Rethink Design Rethink Design Studio was founded in 2005 as an interior architectural studio and is equally owned and managed by its two partners Joel and Erika Snayd. The company has successfully operated in the Savannah for the past six years and has been recognized for its custom approach to suit the individual needs of each project and client. Clients range from a gourmet market/convenience store (Parker's Market), cosmetic boutique (See Jane), and restaurant (Local 11 Ten) to full renovations of multiple residences. Rethink Design offers design services in interior architecture, furniture, textile, lighting and graphic design for brand development. However, it is the combination of brand development and interior architecture creating Interior Branded Environments that truly sets Rethink Design Studio apart. Having come from large advertising agencies in NYC, the Snayds provide trademark perspective on branding and design, and understand the importance of showcasing one's personality, whether it is for commercial or residential projects. The company gained notice after the launch of Local 11 Ten restaurant for its cohesive branded environment and unique metropolitan aesthetic. It was the level of detail from concept development to execution of the logo, space plan and custom interiors that created the overall experience that draws patrons in and keeps them coming back consistently.Rethink Design Studio employs a group of designers (SCAD graduates) each bringing their unique aesthetic and skills to the firm that broadens the company's scope of work. Their goal for every project is to capture the client's own style through a process of exposure, education and creativity. WIth a variety of design talents, cutting edge style, and impeccable service, Rethink Design Studio is a firm that respects the past, creates in the present, and looks confidently to the future.
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Joel BackgroundAfter seven years working in advertising in New York City and managing creative initiatives for Fortune 500 companies, Joel Snayd moved south in 2003 to pursue a different creative outlet. Two and a half years later, he emerged from Savannah College of Art and Design armed with two master's degrees and the fine-tuned design skills to incorporate his edgy, unexpected aesthetic into clients' environments. Joel's advertising background and SCAD education have proven a winning combination for his interior design and brand identity firm, Rethink Design Studio, which he co-founded with his wife, Erika. Now in its fifth year of business, the firm has a reputation for producing young, fresh and inspired interior and architectural designs with a strong brand presence. It was for clients such as Local 11 Ten, an upscale restaurant, and See Jane, a modern day apothecary, where the brand strategy was extended not only into the graphic elements such as logo, menus and other collateral, but also into the interior of the space, to include custom furniture and lighting, creating an overall consumer experience. Responsibilities and PhilosophyAs Design Principal and Owner, Joel oversees all phases of the firms interior architectural designs. Joel is a strong believer that creative ideas are only as good as their implementation, which is why he works so closely with his clients and employees throughout every project. At the same time, Joel is admired for his ability to push the visual envelope and find cost effective and creative ways to make his custom designs come to life. Projects and Future GoalsJoel has been fortunate to acquire a diverse roster of clients so quickly. His experience started with the overwhelming success of his first restaurant which led to the design of a real estate office, gourmet market, medical beauty spa, cosmetic specialty store, city center as well as multi-million dollar homes. Joel's passion for design is all encompassing. As he begins to develop the concept, he has already visualized the completed space to include areas for custom design opportunities. Whether it be a light fixture (chandelier, sconce, floor lamp, etc.) or custom furniture (bench, headboard, chair) each piece is designed with a purpose and reflects the personality of the brand or the client. Joel has already started his own custom line of light fixtures and will continue with the roll out of furniture pieces by 2011. PressJoel has been published in numerous magazines such as The South, Savannah Magazine and The Knot, for his interior design projects, as well as featured as the Designer to Watch. Most notably, Joel was recognized with an 8 page spread showcasing his personal residence in Better Homes and Gardens. PersonalJoel grew up outside of Chicago and went to school at TCU in Forth Worth, Texas before heading to NYC. He grew up an athlete and ultra marathon runner. His completion of numerous marathons and 50 mile races is a testament to his strong will and fearlessness to try new things, and the determination to make his ideas work. Joel lives and works in the heart of downtown Savannah with wife, and partner, Erika. They make a point to travel often to remain inspired and aware of new trends, ideas and opportunities, not only for Rethink Design Studio, but also for their clients.

Joel Snayd

Design Principal, Owner

Erika Erika co-founded Rethink Design Studio, in 2005, with husband and Interior Designer, Joel Snayd. As Managing Partner, she is responsible for the financial operations and oversees vendor and client relations. Erika works closely with the design team in the procurement phase of each project and oversees the creation of vendor contracts, purchase orders and payment and delivery schedules. Erika's detail oriented nature provides for streamlined accounting principles and continual checks and balances when handling client budgets. In addition, Erika heads Think Tank, the strategic planning division of the firm. With Erika's years of advertising and branding experience and Joel's interior design degree, Rethink Design Studio was created to combine the couples talents. Their goal was to distinguish themselves among other interior architectural firms to create Interior Branded Environments. Rethink's philosophy is that a successful design must begin with the creation of a strong concept and brand identity whether it is for a commercial or residential application. Erika consults with clients at all different points of brand development from those in their infancy to those brands looking to be rejuvenated. In addition, she has access to a proprietary panel of 65,000 consumers where consumer feedback on brand architecture or communication messages is virtually instantaneous.Erika's business success stems from her understanding of process and the importance of the consumer, and client, at all points. Working at top Advertising Agency DDB Worldwide, for over 10 years, has instilled in Erika the value of collaboration to gain creative excellence. It is at DDB, where Erika spent years providing account and brand management consultation to clients such as PepsiCo, Carnival Cruise Lines, Sharp Electronics, as well as other blue chip companies. Some of these clients relied on Erika not only for consumer insights and strategic planning, but also to manage budgets and lead a team, representing multiple disciplines, to develop groundbreaking advertising campaigns and improved brand recognition. Erika moved from NYC to Savannah in 2003, with her husband Joel, who attended Savannah College of Art and Design's masters program in both Interior Design and Historic Preservation. During her time in Savannah she assisted real estate developers and contractors in the revitalization of the Montgomery Street Corridor and Broughton Street initiative. From the development and construction of townhomes, custom multi-million dollar residences to retail stores and restaurants, Erika was responsible for managing staff, vendors, budgets and procurement. This hands-on experience not only allowed Erika to understand all aspects of running development projects, but also how to connect the design-build process to that of brand development -- helping foster cohesive and powerful brand design. Although Erika misses the vibrancy of New York City, she loves living downtown and playing fetch in the squares with her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Reese. Erika has taken an active role in community initiatives via SCAD and the Advertising Federation and looks to increase participation with the Chamber of Commerce and the Savannah Economic Development Authority/Creative Coast Alliance.

Erika Snayd

Managing Partner, Owner

Sarah Sarah has been a part of the Rethink Design Studio team for four years. As a Project Manager, she is responsible for overseeing all design projects and events from beginning to end. Sarah's greatest strength is her ability to combine the efficient and functional use of space with an understanding of aesthetics. She has a keen eye and is primarily responsible for specifying all furniture, finishes and equipment that stem from the Studio's schematic design concept. She plays a pivotal role in, not only managing clients, but also working alongside both Joel and Erika by bridging the two Partners' disciplines - the art of FF&E selections with the systematic skill of purchasing items specified. Since being at Rethink Design Studio, Sarah has had the opportunity to work with commercial clients such as See Jane (beauty store), Glow (med spa), as well as single handedly oversee the interior design of a new 4,000 square foot multi-million dollar home. Prior to joining Rethink Design Studio, Sarah worked for her father in his building supply company. Recently, her father began development of family land in the heart of Cashiers, North Carolina. The first building was an event facility/ restaurant reminiscent of an old farmhouse and is managed by the ex-chef of renowned restaurant Blackberry Farm. As an extension of Rethink's services, Sarah designed and coordinated the facility's first wedding. Sarah not only designed every detail of the interior, but also created and produced the invitations and website which resulted in a seamlessly beautiful event.Sarah graduated from the Savannah College of Art and Design with a degree in Fibers, for textile design. Interior Design came as a natural progression after realizing there is potential to create and control how fibers and fabrics could be seen within an environment.While at SCAD she co-designed a line of salad plates for Working Class Studio that were featured in numerous design magazines (Rachel Ray Everyday, Modern Bride), and are now widely distributed in stores such as Velocity Art and Design. Sarah was recently married and has a passion for animals. Her two dogs were rescued and she is an avid supporter of the Humane Society.
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Sarah Jennings

Project Manager and Buyer

Reese

Rethink Design
Joel
Erika
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