Rooted & Refined Design House was founded as a natural extension of the nonprofit, Rooted Interiors, founded by Kristina McCalla, where she has long witnessed the profound impact of a thoughtfully designed home. Through their work of furnishing spaces for families transitioning out of homelessness, they saw how intentional design fosters comfort, dignity, and renewal. Inspired by this transformative power, she and Tracy Youngblood McDaniel expanded the mission to serve homeowners who are deeply connected to their spaces yet seek a refined, elevated aesthetic. Rooted & Refined blends our passion for storytelling with a dedication to timeless, functional design—honoring the past while thoughtfully reimagining the future.
Kristina McCalla
Co-Founder & Design Principal
Kristina McCalla is a rarity in the design industry, seamlessly blending her expertise in both Architecture and Interior Design—a passion she discovered at the remarkable age of three. Her deep appreciation for both disciplines informs every stage of her work, from initial concept to final installation, infusing each project with vision, energy, and innovation. With over a decade of experience in designing and decorating homes, Kristina brings a unique perspective that bridges structure and aesthetics.
Determined to become an architect from a young age, Kristina pursued her studies in Architecture before completing her formal education in Interior Design. Her diverse professional background includes working directly under an architect, as well as successfully owning and operating her own design firm.
In 2023, following a hiatus from her design career, Kristina founded Rooted Interiors, a nonprofit organization dedicated to custom designing and fully furnishing homes for families transitioning out of homelessness. She firmly believes in the power of design to heal, restore, and uplift, providing families with a true home—a foundation for new beginnings.
Kristina is a dedicated advocate for both her community and sustainable design. As a certified Green Accredited Professional, she is an active member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council and Wellness Within Your Walls. Her professional affiliations include the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC), the Interior Design Society (IDS), and her local Chamber of Commerce. In addition to her design work, Kristina serves as a Board Director for the Boys & Girls Club of Jackson County and Family Promise of Athens, furthering her dedication to empowering families and fostering community development.
Originally from Miami, Florida, Kristina now resides in Hoschton, Georgia, with her husband of eight years and their two young children. Outside of the studio, she finds joy in spending time outdoors—especially near water—creating new home projects, and cherishing moments with her family.
Tracy Youngblood- McDaniel
Co-Founder & Design Principal
Tracy is an entrepreneurial and analytical professional with experience in executive leadership and ownership, healthcare consulting, strategic planning, sales and marketing, design, and business development. Proven record of success in fast-paced and high-pressure work environments requiring a high sense of business acumen. Successful in building companies from the ground up, expansion to multimillion-dollar levels and executing exit strategies. In addition to many other endeavors, Tracy is the founder of Wellness Worx which focuses on achieving health and wellness in every chapter of your life. Tracy also founded Southern Grace Enterprises which has transformed over the years from interior design, event planning, boutique, and floral design.
As a dedicated advocate for both her community and design, Tracy serves as a Board Director for Rooted Interiors. She also takes part in many philanthropic efforts and enjoys dedicating time to those in need. She was a part of 2 seasons of Extreme Makeover Home Edition on ABC and enjoyed transforming homes and lives for those families.
Tracy grew up in a military family and has lived in many beautiful places from Alaska, Florida, Hawaii, and Georgia. While life was not always easy she is prideful, resilient and understands tough times can prove to form the strongest and compassionate people.
She currently resides in Georgia full time with her husband Will, an Army Infantry combat veteran, former police / swat officer and he currently serves on the Flowery Branch city council and her 3 children, Madelynn (19), Landon (16), and Mia (10). They have 2 sweet pups - Athena and George. In her free time you can find her on the beach, reading a book on the porch, working out, or entertaining family and friends.
If you have several years of interior design experience that is in line with our aesthetic and think you’d be an excellent fit, please reach out via email at hello@rrdesignhouse.com.