Spring/Summer projects are now booking!

Intentional / Liveable
Interior design

EStD. 2018

THOUGHTFUL INTERIORS TAILORED TO YOUR FAMILY'S STORY

We don't just design spaces; we craft backdrops for life's best moments. We believe your home should be more than just a place to live – it should be a reflection of your journey, your passions, and the things that make you smile every day. Through intentional design and a blend of science, storytelling, and soul, we design spaces that reflect your journey and inspires the life you want to live every day. 

Based in Athens, Georgia — serving clients locally, virtually, and across the U.S.


What We Do

RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL

NEW BUILDS

REMODELS

We blend high-end aesthetics with real-life functionality. From selecting the perfect sofa for cuddles and conversation to designing kitchens that encourage culinary adventures, we pay attention to every detail to ensure your home is a true reflection of you. 

Whether you're looking to transform your entire house or just breathe new life into a single room, we're here to turn your Pinterest dreams into pinch-me realities. Let's create a space that not only looks amazing in photos but feels even better to live in!

We work with homeowners, builders, and architects throughout Georgia and beyond through virtual and travel-based design services.

Behind the Designs

Catherine
Shuman

At the core of my design philosophy is a single, guiding mission: to create homes that spark joy, giggles, and the occasional dance party. As the mother of three incredible sons - Henry, Oliver, and Noah - I understand all too well the importance of making mindful choices and healthier decisions for our homes. I don't just design spaces; I create environments where well-being thrives, for every generation. 

READ MORE →

Catherine Shuman

Principal designer, 
ASID Allied Practitioner

Professional houseplant hoarder, lead designer, founder, healthy home savant, and undisputed queen of project management.

"It’s beautiful, functional, and completely us. We’d recommend her a thousand times over!"

"Working with Catherine and The Intentional Design Studio was such a joy. She listened, asked the right questions, and designed a space that actually fits the way our family lives. It’s beautiful, functional, and completely us. We’d recommend her a thousand times over!"

— Olivia and Chris 

word

martha-stewart-logo southern-living-logo elle-decor-logo the-spruce-logo house-outlook-logo redfin-logo house-digest-logo apartment-guide-logo fixr-logo realtor.com-logo livingetc-logo homesandgardens-logo theeverygirl-logo thekitchn-logo

The IDS EXPERIENCE

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all interiors — and you shouldn’t have to choose between a stylish home and one that can handle real life. Whether you're balancing sticky fingers and golden retrievers or finally updating your forever home, we’re here to make the process feel calm, collaborative, and completely customized.

You bring the vision. We bring the intention, expertise, and a wildly organized process.

"We trusted her process completely and it paid off in the most beautiful way.”

“Catherine completely transformed our home. What started as a jumble of ideas turned into a cohesive, functional, and deeply personal space that feels like us everywhere. Her attention to detail is unmatched — every color, texture, and material was chosen with care. We trusted her process completely and it paid off in the most beautiful way.”

— Michael and Erin

More to Explore

A 30-minute framework for understanding what's working, what isn't, and what your home actually needs.

We’re so thankful to every editor, writer, and publication who’s invited us to share our perspective, or who chose to highlight our work. Every feature is a privilege, and we’re honored to be part of the conversation.

Learn how to interject your story into the design of your home. This blog post is a favorite with our readers!

Get Our 30-Minute Home Reset Guide

Most homes are designed once and lived in for years without anyone ever stopping to ask: is this still working? This guide gives you access to the same framework we use to assess every home — examining how each space feels, how it functions, and where it's creating friction in your daily life. By the end, you'll know exactly where your home is working for you, where it isn't, and what to address first.

The BLOG

VIEW ALL →

Design Philosophy

The Science of Design

Design Advice

Healthy Homes

Fall Air Quality Reset: Preparing Your Home for Closed-Window Season