About the Studio
Room Theory Co. is a woman-led design studio, building considered, lived-in homes for clients across the Greater Philadelphia, the Triangle, and beyond.
Two designers. One conviction.
Our Story
Studio
Philadelphia, PA + Raleigh, NC
Presence
Local · Travel · Virtual
Founded on the belief that a well-considered home is the truest form of luxury there is.
Room Theory Co. began with a friendship first.
After meeting in 2019 through mutual connections, we quickly built a genuine bond rooted in trust, creativity, and a shared appreciation for beautiful spaces and intentional living.
In 2022, we both entered the world of residential property management, where we spent years immersed in apartments, floorplans, styling, and the small details that shape how people experience home. Over time, we realized we were drawn to the same kinds of interiors - spaces that felt layered, calming, personal, and genuinely lived in.
Overtime, curiosity turned into practice. We began creating concept projects together, refining our eye for design and discovering that what we loved most wasn’t simply decorating- it was shaping the feeling of a home.
Room Theory Co. grew from that shared instinct: a belief that beautiful homes should feel thoughtful, personal, emotional grounding, and deeply lived in.
"We design rooms that hold you. Light that lingers. Furniture you'd rather sit in than admire."
From our two studio bases — Philadelphia, PA and Raleigh, NC — we work with clients across the Greater Philadelphia and the Triangle in person and serve the rest of the country virtually. For projects further afield, both partners travel together. Wherever the work takes us, the approach is the same: listen first, source carefully.
Founder · Interior Stylist
Shay Giavanni
Styling · Sourcing · Concept Development
Shay Giavanni approaches design with a love for spaces that feel warm, thoughtful, and deeply personal. Through her background in entrepreneurship and residential property management, she developed a strong appreciation for the way a home can shape how people feel in their everyday lives.
Having lived in different cities over the years, Shay quickly realized that one of the fastest ways to feel grounded somewhere new was by creating a space that felt comforting, peaceful, and truly her own. Decorating became more than simply making a home look beautiful — it became a source of inspiration, comfort, and calm after long days.
That experience continues to shape her approach to interiors today. Shay believes the most meaningful spaces are the ones that feel elevated yet lived-in, designed with intention, and reflective of the people who live there. Drawn to layered textures, soft contrast, and timeless details, she creates homes that feel both beautiful and emotionally grounding.
Founder · Interior Stylist
Kelsey
Styling · Sourcing · Concept Development
Over the years, working in property management allowed Kelsey to experience many different homes, styles, and living spaces, but it also helped her discover something deeper — her true passion for interior design. With every place she lived, she found comfort and peace in decorating her space and transforming it into somewhere that truly felt like home.
Creating a beautiful, cozy environment became more than just decorating for Kelsey; it became something that brought her happiness, inspiration, and a sense of comfort after long days. Through those experiences, she realized how important a home can be in a person’s everyday life, and it inspired her to help others create spaces that feel just as personal, comforting, and beautiful for them.
What We Believe
Our values.
02
Warm
We believe beautiful homes should feel inviting, personal and lived in
03
Intentional
We design with purpose - creating spaces that feel grounded, functional, and lasting.
01
Thoughtful
Every detail should serve the space and the people living in it
Kind Words
"Working with Shay and Kelsey felt like collaborating with old friends who happened to have impeccable taste. They listened, they pushed back where it mattered, and they built us a home we genuinely love living in."
— Virtual Design Client
Begin a Project
Let's design a home you'll love.
A short note about your space, your timeline, and what you're hoping to feel when you walk in the door. We read every inquiry personally and reply within two business days.