From jagged bark to fallen leaves, California designer Erica Tanov is deeply inspired by the natural world. Fascinated by nature’s enduring beauty, Erica embeds the spirit and of this trend-proof force into all of her work, from clothing to furniture and even a new book that celebrates it in a beautifully accessible way.
In Design By Nature, Erica teaches readers “how to train your eye to the beauty of the natural world, and then bring the outdoors in.” With easy tutorials and gorgeous photography, the book demonstrates how to incorporate motifs and materials from nature into simple ideas for everyday decorating and design.
Simple, sustainable and always artfully unique with intricate detail and luxurious textiles, this Berkeley designer’s vibe and vision are right up our alley. Erica’s relaxed yet chic clothing epitomizes the Northern Californian aesthetic, which she’s translated to her interior design work as well.
In love her perspective, we asked Erica to share some nature-fused design insight…
Favorite 3 elements in a well-designed room:
Texture, subtle details, spontaneity.
My signature touch is...
Lived-in grandeur. Relaxed luxury. Understated glamour.
Favorite design trend right now:
I try to stay away from trends. It makes me sad when something I love becomes trendy. Seeing something over and over again until it becomes a ubiquitous item, seen in every interior magazine, blog and book, makes it feel less special. So… some things I like that happen to be trendy right now (so I am now getting tired of): sheep/goat skin throws, macramé wall hangings, fiddle leaf figs. I also love wood furniture and cabinets with brass hardware, which is quite popular right now. Can something so classic be considered a trend?
Trend you’re ready to see go:
I guess my answer above covers this question as well. But another trend I’d be happy to no longer consider a trend is succulents. And not because I don’t like them — I love them. I grew up with succulents. They are easy to grow and drought tolerant, which is important in California. I find it funny something that is part of nature can suddenly become trendy. I think I’ll feel better about growing so many succulents once they’re no longer trendy.
Biggest decor mistake most people make:
Matching things too perfectly.
Design rule you love to break:
I don’t really believe in design rules, so I probably break most of them.
Favorite green or eco-design tips:
Buy vintage. Reuse is such a simple way of being eco-friendly.
Favorite natural materials:
Wood and stone… and natural textiles.
Tips for creating an intentional space...
Fill it with only quality, meaningful things you love.
Favorite home/ decor shops...
Erica Tanov (of course!), Flowerland for plants and pots, Layla for colorful towels, BDDW for beautiful modern, yet timeless, furniture.
Favorite current design project:
Collaborating with Clé Tile on a metal tile collection.
Item that instantly upgrades a space...
Wallpaper.
Current design mantra:
Natural beauty.
Love this inspo from Erica Tanov? Discover more pro design tips here.
Favorite 3 elements in a well-designed room:
Texture, subtle details, spontaneity.
My signature touch is...
Lived-in grandeur. Relaxed luxury. Understated glamour.
Favorite design trend right now:
I try to stay away from trends. It makes me sad when something I love becomes trendy. Seeing something over and over again until it becomes a ubiquitous item, seen in every interior magazine, blog and book, makes it feel less special. So… some things I like that happen to be trendy right now (so I am now getting tired of): sheep/goat skin throws, macramé wall hangings, fiddle leaf figs. I also love wood furniture and cabinets with brass hardware, which is quite popular right now. Can something so classic be considered a trend?
Trend you’re ready to see go:
I guess my answer above covers this question as well. But another trend I’d be happy to no longer consider a trend is succulents. And not because I don’t like them — I love them. I grew up with succulents. They are easy to grow and drought tolerant, which is important in California. I find it funny something that is part of nature can suddenly become trendy. I think I’ll feel better about growing so many succulents once they’re no longer trendy.
Biggest decor mistake most people make:
Matching things too perfectly.
Design rule you love to break:
I don’t really believe in design rules, so I probably break most of them.
Favorite green or eco-design tips:
Buy vintage. Reuse is such a simple way of being eco-friendly.
Favorite natural materials:
Wood and stone… and natural textiles.
Tips for creating an intentional space...
Fill it with only quality, meaningful things you love.
Favorite home/ decor shops...
Erica Tanov (of course!), Flowerland for plants and pots, Layla for colorful towels, BDDW for beautiful modern, yet timeless, furniture.
Favorite current design project:
Collaborating with Clé Tile on a metal tile collection.
Item that instantly upgrades a space...
Wallpaper.
Current design mantra:
Natural beauty.
