Southern-based interior designer Ashley Gilbreath is an expert on the comforts of home. Throughout her fifteen years in the industry, she has been featured in the likes of Southern Living, LUXE and Country Living magazines. Her designs are thoughtfully created to lend fresh perspective to spaces in which families can gather and make memories. Recently appointed to design the impressive backyard space in the Atlanta Showhouse – sponsored by House Beautiful – Gilbreath strives to create casual, elegant spaces that are made for everyday living.
FG: What inspired you to become a designer?
AG: From a young age I enjoyed drawing houses and loved the challenge of determining where each space fit best – solving the puzzle to create the perfect home. Fast forward to my time at Auburn, and after two years in the architecture program, I decided interiors were my passion, so I switched majors and the rest is history. Home forms the backdrop for some of life’s most precious memories; I realized this at a young age and it influenced my decision to become a designer. I feel so privileged to get to play a small part in the way people remember their lives.
Photo Credit: Jeff Herr
FG: What’s your favorite designer tip?
AG: Edit! In the world of information overload – with access to thousands of images and ideas at our fingertips – being able to filter and edit is so important! Spaces need to be accessible. A balance between sentimental and current pieces allows a space to be elevated for a formal setting or more casual for a family movie night.
Photo Credit: Laurey Glenn
FG: What was your outdoor vision for the Atlanta Showhouse?
AG: The showhouse is in such a beautiful setting, and my goal was to complement the surroundings and create a gracious outdoor living space ideal for a casual family supper or entertaining. A neutral color palette allows the craftsmanship, details and textures of the Frontgate pieces to shine. I chose teak furniture for its durability, clean lines and effortless flow with the surroundings. The outdoor fabrics used throughout stand up well to the elements and make outdoor living a breeze.
FG: What excited you about partnering with Frontgate?
AG: I love the exceptional quality, versatile range and accessibility of Frontgate products!
Photo Credit: Laurey Glenn
Photo Credit: Laurey Glenn
FG: What did you expect would be the biggest challenge with this year’s Atlanta Showhouse space?
AG: The outdoor space at this year’s Atlanta Showhouse is very grand, so our biggest challenge was trying to make each space feel unique while still holding hands in cohesion.
To check out Gilbreath’s projects and capture a glimpse of her design journey, follow her on Instagram at @ashleygilbreathinteriordesign. And head over to House Beautiful’s Whole Home to learn more about this year’s project and get the latest updates on the design reveal.
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