About

Photo: Briana Battaglia

With 21 years as a middle and high school teacher (including the last few years as an executive functioning and wellness coach), Serene and Strategic Spaces is an opportunity for me to use my personal strengths and experiences to improve others’ lives. 

This is where my attention to detail, resourcefulness, appreciation for aesthetics, and passion for wellness all come together. 

My approach is non-judgmental but proactive. I aim for efficiency. 

I’m energized by tackling the issues you’re having in your space and finding solutions. 

What Experiences Led Me Here?

I’ve always been known for having a classroom and living space that was organized and have helped friends and coworkers with organizing. In fact, my middle school students once presented me with an award for it! But certain experiences had a particular impact.

In 2012, when our middle school suffered a fire that gutted the building on the 2nd day of school, I was fortunate to be part of a supportive school community that moved us to another building and then moved us back when the renovated building was complete a year later. 

The move-in was conducted over just 2 days, so that we could get back to instruction and welcome our students back, and I was blessed with a stunning new classroom.

One of my biggest endeavors was rebuilding my classroom library. This included ordering new books, sorting through donations, organizing them by genre, and (most time-consuming) labeling an 18-shelf library by reading level. The reading nook of that classroom library became the heart and soul of our space.

When my parents’ health declined in 2023, it was necessary for me to lead the charge in moving them from their large home in a short amount of time. The ability to discern what to pack and then to create a safe, comforting environment in their new space helped them adapt to a big change. 

This led me to edit my own space with more serenity in mind. By switching to a more neutral color scheme, streamlining my items, and adding soothing decor, my space became a source of comfort when other things were out of my control.

How Can I Support You in Your Space?

We can also set up your space with healthy habits in mind. We’ll follow the golden rule of habit formation: make it obvious, make it attractive, make it easy, make it satisfying.

Maybe you're just ready to edit your home or declutter a space. You can follow a system, but you want it done for you!

If you don’t know where to start, or don’t have the time in your busy schedule, professional organizing will be a valuable experience for you.

With compassion and warmth, my mission is to help you improve your lifestyle in practical yet transformative ways.

Let’s get sorted!

Jess Koczwara, Founder

Kind Words from Clients

  • “Jessica is so patient and listens attentively. She understands where help is needed and can hone in on developing where it is needed the most.”

    -Tricia H.

  • "Jess made the process easy right from the start. Jess is patient and supportive. You cannot go wrong having Jess help you and your space."

    Merry M.

  • “Jessica is a compassionate listener and inspirational coach.”

    - Jillian P.

Credentials

Meet the Team

  • Lead Organizer and Photographer

    Briana and I had a serendipitous meeting where I knew I trusted her to be on my team. She is an expert at maximizing space, has a keen eye for staging items, and is kind but direct when helping clients declutter. With 10 years of experience as a photographer, she also takes photos of the transformations she participates in creating. Briana is originally from Brooklyn but now takes in all that Montclair has to offer.