Designer and founder of Color Works Katie Decker-Erickson knows how to make color work. Deftly bridging the gap between residential and commercial built environments, she’s found her niche in designing multi-family housing spaces, indoors and out, from wall color to art pieces, full design plans and more, and she couldn’t be happier to bring together her talents and passion to work for her clients.

Over the last 17 years, Katie has become a recognized expert in the multi-family design industry, known for her ability to transform outdated or underutilized spaces into vibrant, desirable properties. We asked Katie to walk us through how she got to where she is, where following her passion has led her, and the current and continuing trends in multi-family design. 

STIR: What got you started on your journey in design, and where has it taken you?

Katie Decker-Erickson: My journey in design is deeply intertwined with my passion for multi-family spaces. I started Color Works Design in 2007, and after three years of color consulting and design in the residential sector, I was drawn to the unique challenges and opportunities that multi-family design presents—creating environments where people live, connect, and thrive together. I’m fascinated by how design can enhance communal living experiences, making spaces not only visually appealing but also functional and welcoming for diverse groups of residents.

My projects often involve large-scale renovations that breathe new life into older buildings, incorporating elements that add value for both property owners and residents, from innovative amenity spaces like dog parks and clubhouse recreation areas to thoughtful touches in model units, and from exterior color schemes that attract new tenants to the interior layouts that make daily living more enjoyable. 

Throughout my career, multi-family design has taken me and my team to new heights, allowing me to work on projects that have significantly impacted the communities we serve. 

STIR: Who is your Account Executive, and what role do they play in your design process?

KDE: We rely on our Account Executive, Lee Gardner. Lee has been an outstanding Sherwin-Williams representative, consistently providing us with valuable technical information and guiding us in the right direction for design decisions. He’s always prompt in returning calls and texts, offering support exactly when we need it. His positive attitude is infectious—we’re pretty convinced he never has a bad day! Lee’s dedication and expertise have been invaluable to our projects.

STIR: Walk us through what a typical project might entail and how you interact with architects along the way.

KDE: The working relationship with architects is one of the most collaborative and essential aspects of our design process at Color Works. We view architects as key partners in bringing a project to life, and our interactions are built on mutual respect, open communication, and a shared commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.

A typical project begins with a thorough consultation between our design team and the architects involved. This early stage is critical for aligning on the overall vision, understanding the architectural constraints and possibilities, and ensuring that our design concepts complement the structural and functional aspects of the building. We work closely with architects to review plans, discuss materials, and refine the layout to ensure that every design element enhances the space’s intended use.

As the project progresses, our collaboration deepens. We maintain ongoing communication with the architects, frequently reviewing drawings, making necessary adjustments, and coordinating on details like lighting, finishes, and spatial flow. This iterative process allows us to refine our designs in real time, ensuring that everything aligns with both the architectural intent and the client’s vision.

Throughout the project, we rely on the architects’ expertise to guide decisions that impact the building’s integrity and functionality, while they trust us to bring creativity and a nuanced understanding of how people will experience and interact with the space. By working hand in hand, we ensure that the final result is not only beautiful and functional but also meets all the technical and regulatory requirements.

STIR: When it comes to designing multi-family environments, what special considerations do you make that are different from the considerations made in other types of environments?

KDE: One of the primary factors we focus on is creating a balance where shared spaces like lobbies, lounges, and outdoor areas foster connection and interaction among residents, and where private living spaces feel like personal retreats.

Another key consideration is durability and functionality. Multi-family environments experience high traffic, so we prioritize materials and finishes that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also durable and easy to maintain. This ensures that the spaces remain beautiful and functional over time, even with frequent use.

Safety and security are also top priorities. We incorporate design elements that enhance security, such as strategic lighting, secure access points, and thoughtful layout planning to make residents feel safe in all areas, whether it’s in the parking garage or the gym.

Code compliance and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance are essential elements of our design process. We ensure that all designs meet local building codes and regulations, and we design spaces that are accessible to all individuals, regardless of physical abilities. This includes features like accessible entrances, elevators, proper signage, and barrier-free pathways to ensure that everyone can navigate and enjoy the spaces comfortably. 

Multi-family environments often cater to specific demographics, whether it’s young professionals, families, or seniors. We tailor our designs to resonate with the lifestyle preferences, aesthetic tastes, and functional needs of the intended residents.

STIR: How has multi-family space design changed in the course of your career? How do you expect it will continue to evolve?

KDE: One of the most notable changes is that people are living in multi-family housing much longer than they used to. It’s no longer just a transitional stop after college; for many, it’s become a long-term living solution.

Because of this, we now focus on creating spaces that residents are proud to call home for an extended period of time. These are not just temporary residences; they are places where people are making significant life memories—like bringing home their babies, hosting birthday parties, and celebrating milestones. Our goal is to design environments that are not only functional and stylish but also warm, welcoming, and truly reflective of the residents’ lives.

We expect this trend to continue, and as people spend more time in multi-family settings, we also anticipate a growing demand for smart systems and technology that enhance convenience, security, and energy efficiency, and we foresee a greater emphasis on luxury amenities, personalized services, and design elements that cater to a more sophisticated lifestyle.

STIR: What are some of your favorite Sherwin-Williams colors to use in interiors, and in what applications?

KDE: Some of my favorite Sherwin-Williams colors to use in interiors are those that offer versatility and timeless appeal, making them perfect for a variety of applications. Drift of Mist SW 9166 (238-C2) is a fantastic neutral that brings a subtle warmth to any space without overpowering it. Naval SW 6244 (253-C6) and Iron Ore SW 7069 (251-C7) bring sophistication to any space, like as an accent wall or even in cabinetry.

For a true, deep black, Tricorn Black SW 6258 (251-C1) is one of my favorites. It’s a rich, bold color that works beautifully on interior doors, accent walls, and even cabinetry. It’s the perfect choice when you want to make a strong, sophisticated statement. Pure White SW 7005 (255-C1) is an excellent choice when you need a neutral white that doesn’t pull warm or cool. And for spaces where I want to evoke a calm, coastal vibe, Sea Salt SW 6204 (217-C1) is a beautiful choice. 

STIR: What are some of the key Sherwin-Williams colors being used for exteriors right now? Does the popularity of colors vary by region? Why?

KDE: When it comes to exterior paint, certain Sherwin-Williams colors have become particularly popular across various regions, though their popularity can indeed vary depending on local trends, climate, and architectural styles.

Grays Harbor SW 6236 (222-C6) is popular in coastal and urban areas. It brings a modern yet timeless look to exteriors and pairs well with crisp whites and darker accents for a balanced, contemporary feel. Wall Street SW 7665 (233-C5) is a favorite in more urban and industrial areas. Its strong presence makes it a great choice for a bold, modern statement with an exterior, and it pairs beautifully with natural stone and metal accents. 
 

Underseas SW 6214 (218-C5) is particularly popular in regions with abundant natural landscapes, like the Carolinas. It blends seamlessly with the environment, making homes feel connected to their surroundings, while still offering a unique and refreshing look. As one of the brightest whites, High Reflective White SW 7757 (256-C1) is an excellent choice for exteriors in warmer climates.

Creamy SW 7012 (261-C3) is a popular choice in regions that favor a more traditional or farmhouse aesthetic. It adds warmth and charm to exteriors, making homes feel welcoming and timeless, especially when paired with darker trims or natural wood accents. And Tricorn Black SW 6258 (251-C1) is increasingly popular for creating a dramatic, modern exterior.

You can explore all the latest color trends within our 2025 Colormix^® Forecast, listen in on color and design discussions from industry experts on our new podcast, Colormixology^™, and connect with your Account Executive for support with your next multi-family project.

Top image: Reddened Earth SW 6053 (194-C5), Anew Gray SW 7030 (243-C2), Garret Gray SW 6075 (242-C6), Tricorn Black SW 6258 (251-C1). All photos courtesy of Color Works.