designer spotlight #3 :: meet erika of urban grace interiors

I am so glad that Erika in the midst of a way to busy to do a q&a schedule gave us her time today. She is OVERflowing with lots of creative inspiration. Her blog is great, but she is even MORE amazing when you get to know her in person! Thanks e!

Why start out with this questions again…because this is how most of us start our day. So here we go…

Where did you drink your morning coffee? During the colder months I drink it in the den. (that’s the room with the green striped sofa)  In the warmer months I drink it in my garden!

Is that your favorite room in the house? Yes, it is.  It is a random (catch-all) room, but definitely my favorite!

How do your balance being a mommy, and your growing design empire? “Empire”!? Very funny Julie!  [ha!! really...it is! erika is an AWESOME person inside and out; and her design skill is out of this world..seriously check out her blog. she was even published in SL] I don’t know that I handle it well… when I’m at home I feel like I need to be at work, and when I’m at work I feel like I need to be at home.  We are slowly getting into a routine and I am learning how to balance it all.  I have Paula and Allison in the office everyday and without them (and Joan!) I wouldn’t be alive.  They are truly a blessing and I try to tell them everyday how much I appreciate them… I hope they know they are very loved!

What part of your job is the most enjoyable? Bringing to fruition what my clients can’t visualize.  Receiving emails and phone calls that they are thrilled with their design.

When did your design obsession begin? Very early.  I was the daughter who rearranged her bedroom and repainted every year.  I had a homemade Barbie dream house made out of an old refrigerator box and I wallpapered the walls with decorative paper (this was pre-scrapbook paper… I can’t imagine the possibilities today)!  I was often drug (against my will) to antique shows and flea markets.  It took a few years, but I eventually came around and enjoyed the same things I had earlier loathed.

What’s influencing your design these days? I think reading blogs keeps me on my toes.  There are some very creative souls out there who blog and share their knowledge and wisdom daily.. for free!  No travel required.  No library books needed.  Just an internet connection.

What are your favorite trends in the “design world”? I try to avoid trends… we all fall victim on occasion though, as they are almost unavoidable.  As long as you don’t make expensive trendy purchases you are okay, and likely won’t regret it later.  I can’t answer your question about my favorite trend because I am afraid in 2 years I’ll look back and cringe.  And I don’t want to do that!

What should be the clients first BIG investment in a room? You know that “statement maker” Good upholstery and art!  I appreciate quality and believe you get what you pay for when it comes to home furnishings and art.  There are great resources for custom art at reasonable prices these days – etsy and artists who offer giclee prints make good art available for any budget!

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What’s the biggest mistake you often see people make when decorating their home? I think the biggest mistake people make is buying “accessories”.  A well designed home will have things that have been collected over time, things the homeowner bought in traveling or that have sentimental value.  Or are interesting and conversation starters.  I would avoid buying new mass-produced “accessories” for the sake of having something on your table.  A stack of books is far more interesting than a trendy set of foo dogs.  [Antique foo dogs are one thing, but the ones from Zgallerie are another.]

Fresh, bright, and beautiful OR warm, cozy, and rustic? Depends on the client.  For me… warm, cozy, and occasionally rustic!

Go to paint color? White Dove (Benjamin Moore OC-17) and Grant Beige (Benjamin Moore HC-83)

What is the best gift you’ve ever received from anyone? My ‘77 Ford Bronco that my husband gave to me, along with an engagement ring on the key ring.

What is a must-have recipe for every home? Sour Cream Pork Chops

Favorite splurge?? Fresh Cosmetics

Best place to getaway? Apalachicola

What thing in your home do you use the most? Honestly, my Washer and Dryer.  Second most frequently used item – heated mattress pad.

If you could be any ONE piece of furniture; what would you be and why? The velvet tufted ice blue sofa that my grandmother has had for many years… it would be great to see and hear the past of my family.

Leave us with one word: compassion

*all images courtesy of erika