A Serene Coastal Oasis with New England Charm
Ashley Frey
Is the creator and author of Schoolside Design, where you can follow her DIY adventures and renovation projects. Ashley is a fearless DIY'er and not afraid to pick up a power tool. She is currently renovating every room in her 1980's Connecticut-based home that she shares with her husband, three kids, and three dogs.
The home's size, location, and design potential initially drew Ashley and her family to the house. The historic New England town is picturesque with charming villages and natural beauty. " I grew up in a coastal city and have always been drawn to a seaside aesthetic. I wanted our home to carry the same feeling of light, airy and welcoming. I find I achieve that calming look through my color choices of blue, white, and neutrals," she says.
“I love having pops of color as it injects personality and life into varying elements in my home.”
Ashley's home is the perfect mix of bright whites, natural wood tones, neutral furnishings, and coastal textures and elements. Her breezy California Coastal style is relaxed and sophisticated yet refined. She blends classic influences with modern lines creating a welcoming home that makes you want to stay awhile. "I love having pops of color as it injects personality and life into varying elements in my home. Most of the color is on pieces I have built or refreshed like our kitchen hutch and built-ins in our family room," she says.
Upon moving in, Ashley's initial project was to create an open-concept floor plan from the kitchen to the family room. Ashley hosts many parties, so installing a large kitchen island to make the space conducive for gatherings was a must on her list. They installed slider doors and added a large deck that spanned the home, making it perfect for entertaining.
“If you design and create a space that reflects you and your family, you will always find it feels like home.”
"I have many attachments to our home as we have done all the work ourselves. Pouring your heart and soul into something makes you love it much more. I stick to what I love and not what the new hot trend is. If you design and create a space that reflects you and your family, you will always find it feels like home. Your style will change and evolve, but if you stick to your roots, you will always be inspired to make the best decisions in creating the space you love,” she says.
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