WHO WE ARE.
Design Theory Co. is a boutique interior design studio creating calm, collected spaces for real life. We design for the way you actually live—your habits, your routines, your budget—not a perfectly staged moment that only works for a photoshoot. From kitchens and baths to small studios, salons, and growing brands, we use texture, warmth, and thoughtful details to make spaces feel grounded, welcoming, and easy to maintain.
We care just as much about how a space feels as how it looks. That means listening first, asking good questions, and honoring your story, culture, and season of life. We blend new and existing pieces, practical layouts, and simple material choices (including custom wallpaper and fabrics) so your space can grow with you over time. Design Theory is here to bring a sense of calm, clarity, and comfort to your home or business—one considered decision at a time.
WHO SHE IS.
“My sistah friend has a good heart and a wonderful eye for designing… as soon as I get that dream home you already know who I’m calling.”
— Seshet Neferhotep, Co-Founder & Owner, Third Eye Books & Accessories and Third Eye Wholistic Wellness
When you work with Tracie Smith-McCarthy, Founder and Principal Designer of Design Theory Co., you’re working with someone who sees both your real life and your future self. You’ll notice quickly that she’s not just decorating; she’s listening—to your routines, your story, your culture, and what you actually need your space to do. She has a background that spans graphic design, branding, and interiors, so she’s always thinking about how your home or business feels, functions, and shows up for you.
You come to Tracie when you want a space that feels relaxed, warm, and personal without being fussy. She blends art with intention—layering color, texture, and meaningful details—so your rooms feel lived-in, not staged; grounded, not generic. Whether she’s designing a bookstore, wellness space, or your next kitchen, her goal is simple: create a place where you feel fully at home in your own story.
HOW WE FLOW
From first conversation to final photos, our process is simple: listen, edit, and refine. We start by learning how you live and what you need, then shape a clear design plan—layouts, materials, and key pieces—that feels doable for you, step by step, within a budget that makes sense.
LEARNING YOU
1
At Design Theory Co., every project begins with a consultation where we get to know how you live, what you love, and what you need your space to do.
CONCEPT & DEVELOPMENT
2
From what you share, we translate your ideas into a clear design direction—refining mood, layout, and materials so you can see exactly where your space is headed before anything changes.
DESIGN REFINEMENT & SOURCING
3
We turn the vision into a detailed, shoppable plan—curating furnishings, fixtures, and finishes that fit your style, budget, and space so you can move forward with confidence.
WE GET TO WORK
4
We guide you through bringing the plan to life—troubleshooting, refining details, and helping you make confident decisions as your space comes together.
A SPACE THAT GROWS WITH YOU
5
Finally, you get a space that feels like you—easy to live in, welcoming to others, and aligned with your real life. It’s designed with enough flexibility to grow and shift as your routines, tastes, and seasons change. The goal isn’t a moment; it’s a home or studio that keeps meeting you where you are.
