Meet Genna Jacobs-Freeman

We had the good fortune of connecting with Genna Jacobs-Freeman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Genna, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting Space Design Collective was born from a shared belief between my business partner, Erik Stewart, and me that our environments deeply shape how we feel, function, and flourish. With my background in public health and Erik’s expertise in design, we both felt called to reinvent spaces that truly support well-being—not just through beauty, but through science-backed intention.

We wanted to create a studio that prioritized people, not just aesthetics. One that integrates neuroaesthetics, biophilic design, and sustainable practices to craft spaces that feel as good as they look. For us, it wasn’t about chasing trends—it was about creating balance, joy, and connection through intentional design.

Ultimately, we started this business because we believe everyone deserves a space that nurtures their best life. And we wanted to be the team that helps bring that vision to life.

What should our readers know about your business?
Space Design Collective was born from the belief that our spaces deeply influence our well-being. We’re not just creating beautiful interiors—we’re crafting environments that help people feel balanced, calm, and connected to what matters most. What sets us apart is our integration of science and soul: we use neuroaesthetics and biophilic design to intentionally support the way people feel, think, and live in their spaces.

Before launching this business, my path took me through healthcare, public health, and nonprofit work—including time at CARE International and the CDC. Each chapter gave me a deeper understanding of how environments affect health and quality of life. Those experiences laid the foundation for how I approach design today—with empathy, strategy, and a focus on impact.

Another core part of our story is partnership. Erik and I come from different disciplines—he’s a masterful designer and storyteller with decades of experience, and I bring a background rooted in wellness and systems thinking. We each have our own areas of genius, and one of the most powerful things about our partnership is that we deeply respect and trust each other’s strengths. That mutual support and balance infuse every project we take on.

I’m incredibly proud that our work empowers people to live better—not just through aesthetics, but through intention. Every project is a collaboration. It’s not about trends; it’s about aligning the design with our clients’ unique lifestyles and values.

Getting here wasn’t easy. I’ve worn many hats, juggled motherhood, and navigated the pivots of entrepreneurship. The biggest lesson? Trust the process. Trust your voice. And know that purpose-led work always resonates deeper.

What I want the world to know is that design isn’t just about how a space looks—it’s about how it makes you feel. At Space Design Collective, we create spaces that are more than just functional—they’re restorative, inspiring, and deeply personal.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Day 1 – Welcome to Alpharetta
Start with brunch at South Main Kitchen, explore Avalon, and wind down with live music and a drink at Truck & Tap.

Day 2 – Nature + Vibes
Walk or bike Big Creek Greenway, grab a smoothie at Raw Juice Boutique, and end the night with live jazz at The Velvet Note.

Day 3 – Artsy Atlanta Day
Brunch at Le Bon Nosh, explore The High Museum, shop at Ponce City Market, and dine at Poor Calvin’s.

Day 4 – Wellness + Westside
Morning yoga, lunch at Cooks & Soldiers, browse design shops, and rooftop drinks at Hotel Clermont.

Day 5 – Alpharetta Local Love
Start at YogaSix, lunch at Citizen Soul, and take a pottery class or enjoy the Alpharetta Arts Walk. Dinner at Milton’s.

Day 6 – BeltLine Adventure
Stroll the BeltLine, grab bites at Krog Street Market, and maybe catch a concert or movie in Piedmont Park.

Day 7 – Soulful Send-Off
Brunch at Buttermilk Kitchen and a peaceful walk through the Atlanta Botanical Garden.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’ve had a few iterations of my career—from working in dermatology to pursuing a Master’s in Public Health with a focus in epidemiology. But one of the most pivotal chapters in my journey began when I started working at CARE International. That’s where I met Jimmy Nzau.

Jimmy saw something in me early on and chose to invest his time and mentorship in my growth. I was energized by the mission, the work, and the opportunity to contribute to something meaningful—and Jimmy made sure I was always growing. Even as he launched his own nonprofit, he brought me along and taught me everything from the ground up: how to build programs, lead with purpose, and structure a mission-driven organization.

At the time, I had no idea how those lessons would later become the foundation for building Space Design Collective. His mentorship didn’t just shape how I work—it shaped how I lead, collaborate, and serve others through intentional design.

Website: https://www.space-reinvent.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spacedesigncollective/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/spacedesigncollective/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SpaceDesignCollective/

Image Credits
Image 1- DeFrancis Project- window treatments done by Space Design COlelctive

Image2- Design by Space Design Collective

Image 3- Design by Space Design Collective

Image 4- Design by Space Design Collective

Image 5- Design by Space Design Collective

Image 6- Moodboard designed by Space Design Collective

Image 7 – AI-enhanced visual created to illustrate the conceptual direction for our client. This rendering serves as an artistic interpretation of the design intent.

Image 8- Images of the owners- captured by photographer Hedy Caplan