Today we’d like to introduce you to Erica Murphy.
Hi Erica, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
ELM Interiors was born from my passion to help people and my passion for creating spaces that feel elevated, are the reasons why I created ELM Interiors, with the intention that beautiful design should feel accessible, inspiring, and attainable no matter where you are. What started as my creative outlet and vision for virtual interior styling has evolved into a growing design brand focused on modern e-design experiences, curated concepts, and 3D visuals that help my clients see the potential of their spaces. Today, ELM blends luxury-inspired aesthetics with approachable design solutions, offering my clients thoughtfully curated mood boards, layouts, sourcing, and personalized styling through a fully virtual experience.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It definitely has not been a completely smooth road, but honestly, that’s part of what shaped ELM into what it is today. One of the biggest challenges was building a brand and business while still balancing a full-time corporate career. There were seasons where I had the vision and creativity, but limited time, resources, or support to execute everything at the level I imagined.
Another challenge was navigating the growing pains of a virtual-first design business. As the industry evolved, I had to learn how to adapt, refine my processes, invest in better tools, and figure out how to create a luxury, personalized experience for clients completely online. There were also moments of self-doubt — wondering if people would truly see the value in e-design and trust the vision I had for ELM.
Creatively, I’ve also had to pivot and problem-solve along the way, especially with things like sourcing, 3D rendering support, scaling content creation, and balancing artistry with the business side of entrepreneurship. But every challenge pushed me to become more resourceful, more confident, and more intentional about the experience I want ELM Interiors to provide. Looking back, the struggles were necessary because they helped shape both the brand and me as a creative entrepreneur.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
ELM Interiors is a modern, virtual-first interior styling brand focused on creating elevated, intentional spaces that feel both luxurious and livable. We specialize in e-design services that allow clients to experience high-end, personalized interior design in a flexible and approachable way, no matter where they are located. Our process combines creativity, functionality, and visualization through curated mood boards, 2D concepts, space planning, sourcing, and 3D renderings that help clients fully envision their transformed space.
What sets ELM apart is the balance between creativity and accessibility. We blend a refined, editorial-inspired aesthetic with realistic design solutions tailored to each client’s lifestyle, personality, and budget. We are known for creating spaces that feel layered, warm, sophisticated, and deeply personal rather than overly staged or trend-driven. The virtual design experience is intentionally collaborative, allowing clients to feel connected and involved throughout the entire process while still receiving a polished, luxury-inspired result.
One thing I’m especially proud of brand-wise is how ELM has grown organically through passion, consistency, and vision. Every design, concept, and piece of content reflects the heart behind the brand — creating spaces that inspire confidence, comfort, and beauty in everyday living. I’m also proud of how ELM embraces innovation through digital design tools and 3D visualization, helping clients feel more confident and excited about the design process.
Ultimately, I want readers to know that ELM Interiors is more than decorating a room — it’s about helping people create environments that reflect who they are and how they want to feel in their everyday lives. Whether it’s a full room transformation, a virtual styling package, or curated design inspiration, the goal is always to make beautiful, intentional design feel inspiring, attainable, and personal.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
One of the biggest blessings in my journey with ELM Interiors was starting under the guidance of a mentor who introduced me to the foundations of traditional interior design and really showed me the ropes of the industry. Having someone willing to share knowledge, experiences, and honest feedback gave me confidence early on and helped me better understand both the creative and business side of design.
I would absolutely encourage anyone looking for mentorship or networking opportunities to stay open, stay teachable, and genuinely build relationships rather than only looking for immediate opportunities. Some of the best connections happen naturally through consistency, curiosity, and simply showing up in spaces where like-minded creatives are.
One thing that has worked really well for me has been becoming part of community-based industry groups. I’m a member of the Black Interior Designers Network here in Dallas, where we have quarterly meetups to connect, learn from one another, share experiences, and support each other’s growth within the industry. Being in those spaces has been incredibly valuable because it reminds you that you don’t have to navigate entrepreneurship or creativity alone.
I also think networking becomes much more meaningful when you focus less on “selling yourself” and more on building authentic connections. Be willing to ask questions, support others, stay engaged, and continue learning. You never know which conversation, relationship, or piece of advice will help shape the next phase of your journey.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.elm-interiors.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elminteriors_/
