Meet Elena Erykalina | Interior Designer & CG artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Elena Erykalina and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Elena, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
The first time I thought about starting my own business, I had two thoughts that kept coming to mind. Firstly, I saw how repetitive projects were being created, where people were getting the same solutions over and over again, solutions that could easily be copied from Pinterest. I wanted to bring something interesting and unique to each project, incorporating a piece of the client’s personality. I wanted people to see the created interior and be able to relate it to the owner. The second thought was quite simple. After working for several years in a company with a specific style, I felt constrained and wanted to bring in something of my own.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When I first started my journey, it was crucial for me to adhere to a particular style and learn how to work within it. However, over time, I realized that these constraints were confining. Strictly following a single design trend limited my creativity and flexibility. In one of my recent projects, I combined French chic and Soviet interiors to create a cozy apartment for a family couple with “memories” from childhood. In another instance, I was handed a project where construction of the house had already begun according to another architect’s plan. It was essential to work quickly to avoid delaying the construction. Thanks to the cohesive teamwork, we were able to quickly redesign the layout and create a modern space with large windows in a classic log house. This blend allows you to see the classic house from the outside and imagine what lies behind its doors, but inside awaits a whirlwind of modern finishes, vibrant fabrics, and interesting solutions.

My international experience has allowed me to approach design from various perspectives. What may seem conventional to others, I can reinterpret in a unique way.

I want the world to know that my approach to design is not just about following trends but creating spaces that reflect the personality and lifestyle of each client, blending cultural influences seamlessly.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
You could say I’m that friend visiting the area, as I’ve only been in Los Angeles for a year and it’s still unfolding for me. The first thing I did when I arrived was visit all the architectural landmarks famous worldwide—those I once studied in my “Contemporary Architecture Examples” class. It was an unprecedented luxury for me to see them not just in pictures but in real life. I was particularly captivated by the sleek lines of the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the iconic silhouette of the Griffith Observatory against the Hollywood Hills.

During a week-long trip, I would definitely set aside time for flea markets, as you can find incredible treasures and beautiful interior items there. One of my favorite spots is the Rose Bowl Flea Market, where I discovered unique vintage furniture pieces that now adorn my own home. Exploring these markets has been a delightful way for me to connect with the eclectic and creative spirit of Los Angeles.

I know there’s still much more for me to discover, and I look forward to the opportunity to showcase the city in a couple of years or a decade. But the people, the weather, and the architecture, with their little delightful places hidden around every corner, continue to take my breath away every day.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Even though I didn’t come from a creative family, my parents were very attentive to my preferences. They noticed my curiosity about architecture, decoration, and design and helped me choose a profession aligned with my interests.

I owe a lot to my husband, Anton Bondarev. His unwavering belief in me gave me the confidence to fully pursue working for myself. His support has been invaluable, and no one believes in me as much as he does.

I owe my professional skills and development in the field to my former boss. He was not just a leader but also a mentor with extensive experience. Thanks to his guidance and advice, I was able to avoid many mistakes and quickly develop in the technical aspects of our work. Even though we no longer work together, we still maintain a warm relationship.

I’m deeply grateful for the support and guidance from these key people in my life. Their influence has significantly shaped my career and allowed me to pursue my passions fully.

Website: https://www.behance.net/elenaer

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/lena.eryka/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elena-erykalina/