Napa Valley-based designer Erin Martin likes to do things a little differently. The second-generation style guru (mom’s an interior designer, dad’s an architect) infuses every project with her unique blend of art, engineering, aesthetics, and a healthy dose of playfulness (check out her website to get a sense of her stellar sense of humor). Inspired by her years spent working all over the world from Morocco to Hungary, Martin’s work effortlessly combines classic cultural influences with one-of-a-kind personal touches. Her company, Erin Martin Design, creates clean, cool, comfortable spaces tailored to each client. Check out her hilarious answers to our questions below.
1. Who is your biggest role model?
My mother.
2. Which movie or play do you wish you could have designed the set for?
Brazil.
3. What is the best way to gauge a client’s personality before starting a project?
Their clothes and whether they scream. I don’t do screamers.
4. What new design trends are you excited to integrate into your work?
More cowbell.
5. How do you completely unwind?
Travel.
6. If you hadn't become a designer, which career would you have pursued?
A pimped-out convalescent home with Thomas Keller blending fois gras and a live DJ nightly.
7. What’s the worst pre-designer job you’ve ever had and why?
Worked at the Olive Garden for two days. Yuck.
8. What’s your favorite cocktail recipe?
Water/Fire/Tequila
9. Create your perfect playlist for us.
Lightning round!
10. Would you rather shop new or vintage?
Vintage.
11. First celebrity crush?
Elizabeth Taylor/ Michael Jackson.
12. What’s your hidden talent?
I can tie cherry stems with my tongue.
13. Best restaurant in your area?
Redd and Reddwood in Yountville, CA.
14. SF or LA?
SF.