Designer Spotlight: The Uniquely Modern Designs of Erika Shulman Interiors

This month, we sat down with Erika Shulman, founder of Erika Shulman Interiors, for an inspiring and informative conversation about how her decades-long career in the fashion industry elevated her to becoming one of the most sought-after interior designers in the New York area.

Get ready for a motivational story about how Erika’s love for color and patterns has become part of her signature style when designing modern spaces that are—in her own words— “cool, comfortable, and unexpected.” Which look is your favorite?

One-On-One with Erika Shulman

How did you get started in the interior design space?

I worked in the fashion industry for two decades. My role was in sales and product development, and a big part of my job was working with textiles. I loved my job for many years, but at a certain point I got bored. After moving to Long Island—but still working in Manhattan—I started helping friends on the side with their interior spaces. Shortly after, I began to get referrals and next thing I knew—I was too busy to do both! I got a taste of how exciting the interior design work was and decided it was time make this my full-time career. I’ve never looked back. Every day in this field is exciting and creative.

How would you describe your home design style?

My style is modern. I like to create a very clean space with a pop of color

I’m modern and fresh, and not afraid of color or mixing patterns. I want to create a space that is cool, comfortable, and unexpected. I try not to repeat myself, and I give every client something new and unique in their home.

Every room in the house must be fun to design, but do you have a favorite?

I really enjoy a kid’s playroom because you can have a lot of fun with wallpaper and color. I usually find that is one of the rooms where the client is more open to boldness.

What would you say is the most highly requested room to design from your customers?

At the moment, so many clients want to convert their living room that is never used into a bar room where they can entertain. I think it’s a great use of space, and I love to create a mood where people hang out all night!

What do you find most challenging about designing a home?

I find the most challenging is people’s expectations of how much it is going to cost to design a home. There are many costs that clients don’t think of when they are working on their budgets that are big expenses—such as wallpaper hanging—as well as shipping and delivery costs.

When designing a room, what is the most important factor?

The most important factor is understanding your client, their style, and expectations. What is the mood and what will be the end use and purpose of the room?

What inspires you?

I am very inspired by color. I usually start with what color I want to add into a room and build around that. I love wallpaper for that reason.

What do you love most about being an interior designer?

I love building relationships with my clients and creating spaces for them that they will enjoy with their families for many years. I love the process—from the research and sourcing to the decision-making—and then seeing all the pieces come together to complete the space.

Looking ahead: What trend are you most looking forward to for 2023?

I am loving the rich and warm tones and looking forward to moving away from black and white (which I have been enjoying for so long) and adding more earthy tones to create a cozy and rich feel.

We hope you enjoyed our conversation with Erika Shulman. Whether it inspired you to convert your living room into a fabulous entertainment space or switch up the colors in your décor, Country Carpet is here to help you design the room of your dreams. We invite you to visit our showroom to explore the many design options that are available. You can schedule an appointment with us. And walk-ins are always welcome. We look forward to seeing you!

Check out more of Erika Shulman Interiors and give them a follow!