Today we’d like to introduce you to Ju Rocha
Ju, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I grew up in Brazil, surrounded by the world of construction and real estate. My parents were developers and investors, so I spent a lot of time watching them work on renovations and projects. Seeing spaces transform sparked my love for interiors at a young age.
Even though design always felt natural to me, I chose a different path and went to grad school for PR. Years later, I visited LA with plans to stay for just one year. That was back in 1997… and I never left. Somewhere along the way, LA became home — and with it, I found my way back to what truly inspired me.
I explored different paths before realizing that my true purpose was always there — creating spaces that feel meaningful. I believe our surroundings have the power to influence how we live, connect, and how we create memories. My purpose is to design spaces that feel personal, intentional, and deeply connected to the people who live in them— spaces that tell a story, evoke emotion, and truly feel like home.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road — but I think that’s what makes the journey meaningful. Building a design career came with its fair share of challenges. Shifting from PR to interiors wasn’t instant; it took time, courage, and plenty of trial and error. There were moments of doubt, especially when I was figuring out how to blend my creative vision with the practical side of running a business.
Starting my own studio meant wearing many hats — designer, manager, problem-solver — all while staying true to my values and creative process. Balancing client expectations, budgets, and timelines can be tough, especially in an industry where surprises are almost guaranteed.
But every challenge taught me something. Whether it was navigating tough decisions or learning to trust my instincts, those moments pushed me to grow. Looking back, I see that the struggles were all part of shaping who I am as a designer — and they made every success feel that much more rewarding.
We’ve been impressed with R O C H A Design Studio , but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At R O C H A Design Studio, we specialize in luxury residential, commercial, and interior architecture and design. We offer full-service design, guiding each project from initial concept to final installation, with a focus on creating spaces that are not only stunning but functional and meaningful.
What sets us apart is our focus on storytelling. Every project is treated as a unique narrative, where the design is a reflection of our clients’ personalities, values, and way of life. We dive deep into understanding their needs and aspirations, using this insight to craft spaces that resonate with them on a personal level. Whether it’s a serene home or an inspiring commercial space, we blend elegance, comfort, and practicality to create environments that tell a story.
We are most proud of the connections we build with our clients. It’s not just about designing a space — it’s about guiding them through a journey where their vision becomes reality. We ensure that each project is a seamless experience, from ideation to execution, while maintaining a focus on delivering spaces that inspire and reflect the way our clients want to live or work.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Trust the process and stay true to your vision. When you’re just starting out, it’s easy to get caught up in trends or feel pressure to follow what others are doing. But the most meaningful work comes from staying authentic to your own style and values.
Embrace the learning curve — mistakes will happen, and that’s part of growth. Every challenge teaches you something valuable, whether it’s about design, communication, or building relationships.
Most importantly, build connections. The design industry is all about people — clients, collaborators, and trades. Listen, learn, and surround yourself with people who inspire you. Those relationships will shape your journey just as much as your design skills.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.rochadesignstudio.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rocha.designstudio/
Image Credits
Bill Brown Photography
Kate Shkytska
