DON'T MISS A THING

Every homeowner deserves a space that is crafted to their personal lifestyle. Erica James, the founder of Erica James Design, understands this and thus thrives on crafting the ideal home for each client she serves.

A Vancouver native, Erica developed a passion for design at an early age. After studying interior design at school, she utilized her unique gifts by launching her own company in 2018. Since then, she and her team have been interweaving innovation and timeless style into their designs. Erica focuses on collaborating with homeowners, creating spaces that are creative yet reflect their true essence.

Trends may come and go, but at Erica James Design, their priority is to design homes where memories are made. Read on to witness the inspiring words from Erica James herself in this edition of Love Happens’ Design Questionnaire! 

Lh Design Questionnaire with Erica James of Erica James Design

What is your idea of perfect happiness?

My idea of perfect happiness is a balance of meaningful connections, creative fulfillment, and peace of mind. It’s the feeling of being deeply present in the moment, doing something that brings joy—whether that’s having a meaningful conversation, creating something beautiful, or simply enjoying a calm, peaceful environment.  

What do you consider your greatest achievement?

My greatest achievement is growing my design business, Erica James Design, while being a mom to two young kids. Balancing the demands of motherhood with running a business has been challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. It’s taught me resilience, time management, and how to prioritize what truly matters.   

What profession does your alter ego have?

My alter ego would definitely be either a high-energy spin class instructor or the owner of a beautifully curated home store. I love the idea of being a spin instructor, channeling that energy and motivation to inspire others to push themselves and feel amazing. On the flip side, owning a home store filled with carefully selected, unique pieces would let me share my passion for design and help people create spaces that feel personal and special. 

The design you will never forget.

A design I will never forget was a high-end kitchen where we had to work around a challenging structural beam. Initially, the plan was to remove it, but that wasn’t an option. Instead, we embraced the obstacle and incorporated it into the design by wrapping the kitchen island around it and cladding the beam in beautiful marble. What started as a limitation ended up being a stunning focal point. Now, it looks like the beam was always meant to be part of the design, adding a unique touch that elevated the entire space. 

Your favorite business tool or resource.

My favorite business tools are AutoCAD and SketchUp. AutoCAD is essential for creating precise floor plans, while SketchUp allows me to bring those designs to life in 3D and render them, giving clients a clear visual representation of their spaces. Together, they streamline the design process and ensure every detail is spot-on.  

The most timeless design.

The most timeless design, in my opinion, is inspired by English or French aesthetics. It features elegant elements like marble countertops, exposed fixtures, shaker cabinets, and unlacquered brass accents. This style balances classic sophistication with a warm, inviting feel, making it truly enduring and versatile for any space.  

The biggest design faux pas.

The biggest design faux pas is when people focus solely on function and overlook aesthetics in a space. While functionality is important, neglecting the visual appeal can result in an environment that feels cold or uninviting. A well-designed space should harmoniously blend both elements, creating a functional yet beautiful atmosphere that enhances the overall experience. 

Your design motto.

Home is more than a structure. It’s a safe haven, a mirror that reflects our unique selves, and the backdrop to life’s best moments. We design homes to be lived in and loved, to offer sanctuary—all through an intimate collaboration between our team and clients.

Our publisher KOKET makes statement décor. If you were to design a room around one of their pieces, which would it be, and why?

The Pietra Round Nero Marquina Dining Table would make a stunning focal point in a dining nook. I love the boldness of the silhouette paired with the beautiful Nero Marquina marble.

Love happens when…

Love happens when, like in design, the smallest details—often unnoticed by others—make all the difference in creating something meaningful.

Explore more work by the wonderful Erica James at www.ericajamesdesign.com 

Interior Photos by Tina Kullic at Ema Peter Photography | Courtesy of Erica James Design

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