Today we’d like to introduce you to Erin Blane.
Erin, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My interest in interior design goes as far back as I can remember. Growing up, my dad’s career necessitated that we moved often, from Chicago to Phoenix, to Miami, to Atlanta, which exposed me to a unique blend of regional and cultural styles; and in turn, created this great love and appreciation for architecture & decor. As I grew older, my interest grew into passion, and I decided to pursue a degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology (I/O Psych). I knew I had a love for design already, but I wanted a genuine understanding of why and how design affects us the way it does.
After graduating, I joined the industry working for an architecture & interior design firm and eventually for a local real estate development firm. My 10+ years in these environments taught me so much. The painstaking details that go into a functional & successful design, both on the vertical & horizontal level, from the buildings themselves to the big picture of the overall community as a whole. I believe there’s a set path for all of us in life and I have no doubt that these career opportunities were exactly where I was meant to be to allow me to learn and experience all the invaluable things I have.
Along the way, my “for fun” designs for friends & family caught the interest of some business-owners within the community. Eventually, I was introduced to Ramon Gonzalez of Thrive Coworking, who believed in me and my designs, and enlisted my talents for 3 of his commercial properties – the success of which has lead me to where I am today.
Has it been a smooth road?
Honestly, the momentum that came from my first large commercial design project caught me off-guard. I never dreamed people would respond as positively and passionately as they have to my designs. The main challenge lately is just trying to maintain a good work/life balance with my husband and toddler, while also pursuing this professional dream and seeing what these passion projects may grow into. Thankfully my family is so supportive, and also a huge part of my “behind the scenes” design team. They are seriously the best.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Erin Blane Design – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
I think a lot of what gives my designs that “warm feeling” is my love of (and admittedly sometimes a bit obsessive…) attention to the details. I factor in the often-overlooked aspects of design that increase function while also rejuvenating form.
Whether it be color, light, acoustics, traffic flow – I strive to create the best space for my customer’s aesthetic, both functionally and visually/subconsciously. As Charles Eames said “The details are not the details. They make the design”.
Let’s touch on your thoughts about our city – what do you like the most and least?
I love the mix of old and new that is Atlanta & the surrounding cities. Our generation is adding our own layer & colors of personality to the spaces we’re interacting with, but while also preserving & often highlighting the history and stories of those that came before us in this city.
Ponce City Market, The BeltLine, Historic Downtown Roswell, Downtown Crabapple & Alpharetta, they’re all doing such amazing things, all with their residents in mind, all wanting to create the best uses for their community. I’m really proud & excited to be a part of the creative fabric of our city during this time.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.erinblanedesign.com
- Email: erin@erinblanedesign.com
Image Credit:
Priscila of gentleuprising.com and Rachel Palazzo of Thrive Coworking
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
