Rajevac Design Studio is a multi-disciplinary interior design firm known for its ability to create balanced spaces that seamlessly blend classic old-world antiquities and modern elements. Whether working on residential or commercial projects, Rajevac Design Studio’s approach ensures that every space they design feels cohesive, elegant and uniquely tailored to the client’s vision. Recently, principal designer Cristi Rajevac and her team completed a redesign project for the Atlanta International School. We caught up with Cristi to find out more.
What was the creative directive from the client, the AIS?
Working with Anna at Atlanta International School was a seamless and very focused process. From the beginning, she was clear about AIS’s desire to distinguish itself: not only from other schools in the area, but by honoring its own history and identity. With such a richly diverse community and a strong emphasis on inclusion and global perspective, the goal was to thoughtfully weave the school’s colors, mission and story throughout the spaces.
We began the project in the spring and carefully planned execution around summer and early fall school breaks. This allowed us to create spaces that felt intentional and layered, blending custom-designed elements—like the entry desks and curved benches crafted locally by Douglas Workroom—with durable, manufactured pieces designed to withstand the daily rhythm and wear of a busy school environment.
What opportunities did you have in designing for a school rather than a home? And, challenges?
Designing for a public space is inherently different from designing a home; instead of serving one family, you’re creating an environment shared by many. With a school, that responsibility deepens as you are designing for students, faculty, parents and visitors, all with different needs and perspectives.
This created a wonderful opportunity to design spaces that feel welcoming, meaningful and inspiring to a broad audience, while still clearly reflecting the school’s mission and values. The primary challenge was timing and coordinating construction and installation around the demanding schedule of a fully functioning school, but thoughtful planning made it possible to deliver without disrupting daily life on campus.
We love the students' framed art. How did that idea evolve?
I was curious to see past student artwork, so I asked to explore the school’s archives. What I found was incredibly inspiring. There was such depth, creativity and history represented in those pieces.
The idea of showcasing student artwork in the main entry felt like the most authentic and meaningful choice. I couldn’t imagine introducing outside art when the most powerful work was already being created within the walls of this vibrant, creative international school.
Your studio is in Buckhead. Tell us about your journey to get here.
I’m originally from Louisiana and grew up in South Florida, and while my husband attended Georgia Tech, I spent more time in Atlanta. I quickly fell in love with the city and its diversity, architecture and creative energy.
Atlanta offers such a dynamic mix of styles and neighborhoods, and Buckhead in particular feels like a place where tradition and innovation coexist beautifully. It’s an inspiring environment to live and work, and it continues to influence the way I design.