Spotlight: Inside Form Interior

Today we are talking with the visionary force behind Form Interior Décor & Design—Creative Director and Designer, Erica Schalkwyk. Stepping into the realm of interior design in January 2014, Erica turned her lifelong dream into a reality with the inception of Form Interior. Fuelled by a profound love for homes and the families that inhabit them, Form Interior is not merely a design studio; it’s a manifestation of passion and dedication.

At the heart of Erica’s approach is a profound understanding that a home is more than just a physical space—it is a sanctuary, a canvas that should pay tribute to the individuals who inhabit it.

What drives your design decisions in your own interior space? Can you tell us about your personal design philosophy?

The word ‘curated’ is the basis on which I base my design decisions in my own home. Each piece in my home is an heirloom art piece carefully considered and collected over a period of 15 years to finally come together into this gallery that pays tribute to our family.

How would you describe the predominant style or theme that runs throughout your own interior? What elements define it?

Natural Textures and Neutral Elements and Colours. The entire palette is made of ceramics, leathers, marbles, linens, wood and stone. The wall and sculpture art pieces are monochromatic in charcoals, inks and oils.

Are there any significant inspirations from your own interior that you have applied in your professional practice? Could you share specific examples?

I enjoy introducing my clients to South African artists and furniture designers. Together they make up a palette and gallery of world-class design and can make every home a showpiece which promotes not only an aesthetic but a sustainable and timeless philosophy and way of life.

When it comes to designing your own space, do you prioritize aestheticism or functionality, and why?

They are not mutually exclusive or can be prioritized above one another. A home is a place where we have the possibility to use beautifully crafted and quality pieces to serve important every day functions. If we live and come home to places that offer us a sense of security, safety and comfort – it also offers the function of making us happy.

Which section or room in your personal interior are you most proud of, and what does it reflect about you as an interior designer?

I’m most proud of the living, dining and kitchen spaces. I’m actually most proud of every space that we spend as a family together. It makes me so happy to see how happy this beautiful home makes them. It makes our world a better place.

Have you ever faced a situation where you fell behind schedule or encountered unexpected challenges in a project? How did you handle it and make things right?

Building is always stressful and behind schedule. It’s not an exact science and challenges always happen but it’s one of those things that one should simply except and get through it with gratitude for being able to invest in this manner in the first place. We adjusted the finishing schedule and allowed for plenty of snagging to happen while we lived there. Life is both wonderful and awful at the same time and building is exactly the same.

Can you describe the workspace where you work every day? What features or elements in your workspace help you stay creative and productive?

I used to be in a pretty office that I shared with my wonderful employees but now I am on my own and working from home. My study is filled with art pieces that I love and two laughing baby boys doing arts and crafts while mom works. It’s pure bliss.

Where do you currently live, and could you share a bit about your neighbourhood? What do you appreciate the most about it in terms of design and lifestyle?

I live in the Parks of Johannesburg and I simply love the trees and greenery that this neighbourhood offers. We have lovely restaurants and shops on our door step and the entire place is very kid and family friendly.

What is your favourite room in your own home, and how have you decorated it to reflect your personal style?

The living areas – It is not only beautiful but comfortable to live in. I wanted white couches but covered the seats in leather to make it kid and animal friendly but still maintain that softness of fabric and linen looks.

If you were hosting friends and family for dinner, how would you set the table? What elements would you incorporate to create a memorable dining experience?

I love Wonky Ware and have an entire range. I also have Table cloths and napkins from Samesyn as well as wooden and ceramic homeware pieces from Weylandts and Haus. This makes for a more rustic style of hosting which adds to the enjoyment of food with family and friends.

Where do you find your current sources of inspiration for your interior design work?

Just the people who live in the houses that I do. I love being able to use my learned knowledge to make their lives better and more beautiful.

Can you describe your favourite style, texture, and colour that you have used throughout your personal space, and why do you love them?

Still simply natural elements and textures as mentioned above. Even in my dress sense, I love more neutral and earthy tones as well as striking blacks and whites. I love nature and bringing all that beauty and style into the home and our lives.