Small studio,
big ideas.
About
Hi! I’m Jantine (she/her) — freelance designer, Rotterdam native and founder of design studio Haelsum. After years of working at various creative agencies, I started my own studio to help creative brands and purpose-driven organizations design bold, accessible identities and digital experiences.
I’m based in Rotterdam, the Netherlands (CET timezone), but I’m happy to collaborate with clients worldwide.
Portrait by Milenka Backx.
Background
BA Communication & Multimedia Design (Rotterdam University of Applied Sciences) -> 2004 — 2008
Photography (Minor) (Willem de Kooning Academy) -> 2007
Multimedia Design (Grafisch Lyceum Rotterdam) -> 2001 — 2004
My approach
At Haelsum, I design with purpose, play and a plan. Every project is different, but my way of working always starts with intention and a good conversation. Here’s what you can expect when we work together:
Thoughtful ->
Design isn’t just about what looks good — it’s about what works. I dig deep to understand your goals, audience, and brand story. The result? Visuals that don’t just shine, but connect.
Collaborative ->
You know your brand, I know design. We’ll combine forces and make decisions together — it’s a team effort, not a hand-off.
Organized ->
I believe creativity flourishes with structure. Expect clear timelines, smooth feedback rounds, and no surprises (except the fun ones!).
Playful ->
Yes, we’ll hit deadlines. But we’ll also have fun along the way. Because good vibes make good design.
Making a difference through design.
Impact & Collaborations
I love teaming up with people and projects that make a positive impact — whether that’s designing accessible templates for Laposta, volunteering with De Nieuwe Gevers, or supporting mission-driven teams like the TrueShift Impact Team.
Kind words
"Jantine guides you from idea to final product with room for reflection and dialogue. She quickly understood what I meant and translated it into a logo that really represents what I stand for."
Rebecca van der Schaft
Interim Project Manager & Changemaker
"Jantine quickly grasped the direction we wanted and asked the right questions. She’s enthusiastic, to the point and always delivers on her promises. A very pleasant collaboration from start to finish."
Wendy van Dongen
Communications Advisor at SOL Network
See project ->
"The collaboration was really great—clear agreements, quick responses, and a perfect understanding of what we envisioned. The result is beautiful, practical and complete."
Saskia de Groot
Owner Stichting AAI-Maatje
See project ->
"Jantine translated my core values and vision into such a spot-on identity, it brought my company to life. The end result exceeded all expectations and made me feel incredibly proud."
Lisa Mesander
Child Development Specialist & Founder at Vivendi
See project ->
A selection of my wonderful clients
Let’s get in touch!
Haelsum is a Rotterdam-based design studio offering branding, web design, digital design, and illustration for creative and mission-driven brands. Working with clients in the Netherlands and worldwide.
© 2025 Haelsum — Thoughtful design made with care, coffee, and a little bit of creative magic.
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