An Eye for Beauty with Ashley Kane

Whether it is interiors, vintage furniture, fashion, photography or design, Ashley Kane has an eye for beauty. For over a decade, the California-based tastemaker (and new mother) has documented her personal style and passions with curiosity and heart. In late 2020, she and her husband bought their first home and have been sharing their renovations along the way, inspired by European architecture and design but perfectly suited to their West Coast lifestyle. Below, we take a peek into their cherished abode.

Where do you live and how long have you lived there?`

I live in the Bay Area of California with my husband, daughter, and labradoodle. We bought our first home in the fall of 2020, just a bit over a year now!

Describe your home’s aesthetic in a few words.

Elegant, relaxed, thoughtfully collected.

What inspirations did you have on your mood board when you were planning the décor?

I am very much influenced by European design and their way of life. I love so many things but am drawn to Spanish and Italian style baroque pieces, Italian Murano glass, French chandeliers. I am really into brutalist creations lately as well — bold and incredibly detailed. Summed up, I love collecting things that are striking, like little works of art.

With social media at our fingertips, it’s easy to get side-tracked by the endless design possibilities. How did you ensure your vision remained cohesive?

To be honest, I don’t look to social media often for inspiration. It is quite overwhelming and seemingly redundant these days. I look at my design books of favorite designers from the past and present, while traveling (hotels have given me so many ideas for our home), film and TV. My eyes are always open to my surroundings for new ideas. Inspiration is truly everywhere. My philosophy is that if you fill a home with things you love, it just works. I love a good mix and believe there are no rules with design.

You’re known for your impeccable personal style. Did your fashion sense influence any of the decorative choices in your home?

Aw, thank you for the nice compliment! That’s so kind. I love neutrals and beautiful fabrics, particularly linen! That definitely influences my home curations.

What were some of the biggest transformations you made to the house to make it feel like your own? On the flip side, were there any features you wanted to keep intact?

Upon moving in the walls were stark white, so we painted over it with a warmer tone which instantly made our space feel happier! We had to implement French drains upon moving in so we were able to bring to life a longtime dream of check tiles on our patio, which really elevated our backyard. Our living and dining room has wide plank oak floors which are gorgeous. We will stain them at some point, but they are staying!

Is there a room you find yourself gravitating towards

Our living room is like a warm hug, we always find ourselves hanging out in there the most. We have windows on both sides where the sun sets and rises, so the lighting is always insane

Tell us about some of your favorite pieces in the house. What objects or personal mementos are bringing you the most joy?

A recent favorite treasure that I will have for the rest of time is an Italian baroque console. Since buying a home, I’ve also invested in more custom work seeing as we will be here for a while! I love coming up with new things to add my personal touch. I had pinch pleat curtains made this past year in a lovely fabric. Projects like this make me happy!

What do you love about your neighborhood? How does it inspire you creatively?

Our neighborhood is beyond charming and so green! Being in the hills and in an area where the nature around us is mature, lush, and just everywhere is magic.

Any tips for disconnecting and unwinding from that busy, outside world at the end of a long day?

Put your phone away and create something with your hands. Garden, go on a walk, put a flower arrangement together, turn on a good vinyl!

Finally, we can’t help but ask – what is your favorite Armadillo rug to have underfoot?

This is hard to choose! I love the fluffy comfort of a Nala but your jute rugs are incredibly soft, too! I love the Bramble just as much.

Follow Ashley Kane on Instagram.