For Jacqueline Goncalves, design is more than aesthetics—it’s about emotion, experience, and self-discovery. As the founder of Moksa Studio, she brings a deeply personal and globally influenced approach to her work, shaping spaces that not only look beautiful but also feel intentional. From luxury hospitality to boutique residential projects, Jacqueline’s journey has been defined by a willingness to adapt, explore, and push creative boundaries.
From Soho House to Her Own Studio
Jacqueline’s career began with high-profile hospitality design, where she worked with Soho House, managing projects that took her from New York to Los Angeles and beyond. It was here that she gained experience designing for a diverse range of clients—including celebrity homes—before transitioning into her role at Charles & Co..
However, after years of working under established firms, she knew it was time to carve her own path. “I didn’t realize how much fun it would be to have my own business,” she says. “My stress level is way down—not because the projects aren’t high pressure, but because I’m in charge, and I don’t have to worry about what someone else thinks.”
That realization led her to launch Moksa Studio, a name inspired by her long-time yoga and meditation practice. “Moksa is a Sanskrit word that refers to liberation from the cycle of life and death—ultimate freedom,” she explains. “It felt like the perfect representation of what I wanted to create.”
A Philosophy Rooted in Feeling and Storytelling
Jacqueline’s approach to design is distinct in its emphasis on psychology, personal connection, and storytelling. “I want my clients to feel connected to their spaces—not just aesthetically, but emotionally,” she says. To achieve this, she incorporates elements of mindfulness and self-exploration into her process, guiding clients through a questionnaire that explores who they are and how they want to feel in their home.
Unlike designers who impose a signature aesthetic across every project, Jacqueline embraces versatility. “I don’t think I have one set style. I enjoy putting on a new hat, changing my approach, and adapting to each project’s unique story,” she explains. “That’s what keeps it interesting.”
Designing Across Continents
Jacqueline’s portfolio spans diverse locations, from New York and Los Angeles to the French Alps. Her ability to adapt to different environments and cultures is a hallmark of her work. “I’ve always wanted to live in Europe,” she shares, “and working on global projects—even remotely—gives me that connection.”
Her experience designing hotels in the Alps during the pandemic pushed her to develop a deep research-based approach. “We couldn’t visit frequently, so we relied on studying the architecture, history, and landscape to create something authentic,” she says. But surprisingly, the goal wasn’t to design something hyper-local. “They actually wanted a more international feel, which played to our strengths as outside designers.”
Bringing Nature and Surf Culture into Design
Beyond traditional inspirations, Jacqueline’s love for surfing and nature plays a subtle but significant role in her aesthetic. “I’ll never design a space that feels synthetic—I gravitate toward natural materials like leather, wood, and stone,” she explains. “I also love maximizing outdoor spaces and bringing nature inside. It’s relaxing, it’s grounding—it’s like what surfing does for me.”
Her passion for the outdoors also influenced her role as an investor and designer in a Sonoma Coast hotel. “Owning a hotel has always been a dream of mine,” she says. “It’s been a massive learning experience, but so rewarding. We’re working on a full rebrand and launch, which I’m really excited about.”
A Commitment to Constant Growth
Whether designing high-end residences, boutique hotels, or collaborating on new creative ventures, Jacqueline Goncalves is continuously evolving. “For me, it’s all about balance—being adaptable, staying curious, and creating spaces that make people feel something.”
With Moksa Studio, she’s proving that design isn’t just about beauty—it’s about transformation.
