m most proud of is the integrity of what we’ve built. Space Design Collective isn’t trend-driven — it’s values-driven. Every project reflects our commitment to balance, clarity, and well-being. We’re selective about the work we take on because alignment matters to us, and that intention shows up in the final result.
What I want readers to know is that we’re not here to create “pretty rooms.” We’re here to design environments that help people live better — spaces that feel like a deep exhale at the end of the day. Thoughtful, functional, and quietly transformative. That’s what Space Design Collective stands for.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
When I transitioned into interior design, what I was really searching for wasn’t just a mentor — it was community. I was new to the industry and quickly realized that if you don’t already know where to look, it can feel incredibly isolating. There were moments where I could feel a real gap — and I knew I wasn’t the only one experiencing that.
What worked for me was reframing the question from “How do I find my people?” to “What’s missing, and how can I help create it?” That mindset shift changed everything.
That’s what ultimately led me to step into leadership and help launch the Interior Design Society chapter in Atlanta, where I currently serve as President. I saw a need for connection, support, education, and visibility — especially for designers who are building businesses, navigating transitions, or simply craving real relationships within the industry.
My advice is this: if you’re looking for mentorship or community and can’t find it, pay attention. That absence often means there’s an opportunity to build something meaningful — not just for yourself, but for others who feel the same way. True networking isn’t about collecting contacts; it’s about creating spaces where people feel seen, supported, and inspired to grow together.
That’s where the most impactful relationships — and the strongest mentorship — naturally emerge.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.space-reinvent.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SpaceDesignCollective
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpaceDesignCollective
Image Credits
Photo credits Tommy Swofford- https://imagealleviation.com
