A Q&A with Erin gates

Photo courtesy of Erin Gates

Notes from the Set is all about celebrating interiors through storytelling and collaboration with the incredible designers who shape our industry. Today, I’m spotlighting Erin Gates of Erin Gates Design—the designer behind this month’s featured project—to hear her perspective on the design of the Maine Harbor View project.

JD: What was your original design vision for this project, and how did it evolve along the way?

EG: From the start, the vision for this project was to create a home that felt like a true retreat and tailored to the rhythms of coastal living. We wanted the interiors to complement the stunning views, and as the project evolved, it became more about balancing beauty and durability. That meant incorporating a wide range of textures, patterns, surfaces, and a mix of materials that felt both elevated and approachable.

JD: Were there any design risks or bold choices in this space that you weren’t sure about at first — but now feel really proud of capturing?

EG: Definitely the Peter Dunham wallpaper in the lounge. It’s bold and graphic, and I wasn’t sure how it would land in a vacation home. But it ended up bringing so much personality and energy to the space. With the fold-back doors connecting to the porch, it really helps anchor that whole area as a social hub. I’m so glad we went for it.

JD: There are always little details I love photographing — the things that feel personal. Is there a design element in this space that holds special meaning for you or your client?

EG: Definitely the kitchen. It’s long and narrow, with two distinct islands—one dedicated to prep and the other for seating—which helps define the space without closing it off. We chose different materials for the prep island to give it a furniture-like feel. Beyond the seating island, there’s a dining table that looks out over the water and flows right into the screened porch. It’s a space that balances function and beauty—and it’s where so many daily moments happen, from breakfast to entertaining.

JD: When you imagined someone walking into this space for the first time, what kind of mood or feeling did you want to create?

EG: I wanted people to immediately exhale with their first step. To feel like they'd stepped into a space that was easy, breezy, but still thoughtfully curated. There’s texture, softness, flow, and of course, those views! It all adds up to that coastal calm we were after.

JD: From your perspective as a designer, how does photography help you share your work or shape how your brand is seen?

EG: Photoshoots are a huge investment, but truly the only way to properly market your work. Nothing shows off a beautiful room better than a professionally shot and styled photograph or video.  It shows not only your work in its best light (literally) but also that you are a true professional with the capacity to do high-end work. It’s essential in building a good portfolio and brand.

A BIT ABOUT ERIN

JD: Do you have a favorite material that you try to incorporate into your projects?

EG: I've been very into natural walnut—cabinetry, furniture, antiques—I am a bit over cerused oak and other distressed woods now. I also use grasscloth SO much—it's such a great material to add color and texture without a lot of pattern.

JD: For dinner parties, what are you pouring?  Favorite music choice?

EG: I can usually be found mixing up a classic Cosmopolitan, or some other straight-up drink like a lime basil gimlet. Music is almost always 90's R&B.

JD: Do you have any rules you live by?

EG: I don't, every day brings a new challenge, and I find I can't approach every situation by the same set of rules. I am a pretty cautious person who likes things a certain way, but I would never say I have a rigid approach to life. I do wish I were a bit more carefree though! Maybe next year... :)

JD: What is your biggest indulgence?

EG: My schedule- as a business owner, I am always "working" in some capacity, but I am also able to always be home by 6 to have dinner with my kids, and I almost never work on weekends.

JD: Who would be your dream client and why?

EG: A confident single woman who has bought herself her dream vacation cottage and wants me to redo the whole thing top to bottom. That or a boutique hotel or inn somewhere charming.

Thanks Erin!

xx, Jess