ABOUT THE GEM STATE GROUP

Eric brings passion, experience, and a strong work ethic to the table every day for his clients.

In addition to being a licensed real estate professional, Eric is an accomplished designer, and contractor with hundreds of completed residential and commercial projects to his name. His diverse background makes him a rare blend of creative vision and technical know-how.

Eric’s love for real estate, building, and design began early. He was inspired by his “uncle,” the renowned architect Craig Ellwood, and was deeply influenced by architectural icons such as Richard Neutra, Frank Gehry, Frank Lloyd Wright, Rudolf Schindler, Charles Eames, Eldon Davis, A. Quincy Jones, Robert Graham, John Lautner, Paul Williams, Richard Meier, and others.

Growing up in Southern California, Eric watched—and participated—as his parents designed and built two architectural waterfront homes. As a teen, he assisted with project management and his mother’s interior design work, learning firsthand the complexities of construction and design from the best.

In parallel, Eric also grew up immersed in the packaging industry. His stepfather was a pioneering entrepreneur in packaging manufacturing, and Eric went on to build a successful career in the field, applying his design and marketing talents to packaging solutions for retail and foodservice.

His unique ability to visualize and create functional, beautiful design solutions for packaging naturally translated into designing homes and restaurants. Encouraged by his wife, Debra Donnelly—a lifelong interior designer and accomplished stager following a 14-year career at ABC/Disney—Eric embraced the idea that “a home is the ultimate package.” Together, they’ve designed, staged, remodeled, and built hundreds of distinctive properties.

Eric’s deep knowledge of design, staging, architecture, engineering, construction, and waterfront properties makes him an invaluable advocate and resource for both owners and tenants.

Community Leadership & Recognition

Eric has spent a lifetime in community service. He has served as a City Commissioner and on the boards of many nonprofits, including:

- American Red Cross
- American Cancer Society
- YMCA
- Police Activities League
- SHARE
- UCLA Alumni Association
- National Restaurant Association
- Crossroads Community Foundation / PS Arts
- Institute of Packaging Professionals
- RAND Policy Circle
- Pier Restoration Corporation
- Virginia Avenue Park
- Padres El Cáncer
- PTA, and more.

In 2010, Eric was honored to be nominated by his hometown and selected from thousands of national applicants to receive the National Humanitarian of the Year Congressional Award, sponsored by the SBCA. He was presented the award at the U.S. Capitol on May 5, 2010, by Congressman John Lewis and other prominent members of Congress.

If you are looking for experienced professionals who work hard, think creatively, and put clients first, we are the team you can count on.