At Elizabeth Erin Designs, our success stems from the brilliant minds and passionate hearts of our design team. Today, we’re thrilled to introduce you to the powerhouse trio behind our signature 5D approach: Jodi Peterman, our CEO and creative visionary, and our lead designers, Ashtyn Chance and Haylee Peel. Together, they bring a wealth of experience, creativity, and compassion to every project they touch.
From balancing remote work to tackling design challenges, this team embodies collaboration and innovation. Let’s dive into their stories, inspirations, and what makes them—and their designs—truly one of a kind.
Jodi Peterman: The Visionary Leader
Jodi Peterman is the driving force behind Elizabeth Erin Designs and the host of the Designing in 5D podcast. With over 21 years of experience, Jodi brings a wealth of knowledge and a deeply personal touch to every project. Her laid-back yet professional approach ensures clients feel confident and supported throughout their design journey.
Jodi’s design philosophy is rooted in her belief that interior design transcends aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that uplift and transform lives. Whether she’s working on a new construction project, a spa remodel, or a vacation rental, Jodi finds inspiration everywhere—from the timeless beauty of European architecture to moments of serenity in nature.
Fun Fact: Jodi loves to unplug with nature retreats and is passionate about centering her designs around mindfulness and peace.
Ashtyn Chance: Creativity with Heart
Growing up in central Iowa, Ashtyn was exposed to the world of design through her grandfather, a realtor and builder. This early connection to homes and creativity sparked a lifelong passion for interior design. After earning her degree from the University of Northern Iowa, Ashtyn joined EED and has been part of the team for eight years, working her way up to a lead designer.
Ashtyn’s approach to design is centered on building connections—with her team, her clients, and the spaces she transforms. She admits that once she starts a project, it never really leaves her mind:
“I think about my clients and their projects constantly—sometimes even in my dreams. From the initial floor plan to the finishing touches, I’m always envisioning ways to make their space better. It’s a deeply personal process for me.”
Her passion and dedication shine through in every detail, ensuring clients feel confident and cared for.
Fun Fact: Ashtyn’s boyfriend plays hockey, which means she’s often on the move, balancing her creative career with supporting his passion for the sport.
Haylee Peel: The Traveler’s Perspective
Haylee’s journey to interior design was inspired by a senior-year trip to France and Barcelona, where she fell in love with the beauty of European architecture. Originally planning to follow her family’s medical and teaching careers, Haylee changed paths to pursue her creative passion, earning her degree from Iowa State University’s CIDA-accredited program.
Now engaged and living in Cedar Rapids, Haylee’s experiences as a traveler and explorer infuse her designs with global inspiration. Whether she’s working on residential or commercial projects, she draws from her exposure to diverse styles and cultures to create spaces that feel fresh and innovative.
“I love finding inspiration in unexpected places—hotels, restaurants, or even the hidden gems in nature trails. It’s amazing how many ideas can come from the spaces we travel through every day.”
Fun Fact: Haylee’s favorite design inspirations come from hospitality spaces, where bold trends and innovative ideas push boundaries.
Remote Work: Turning Challenges into Opportunities
The Elizabeth Erin Designs team works remotely, seamlessly collaborating across different states and time zones. This remote approach allows them to serve clients nationwide, offering personalized service no matter where the project is located.
“Working remotely means being adaptable,” says Haylee. “We’ve developed efficient systems to ensure clear communication, from virtual meetings to sharing 3D renderings. And we always make time for in-person visits when needed to create those personal connections.”
One of the challenges they’ve faced is managing projects that involve multiple contractors and locations. For instance, a Florida remodel required close coordination between contractors, architects, and engineers. The team quickly learned that establishing the design team early in the process prevents delays and ensures that every detail aligns with the client’s vision.
“Remote work has pushed us to think outside the box,” Ashtyn shares. “We’ve learned to trust our tools, our team, and our ability to collaborate with clients and contractors in innovative ways.”
Design Challenges: Creativity Under Pressure
Every project comes with its own unique hurdles, from complex layouts to unexpected delays. For the EED team, these challenges are opportunities to learn and grow.
“I wish clients could see how much of their projects live in our hearts,” Ashtyn reflects. “We’re constantly thinking about ways to improve their spaces and create something truly special for them.”
One particularly challenging project involved a penthouse with countless angled walls, requiring multiple measurements and reconfigurations to achieve the perfect layout. Despite the obstacles, the team’s persistence paid off, resulting in a stunning design that exceeded client expectations.
Collaboration: The Secret to Success
What sets Elizabeth Erin Designs apart is the collaborative nature of the team. While each designer brings unique strengths and perspectives, their ability to work together ensures that every project benefits from their combined expertise.
Jodi describes their teamwork as a “blend of creativity and logic,” where every idea is refined through collaboration. From brainstorming initial concepts to finalizing 3D renderings, the team works seamlessly to deliver stunning results for their clients.
What’s Next?
This team isn’t just about design; they’re about connection, innovation, and creating spaces that feel like home. Whether you’re embarking on a remodel, a new construction project, or a commercial endeavor, you can trust that the Elizabeth Erin Designs team will bring their passion and expertise to every step of your journey.
Want to learn more? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn for behind-the-scenes content, or schedule your complimentary consultation today to see how we can help you #AchieveYourVision.