Lauren Ashley, founder and CEO of Lauren Ashley Experiences, a design firm specializing in creating livable spaces that inspire clients to be their authentic selves, recently transformed a dated and dull downtown high-rise into a personality-packed oasis that tells a unique story. Located in the heart of the city, this high-rise was a dream come true for Lauren, offering modern contemporary finishes, sleek wood-style cabinets, luxury vinyl flooring, and a breathtaking panoramic cityscape view.
The Transformation Journey
Before the makeover, the high-rise was in desperate need of a refresh. However, Lauren’s keen eye for design and creativity turned the space into an inviting, colorful, and personality-filled home that truly reflects her style and personality. The most meaningful part of the space for Lauren is the green wall, which she created during a time of personal loss to process her emotions creatively. Sharing this piece with close friends made it even more special and turned a difficult moment into something beautiful, making the space feel like home.
The Challenges of Designing
While the transformation was successful, designing the home came with its own set of challenges. As a designer, Lauren struggled with being her own worst client, striving for perfection and having a vision that was hard to shake. Over time, she learned to embrace the evolving nature of design and let go of the idea that everything had to be ‘finished’ to be enjoyed. Each new piece added to the space brought her joy and told a story, making the home a true reflection of her journey and growth.
Moving Forward
Recently, Lauren had to bid farewell to her dream space and transition to a smaller studio apartment, which she describes as an emotional journey and downsizing challenge. Despite the difficulty of leaving behind a space that had become a part of her, she sees this change as an opportunity for growth and reflection. Every change in life, whether it’s a new home, partner, or apartment, presents opportunities to evolve and create spaces that truly reflect who we are.
As Lauren embarks on this new chapter, she encourages others to embrace the journey of making a space their own, filled with stories, memories, and personal touches that bring joy and comfort. The transformation of this downtown high-rise serves as a testament to the power of design to shape our lives and create spaces that inspire us to be our authentic selves.
