MEET MORE OF OUR 2024 WOMEN OF DISTINCTION
In 2017, Anna Franklin moved back to her home state of Wisconsin from Chicago after starting her career in fundraising. When she and her family returned, she wanted a change, to work for herself and pursue her passions. She launched Stone House Collective in 2018. The home design firm started small, staging houses for sellers, but Franklin quickly found that she had a knack for the work and began to expand.
“My career has been a journey of growth and learning to make hard decisions.”
Stone House Collective evolved into what it is today – a full-service interior design company. Franklin now leads a team of designers who bring a classic, refined approach to projects across Southeastern Wisconsin. Earlier this spring, she opened a Stone House Collective retail store in Shorewood, specializing in custom furnishings, rugs, lighting and decor.
“A home is your safe space; it’s where you start and end your day,” Franklin says. “It should feel relaxing, comfortable, and truly like you. I always strive to create spaces for my clients that are not only beautiful but also functional and calming. When a home feels right, it can be life-changing for the people living in it.”
Q&A
What kind of challenges did you face while growing your business and transitioning into design?
There were so many challenges, but one of the biggest was learning to stay in my zone of genius. I’m passionate about designing and over the years, I’ve learned to outsource tasks when necessary and understand that it’s okay not to do everything myself. It’s been a journey of growth and learning to make hard decisions.
Why do you think having a home that reflects your personality and lifestyle is important?
A home is your safe space; it’s where you start and end your day. It should feel relaxing, comfortable, and truly like you. I always strive to create spaces for my clients that are not only beautiful but also functional and calming. When a home feels right, it can be life-changing for the people living in it.
