Hidden Gems: Meet Justine Johnson of JustDesigns

Today we’d like to introduce you to Justine Johnson.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My name is Justine Johnson and I am the owner and lead interior designer for JustDesigns. JustDesigns is an interior design company currently serving the Greater Cleveland area. I aim to conceive design that is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, maintaining the client’s needs at the heart of my focus. JustDesigns also has a furniture sector in which I flip furniture (mostly tables) and use resin to revamp the piece for a fresh look. The canvases are usually pieces inherited by family or furniture found in consignment shops for the sole purpose of a flip!
Currently, I am working with mostly residential clients, but have aspirations of expanding into more commercial projects, assisting in the infrastructural rehabilitation of schools, community/recreation centers, etc. My mission is to positively influence the lives and culture of the communities I serve through aesthetically functional design. The intersectionality of people and spaces drives me to be a better designer daily.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like anything new, learning and operating a business for the first time, comes with bumps in the road. While they are not always easy to navigate, I attempt to view everything from a gracious centered mindset. As long as I found a lesson in the struggle(s) faced, I can hang my hat on that and come back better than before. One of the biggest lessons I have learned during this process of developing my own brand has been to keep moving forward. The longer I allow a struggle to discourage me, the longer I am prolonging my overall success. Time spent in a stupor, is time that can be spent learning, reconstructing and organizing for the future. It is definitely easier said than done, so I am not here to discredit anyone reading’s potential frustration. Everything is a learning process; the more mistakes, the more opportunity to become better.

As you know, we’re big fans of JustDesigns. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
What sets JustDesigns apart from other interior design companies is my expertise in drafting comprehensive construction document sets, combined with hands-on experience across multiple areas of design. Unlike some designers whose focus is solely on aesthetics, I understand how to translate certain concepts into physical construction, ensuring every design is not only beautiful, but buildable, code-compliant, and thoroughly detailed.
My diverse background allows me to approach projects holistically, considering functionality, materials, spatial planning, and construction requirements from the onset. In the long run, this helps to minimize revisions, streamline communication amongst all parties involved, and execute projects more efficiently. Clients gain confidence knowing they are in the hands of a professional who can guide a project seamlessly from initial brainstorming through construction completion. As a designer, I gain increased hands-on experience through creativity, technical precision, and practical execution.

Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Being teachable and open to learning has been one of the greatest contributors to my professional growth. By staying curious, asking questions, and not being afraid to step outside of my comfort zone, I have been able to build meaningful relationships with mentors who have shared valuable knowledge and guidance throughout my career. Rather than feeling pressured to have all the answers, I view every project and interaction as an opportunity to learn. Putting myself out there, seeking feedback, and remaining receptive to new perspectives has helped me continuously expand my skills, gain confidence, and develop a stronger understanding of both design and business. This mindset has not only accelerated my growth but has also connected me with experienced professionals who have played an important role in shaping my success.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.justdesigns.net
• Instagram: @justdesigns_llc
• Facebook: @JustDesigns, LLC
• LinkedIn: @JustDesigns, LLC
• Twitter: @Justdesigns_llc