Designer Next Door: Getting to Know Erin Sander

Known around the country for her turnkey ability to create interiors structured in detail, Erin Sander’s work is guaranteed to both take your breath away and make you feel at ease. Her award-winning designs are infused with the perfect balance of form and function. She has the skillful selection and creative ability to incorporate refined materials and curated palettes that result in the cohesive blend of a home’s architecture with its design detail. Think natural woods, stone, and metals that lend the authentic warmth and welcoming feel you’d find at many of the world’s most sophisticated, elegant resorts.

Sander’s natural talent and innate ability to approach a project from the beginning phases of architectural design down to the most intricate, finishing details of the installation set her apart in her field — making her a beloved choice for clients across generations. We sat down with Erin to learn more about how she helps clients with their house from the ground up, designing a place they’ll be happy to call home for years to come.

What inspired you to pursue a career in design?

My dad encouraged me to take a career aptitude test before I started my college career — advice that I’m grateful for to this day. My results revealed a resounding and clear strength for interior design, a fit that felt perfect because I’ve always had a passion and love for design and the arts.

How would you describe your design philosophy?

At Erin Sander Design, we believe that every project is rooted in the inspiration we derive from each client, and our design process is based on principles that allow us to gain insight into the personality, needs, and wish lists of each family. Our end goal for every project is to create a feeling of relaxed, refined elegance — regardless of style, architecture, or materials.

What do you advise your clients to keep in mind if they’re navigating the real estate market?

In today’s ever-changing market, having a skilled professional in your corner is invaluable. Find someone you trust and can establish a great working relationship with — first. Once my clients have found the house or lot they love, they’re even more confident at the onset of our design work together.

The neighborhood you call home …?

University Park. We love everything about our community, from the parks and the small-town charm to the way our kids can ride their bikes to school (not to mention, the Christmas light displays are second to none!). We’re grateful to live in a community where neighbors are friends and friends feel like family.

Describe your approach to ground-up construction design.

Our firm is well-positioned to work with clients seeking ground-up construction and full-scale design projects — and we believe that the best results are achieved when work begins in the architectural planning phase. We oversee our projects through to the design process and complete furniture installation.

Our three-pronged approach at Erin Sander Design encompasses a construction design lead, a furniture design lead, and I oversee both leads as principal to ensure the harmony of a cohesive, dynamic result.

Favorite aspect of vacation and second-home properties?

Vacation and second-home properties are incredibly fun to work on. Most often, they’re designed with relaxation, retreat, and time spent with friends and family in mind. We encourage clients to consider fun, aspirational designs for a second home and to do something different from their primary residence. From the design of a ski lodge in Telluride to a family-friendly lakefront property at Cedar Creek in East Texas, we love the opportunity to bring clients’ dreams and ideas to life in such happy places.

Can’t leave home without …?

My iPad, measuring tape, and an amazing cup of coffee — my husband, Mike, is a budding master barista.

Changes in client requests post-pandemic?

The need for a functional home office has skyrocketed — and we really focus on making home offices functional as well as an integrated part of the rest of the home. A beautiful and livable outdoor space is also at the top of everyone’s list. We’re so lucky with (mostly) great weather here in Texas, and people want the ability to enjoy and entertain outside with friends and family.

Describe your space at the 2020 Kips Bay Decorator Show House in Dallas?

We were so thrilled and honored to be a featured designer at the inaugural Kips Bay Show House in Dallas. At the onset, I knew I wanted to make the room more than just a pass-through between Chad Dorsey’s kitchen and the garage. My vision was for the room to exude Southern hospitality while still making a statement — the wall covering by Elitis, whitewashed blue millwork, and hand-painted Cle tile floor created a feeling of fun that invited guests to kick off their boots and stay awhile.