McLain by Design Interiors: ASID, IDS, NAHB, DBA

"Erica was fantastic to work with! She truly puts her heart into her work and doesn't spare any effort to ensure everything is perfect, even the smallest details. I love working with her, and if you're considering redesigning your house or doing it for the first time, she's an excellent designer. I especially love how she built a plant wall panel with real plants—it adds a refreshing touch to the room and brings it to life.

After having the privilege of witnessing Erica’s talents applied in different contexts, from software product management to design, it doesn’t surprise me at all that she’s chosen to pivot to interior design. Any time I’ve witnessed or observed other people react to a space that she’s created, I and others are transported to a place we could never have imagined on our own. Every space she designs is filled with the beauty of richness of color, variety of textures, and smartly informed by the dimensions of the space. A lot of people don’t understand what software product management is, but it’s really about listening very closely to others, hearing the hidden desire behind what they’re directly saying, and being able to translate that into intuitive solutions that are beautiful in their efficiency. There’s also an idea in design that if something is inherently beautiful, it will attract people and be used more. Erica gracefully explores both these concepts and I’m so excited to see the spaces she’ll co-create with her clients.

Having known Erica for over two decades and having the pleasure of traveling the globe together, I've been consistently impressed by her exceptional talent, dedication, and curiosity. Our collaboration on designing a youth sports facility in Rwanda and transforming my homes in North Carolina has showcased Erica's unparalleled ability to blend functionality with elegance. Her process is transparent, engaging, and deeply informed by her extensive research and genuine empathy for those who inhabit the spaces she designs. Erica isn't just an interior designer; she's a storyteller who uses her vast global experiences to craft personalized, high-end living spaces that are as unique as they are beautiful. Working with her isn't just about witnessing creativity in action; it's about being part of an inspiring journey. Beyond her remarkable professional skills, Erica's personal story of ambition, from her athletic pursuits to her adventures around the world, adds an extraordinary depth to her work. From my perspective, as someone deeply immersed in design thinking and social entrepreneurship, I see Erica's work as a masterclass in empathy-driven design. Her ability to understand and translate the essence of a person's lifestyle into their living space is nothing short of magical. For anyone seeking to transform their home into a reflection of their life and values, I wholeheartedly recommend Erica. Her work doesn't just create spaces; it cultivates environments where you feel like the best, most-fulfilled version of yourself.

A few observations from my time staying at Erica’s “Suburban Cottage” in Texas. I am an entrepreneur, and while I like time socializing with friends (and the Cottage was full of socializing space) what I cannot sacrifice, even when I’m visiting friends or family, are a few hours a day where I can be alone - without feeling like I’m ‘shut in’ to a remote corner. At the Cottage, I had several zones to choose from in having alone time - an outdoor living room that opened into a garden with walking space and an upstairs office opening up into a relaxing library, perfect for anything from office work to quiet meditation were among my go-tos. At the Cottage, I could truly enjoy my time with others - knowing I also had space, when needed, to be alone with myself.

Beautiful suggestions, especially regarding the artwork and wonderful taste - very helpful for someone who can be a bit lost and overwhelmed with the process!