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with Mother Nature
I believe design starts with function: it should last the test of time. I also believe that beauty is awakened through this intention.
As a designer, I approach each project with the understanding that beauty and resilience are not mutually exclusive. Geography, climate, and elemental challenges inform every material choice and design decision. A living space that holds its ground, aesthetically and structurally is beautiful.
Translating this into design means recognizing that every space calls for its own dialogue. In the southern US, in hurricane-prone regions, impact-resistant glass and reinforced windows aren’t just thoughtful additions—they’re foundational to the design, serving as a quiet defense against high winds. On the West Coast, in areas at risk of wildfires, natural materials like stone and brick, along with non-combustible metals like steel or aluminum, create a fortress that shields against intense heat and flames. In colder northern climates, materials must embrace the ebb and flow of extreme temperatures. While underfloor heating becomes part of a home’s quiet resilience, melting + drying systems are put in place to keep melting snow away from the structure and keep inside dry.
This is what it’s all about—thoughtful, intentional design that doesn’t just respond to the environment but collaborates with it. Our work reflects a commitment to materials that honour their origins and processes that respect their future. Instead of relying on chemical coatings, we lean into natural, time-honoured methods—like treating wood with oils that preserve its character while offering protection.
There are no guarantees against nature’s unpredictability, but there is immense value in designing with heart and foresight. As a team, we create environments that hold space for life, in all its beautiful, unpredictable forms.
As the rebuilding process begins in California, we have joined The Experts Rebuild Hotline, to offer help to those who need guidance. It is so important that we continue this conversation and, as designers, talk about how the choices we make have a huge impact on the longevity and safety of our homes and work environments. Join us on Instagram—we’d love to continue this with you.
xx ashley