There’s something special about walking into a space that just feels right—and often, that magic comes from the details you don’t even notice at first glance. That’s exactly what Erin Zierfuss of Common Thread Interiors brings to the homes she designs here on the Eastern Shore.
A Chestertown native with deep family ties to interior design, Erin recently opened her own furniture showroom and design studio to help homeowners create livable, timeless spaces rooted in craftsmanship and comfort. From layered textiles to custom finishes, her approach is thoughtful, approachable, and inspired by the way real families live.
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Erin to talk about her journey, her vision for Common Thread Interiors, and what it means to grow a design business in the very town she calls home.
Meet Erin Zierfuss: Chestertown’s New Interior Design Showroom Owner
Q: You’ve just opened Common Thread Interiors this year. What inspired you to start your own interior design and furniture showroom at this time—and why Chestertown?
A: I wanted to create a space where people could experience design firsthand—touch fabrics, see craftsmanship up close, and explore different styles in person. Chestertown has always been home for me, and I knew there was a need for a furniture showroom that could serve both locals and the wider Eastern Shore community. It felt like the right time to create and launch something accessible, personal, and rooted here.
A Family Legacy in Interior Design on the Eastern Shore
Q: Launch stories often involve collaboration, vision, and personal goals. How did your experiences with Village House and working alongside your mother and aunt shape your vision for Common Thread Interiors?
A: Working with my Mom at Village House was such a gift—she’s been in the business for over 40 years and taught me so much about craftsmanship, customer care, and what it takes to run a showroom. Her sister, my aunt, also owns her own Shop, the Peake House, that focuses on interiors in Annapolis. Both she and my Mom both have such a knack for design. Being surrounded by their knowledge really has given me the foundation to dream big. Common Thread Interiors is an evolution of that legacy, but with my own spin—combining timeless tradition with a fresh, updated approach.
The Design Details That Matter: Erin’s Approach to Creating Meaningful Spaces
Q: Your showroom emphasizes timeless design, craftsmanship, and attention to detail—from lighting to hardware to furniture. Which aspect of the design process are you most passionate about bringing to your clients here on the Shore?
A: I love helping clients create spaces that feel cohesive and finished. So often, people feel their homes are “almost there” but something isn’t quite right. For me, the most rewarding part is layering in the right furniture, fabrics, and finishes that transform a house into a home. It’s those final touches—whether it’s the perfect light fixture, a well-crafted rug, or custom pillows—that make the space sing.
Building Community Through Design on the Eastern Shore
Q: How has the Chestertown community responded to your showroom since opening, and what does it mean to you to build a business here on the Shore?
A: The response has been wonderful. People have been so supportive and curious about what we’re building and creating. Chestertown is such a close-knit community, and it’s really meaningful to contribute to the town’s growth in my own way. Building a business here isn’t just about design—it’s about relationships, trust, and being part of the fabric of this community. I don’t take that lightly.
The Challenges and Rewards of Running a Design Business
Q: As both a designer and a business owner, what has been the biggest challenge—and the biggest reward—of opening Common Thread Interiors this year?
A: The biggest challenge has definitely been wearing all the hats at once—designer, business manager, bookkeeper, and more. There are days where I feel like a pinball. But the biggest reward has been seeing clients light up when their vision comes to life. Knowing I’ve been a part of creating a space that makes their lives easier and more beautiful—that’s what keeps me inspired.
Designing for Real Life: How Erin Balances Family and Function
Q: How do you balance family life with running a growing design showroom, and does that influence how you design spaces for your clients?
Balancing work and family is always a challenge, but it’s also grounding. I am really proud of the fact that my kids have watched me create this business- I know that will stick with them. Also having a family reminds me that homes need to be livable and practical, not just beautiful. Practical, livable design is one of the cornerstones of my design approach. I want my clients to feel like their homes reflect their style but also support the way they truly live—whether that means performance fabrics, smart intentional layouts, or durable finishes.
Erin’s Vision for the Future of Interior Design on the Shore
Q: Looking ahead, what do you hope Common Thread Interiors will bring to the design landscape of the Eastern Shore in the next few years?
A: My hope is to become a trusted resource for the amazing people of the Eastern Shore—whether they’re building a new home, remodeling, or simply needing that final piece that makes a room complete. I want Common Thread Interiors to showcase quality, customization, and timeless design, while also making the process approachable. Ultimately, I’d love for our showroom to be a hub of inspiration for the Shore.
Why Local Businesses Like Common Thread Interiors Matter
Erin’s passion for design runs deeper than aesthetics—it’s about creating spaces that reflect her clients’ lives and elevate the way they live every day. It’s clear that Common Thread Interiors is more than a showroom; it’s a love letter to home, legacy, and local community.
As a real estate agent, I know how much a home can shape your lifestyle—and how the right people, like Erin, can help turn a house into something truly personal.
If you’re new to the Shore or just looking to reimagine the space you’re in, I’d love to be part of your journey—and connect you with trusted local experts like Erin along the way. Want to see more local business spotlights? Stay tuned—or reach out and let me know who I should interview next!
