Design Shrink Studios is a groundbreaking design studio founded by Dr. Klarissa Castro, blending the art of interior design with the science of psychology to create spaces that are not only visually stunning but also psychologically nurturing. This innovative approach transforms how people relate to the environments around them, tapping into the emotional and psychological effects spaces can have on one’s mental well-being. Dr. Castro’s background as a psychotherapist informs her unique design philosophy, setting Design Shrink Studios apart in the competitive design landscape.
The core mission of Design Shrink Studios is to create spaces that heal, empower, and connect individuals with their emotional needs. By focusing on a deep understanding of personal histories, trauma, and transitions, Dr. Castro has created a design process that is as much about psychology as it is about aesthetics. Each design project begins with an in-depth exploration of the client’s personal journey, using psychological assessments and environmental timelines to uncover the unseen ways their environment has shaped their identity.
Many of the individuals who come to Design Shrink Studios are navigating major life transitions—whether recovering from cancer, welcoming a new baby, adjusting to a new town, going through a divorce, or reinventing their identity. Supporting people through transition was a cornerstone of Dr. Castro’s work as a psychotherapist, and that same focus now lives on through the spaces she helps create. As she explains, “After working as a psychotherapist for 10 years, supporting people through major life transitions, being able to now do the same not only psychologically, but through the design of their physical space has been such a rewarding experience. The feeling of seeing that transformation take shape in their surroundings is more powerful than I ever imagined.”
This process ensures that every space is more than just a place to live or work. It becomes a tool for emotional healing and personal transformation. Whether designing a psychotherapy office, a home sanctuary, or a creative studio, Design Shrink Studios focuses on aligning the design with the emotional, functional, and aesthetic needs of the client. This client-centered approach sets Design Shrink Studios apart from traditional interior design firms that prioritize aesthetics and functionality alone.
Design Shrink Studios’ design process is built on empathy, intentionality, and meaning-making. The studio’s work begins with a therapeutic approach, where Dr. Castro and her team carefully listen to the client’s story. From there, the design process takes shape, creating a personalized environment that not only reflects who the client is but also supports who they are becoming. The team integrates a range of psychological tools, including personality assessments and mood boards, to ensure the design aligns with the client’s emotional journey.
What makes Design Shrink Studios truly unique is its holistic approach, combining design expertise with psychological insight. Unlike most interior designers who focus solely on creating aesthetically pleasing spaces, Design Shrink Studios helps clients design their lives through their spaces. By focusing on the emotional and psychological aspects of design, the studio provides an experience that is both transformative and deeply personal.
The concept of “designing from the inside out” is central to the philosophy of Design Shrink Studios. Dr. Castro emphasizes that the relationship between people and their environments is integral to overall well-being. “When space reflects who you truly are, it can become a powerful tool for healing and transformation,” she says. This belief has driven the studio’s success and reputation, making it a trusted name among clients seeking more than just functional or stylish spaces.
Design Shrink Studios’ clients are diverse, ranging from individual homeowners seeking sanctuary to businesses and clinicians looking to create spaces that foster personal growth and healing. The studio has worked on projects across Los Angeles and New York, designing spaces that not only enhance physical comfort but also improve emotional resilience. Through its work, Design Shrink Studios has become a go-to resource for those looking for a deeper connection to their space and their emotional well-being.
Dr. Klarissa Castro’s expertise and innovative approach have garnered attention from top media outlets, including Vanity Fair, British Vogue, and VoyageLA. Her work has also been featured in Manila Up Magazine, and she has spoken at prestigious institutions such as USC and FIDM. Her background in clinical psychology, combined with her design sensibility, has positioned her as a leader in the emerging field of design psychology.
Design Shrink Studios’ process is distinctive and starts with an initial consultation that focuses on understanding what is working and what is not in the client’s current environment. This is followed by an environmental timeline, where clients map out their past spaces, identifying patterns and unmet needs. The next step involves a deep dive into the client’s emotional needs, including trauma history, lifestyle transitions, and sensory sensitivities. This is followed by the creation of a mood board that reflects not just aesthetics but the client’s personality and goals.
The design concept phase integrates all the insights gained during the previous steps, and 3D mockups and 3D animations are created to visualize how the space will come together. Whether the project involves a home, office, or creative studio, the implementation phase ensures that every detail is executed with precision, from sourcing to contractor collaboration. Dr. Castro and her team offer continued support throughout the project, ensuring the final design reflects the client’s personal journey.
Design Shrink Studios’ approach is not just about creating beautiful spaces but about fostering healing, transformation, and connection. The studio’s emphasis on emotional well-being and the personal stories behind each design project has attracted a growing number of clients who recognize the power of intentional, psychology-based design. It’s a philosophy that’s changing how people view their relationship to space, offering a new lens through which to see the environments that shape their lives.
The impact of Design Shrink Studios is profound. Clients report feeling a deep sense of connection to their spaces—whether in their homes or workplaces. These spaces go beyond functionality to become environments that nurture the clients’ growth, healing, and self-expression. In a world where traditional design focuses on aesthetics, Design Shrink Studios is shifting the conversation toward emotional resonance and the healing power of thoughtfully designed spaces.
Dr. Klarissa Castro’s work at Design Shrink Studios is reshaping the future of interior design. Her ability to blend psychological insight with design expertise creates spaces that not only look beautiful but also support personal and emotional well-being. The result is a new kind of design—one that helps clients feel truly at home in their environment.
To learn more about Design Shrink Studios and its unique approach to design psychology, visit www.designshrinkstudios.com. Follow the studio on Instagram @designshrink_studios and connect with Dr. Klarissa Castro on LinkedIn here.