Blending heritage details with modern ease, this thoughtfully reimagined family home strikes a warm, lived-in tone without sacrificing sophistication. Designed by Ashley Montgomery Design and photographed by Lauren Miller, the San Francisco abode features character-rich materials, vintage-inspired accents, and a layered sensibility that feels both personal and timeless. A true collaboration, this family-friendly home reflects how people live—and gather—today.
From Ashley Montgomery Design… The Lafayette project was a truly special collaboration from start to finish. Nestled in a quiet, tree-lined neighborhood, the home had great bones and a classic layout, but it needed a fresh perspective to bring it to life for a young family looking to put down roots. From the beginning, the vision was clear: create a warm, welcoming, and timeless space that balanced livability with layered design details—mixing traditional influences with modern touches.
Our inspiration for the design drew heavily from the client’s love for collected, character-rich spaces. We focused on creating rooms that felt both curated and effortless. Key design elements included custom millwork, handpicked vintage-inspired lighting, and a soft, earthy palette punctuated with moody accents. One standout moment was selecting the tile for the servery—a handmade terracotta checkerboard pattern that brought just the right amount of texture and old-world charm.
Like all projects, there were challenges along the way. Unexpected material delays required a shift in timeline and priorities. But thanks to clear communication and a collaborative spirit between the design team, contractor, and client, we turned those moments into opportunities for creative problem-solving. One memorable turning point was the reconfiguration of the mudroom and laundry area—what started as a utilitarian space ended up being one of the client’s favourite spots in the house, with a unique floor tile and beautiful statement light fixture.
“The Lafayette project is a reflection of both the client’s lifestyle and our thoughtful, refined aesthetic — a home that feels deeply personal and lived-in, while still maintaining a sense of elegance and quiet sophistication.”
– Ashley Montgomery
Discover the talent behind the story… Interior Design: Ashley Montgomery Design · Photography: Lauren Miller · Builder: Branagh
