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Your Interior Design Experts

Creating beautiful, livable spaces for homeowners in Chestertown and the Eastern Shore of Maryland.

Erin and staff reviewing paint colors for an upcoming interior design project in the Common Thread Interiors showroom

Our Approach to Interior Design

Common Thread Interiors was founded with the belief that everyone deserves a home that not only looks beautiful but also feels right. Based in Chestertown, Maryland, our journey began when our founder, Erin Zierfuss, realized that many professionals on the Eastern Shore struggled to bring their interior design visions to life. With years of experience in the design industry and a passion for creating harmonious spaces, Erin set out to bridge this gap.

At Common Thread Interiors, our mission is to transform homes across Chestertown and the Eastern Shore into a sanctuaries that reflect each client’s unique style while meeting their everyday needs. We provide personalized design solutions that enhance not only your own personal aesthetic but also the functionality and flow of your living space.

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Our Approach

Tailored Solutions

We believe that each home is unique. Our design solutions are customized to meet the specific tastes, preferences, and lifestyle requirements of our clients. 

Collaborative Process

We work closely with you throughout the design process, ensuring that your vision is realized and that you are completely satisfied with the outcome. 

Professional Guidance

With a wealth of experience in the design industry, our team offers expert advice and innovative solutions to tackle any design challenge. 

Attention to Detail

We focus on the finer details that make a significant difference in the overall look and feel of your home, from the selection of fabrics and finishes to the arrangement of furniture and accessories. 

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Founder of Common Thread Interiors, Erin Zierfuss

Meet Erin Zierfuss

Owner & Principal Designer

Erin Zierfuss has deep roots on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, where she lives in Chestertown with her husband, Karl, their three children—Mackie (13), Tills (11), and Bo (9)—and their ever-growing pack of dogs, Peppa, Thatcher, and an expected third addition. A lifelong resident of this charming waterfront town, Erin treasures her family, her community, and the region’s timeless beauty.

Erin’s passion for design blossomed in 2018 when she partnered with her mother, Elaine Bowman, to relaunch Village House in downtown Chestertown. Seeing the need for quality, custom furniture in the area, Erin reimagined the business model, focusing on showcasing larger, high-quality pieces. Today, Erin collaborates with her mother and aunt, Ann Widener—owner of Peake House in Annapolis—to bring fresh design ideas and craftsmanship to clients throughout the region.

At Common Thread Interiors, Erin leads a dedicated team committed to creating harmonious, cohesive spaces. As the owner and principal designer, she spearheads the creative process, guides client communication, and ensures that every vision reflects the CTI standard of excellence. With a focus on personalized service and American craftsmanship, Erin transforms her clients’ homes into beautiful, timeless spaces that reflect their unique styles.

Erin’s story is one of passion, dedication, and balance—combining her love for design, her commitment to her community, and the joy of a fulfilling family life.

Portrait of Allie P. Lead Designer

Meet Allie Pappas

Lead Designer

Allie Pappas, our lead designer, specializes in material selections, offering expert guidance throughout the design journey. Allie, originally from Southern Virginia, brings a wealth of experience and passion for interior design to the Common Thread Interiors team. She holds a degree in Interior Design from Meredith College in Raleigh, NC, and has explored every facet of the design world, including architecture, design sales, and project management for interior design firms in Bethesda. Since 2021, Allie has called the Eastern Shore home, where she enjoys the easy living and beautiful scenery with her family and three dogs. Allie thrives on the design process, whether it’s new construction or renovations, and prioritizes truly listening to clients’ wants and needs to create comfortable, dreamy homes. We’re thrilled to have Allie on the CTI team—her calm expertise and trained eye for design are invaluable!
Katie Gillespie

Meet Katie Gillespie

Design Associate

Katie Gillespie, our design associate, not only helps us craft interiors that are tailored to every client, but she also ensures that everything stays organized and on track by maintaining budget sheets and timelines, keeping every project running smoothly. Together, we provide a seamless, personalized (and fun!) experience for each client.  Katie has been an integral part of Common Thread Interiors since she first sat down at the table, and we couldn’t be happier to have her on the team. She lives in Chestertown with her husband, Andrew, and their two daughters, Maddison and Riley. Katie brings a background in education and administration, combined with a lifelong passion for interior design. Her creativity and organizational skills have already proven invaluable in helping clients create their dream spaces. Katie thrives on collaboration and loves working closely with clients and the rest of the CTI team to bring every project to life. She’s a terrific addition, and we’re lucky to have her!

Finally, a home that feels complete.

Have you tried furnishing your home by shopping online—only to end up with a space that still doesn’t feel finished? We get it. Piecing together a home from endless internet searches often leads to frustration and mismatched results.

At Common Thread Interiors, we source from the world’s best furniture markets to curate high-quality, timeless pieces that fit your style and space perfectly. No more guesswork—just a home that feels complete.

Let’s make your home look and feel the way you’ve always wanted. Book a consultation today.

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