The Intentional Design Studio isn't just an interior design firm —it's where the science of wellness meets the art of living well.
ABOUT US
We design interiors the way thoughtful architects design structures: with intention, research, and a deep understanding of how spaces shape the people who inhabit them. Founded by Catherine Shuman, our practice bridges building biology, materials science, and timeless design principles to create homes that don't just look beautiful—they actively support your health, rhythm, and well-being. These aren't decorated rooms. They're calibrated environments designed for how you actually live.
"We can't wait to do another project with her!”
“Catherine was the perfect choice! She was extremely organized and ensured we were well taken care of every step of the way. She took the time to really understand what we wanted, how we use every room in our house, and what our health needs were and made our house into a home that worked with us not against us. We can't wait to do another project with her!”
— Lane
ABOUT
THE DESIGNER
I'm Catherine. Professional houseplant hoarder, lead designer, founder, healthy home savant, and undisputed queen of project management.
If there's a position in the interior design or construction world, I've probably held it! Being hands on early in my career helped shape my company and vision and led to the formation of my own design studio in 2018. I've garnered invaluable insights into the materials and methods that make up our living spaces. This knowledge has fueled my advocacy for healthier and safer homes, driving me to be at the forefront of sustainable design innovation and healthy home design.
As a mom of three boys (Henry, Oliver, and Noah), I live this work every single day. The low-VOC paint in your nursery matters. The way light hits your workspace affects your circadian rhythm. The materials touching your skin while you sleep? They're either helping or hurting.
For me, design is less about staging perfection and more about creating spaces where real life gets better. It's about the moment you realize your headaches have stopped. The way your toddler sleeps through the night in their new room. The dinner parties that run long because nobody wants to leave your table.
These are the moments I design for — the ones that prove style and wellness aren't just compatible, they're inseparable.
xo,Catherine
Every furnishing, color, pillow and cushion we choose is our way of whispering, "This is just for you". Each element is thoughtfully chosen, not only to beautify your space but to resonate with your personal story and lifestyle. Designing isn't just our job; it's how we express our passion.
For us, design is a love language.
confessions of an interior designer
FROM the
HIGHLIGHT REEL
The morning coffee that fuels every spec sheet. The moment a material sample arrives and it's even better in person. Late-night project timelines when everyone else is asleep. The first walkthrough when a client sees their finished space. These are the in-between moments that make this work worth doing.
designer fuel!
seasonal inspiration
concept ideas we love
designing for real life
greenery - always!
The IDS Experience
STYLE
We don't have a signature style—we have a signature approach. We design for your aesthetic, then execute it with materials tough enough to handle real life. Surfaces that develop character instead of showing damage. Finishes that improve with age. Textiles built to be used, not protected. The result? Spaces with enough soul to feel collected over decades. We design where the patina matters more than the perfection - because homes should improve with time, not fight it.
APPROACH
Materials science and meticulous project management aren't extras - they're our foundation. Research-backed selections, comprehensive specifications, systems that keep projects on track - we let our nerdy flag fly. You get weekly updates, a dedicated online portal, clear communication at every phase, and the confidence that comes from working with someone who's managed complex builds from the ground up.
CLIENTELE
You're making decisions for the long haul. You'd rather wait for the right material or product than settle for what's in stock. You ask thoughtful questions because you understand that details matter - and you appreciate working with someone who has answers. You value craft, quality, and creating spaces that support how you actually live. You need a designer who can translate your vision into reality while bringing the technical knowledge to make it last.
