We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ashleigh Clark. Check out our conversation below.
Ashleigh, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: What do you think is misunderstood about your business?
One of the most misunderstood aspects of our business is that interior design is purely about aesthetics. In reality, our work is deeply strategic—every decision is made to enhance how people live, work, and connect within a space while ensuring beauty and functionality exist in perfect balance.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Ashleigh Clark, principal designer and founder of Ashleigh Clark Interior Design Group, a full-service interior design firm dedicated to creating timeless, elevated spaces that reflect both beauty and purpose. What makes our work unique is the balance we strike between creativity and strategy—we’re not just designing rooms, we’re shaping experiences that enhance how people live and connect within their homes or workplaces. Over the years, our studio has become known for pushing boundaries while maintaining a sense of comfort and authenticity in every project we touch.
We’re currently in an exciting new chapter as we expand into our own building in Strongsville, which will soon house our design studio and our new retail boutique, Collected by Clark. The boutique will showcase our curated selection of home décor and accessories, allowing people to experience our design philosophy firsthand. It’s been incredibly rewarding to see our brand grow from a design studio into a creative destination where design, craftsmanship, and storytelling come together under one roof.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
Without question, my parents saw me clearly before I ever saw myself. They recognized my creative eye and determination long before I understood how those qualities could shape a career, encouraging me to take risks, trust my instincts, and build something meaningful from my passion for design. Their unwavering belief laid the foundation for everything I’ve created today.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Absolutely—there was a moment early on when I almost gave up. Shortly after I opened my studio, the pandemic hit, and what was supposed to be an exciting new beginning quickly turned into one of the most challenging times of my career. Leaving my previous firm came with unexpected obstacles—financial uncertainty, isolation, and the weight of building something from the ground up in such uncertain times. But those challenges ultimately shaped the resilience and vision behind Ashleigh Clark Interior Design Group, reminding me that growth often comes from the hardest seasons.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
One of the biggest lies our industry tells itself is that good design is about following trends. In reality, true design has nothing to do with what’s popular in the moment—it’s about creating spaces that feel authentic, personal, and timeless. The best interiors aren’t a reflection of what’s “in,” but a reflection of the people who live and work within them.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m surrounded by my family—whether we’re camping under the stars, relaxing by a fire, or simply spending time together with our dog by our side. Those quiet, grounding moments in nature always remind me why I do what I do—they refill my creativity, bring me clarity, and inspire the next wave of ideas I bring back to my work.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://AshleighClarkIDG.com
- Instagram: Ashleigh Clark IDG
- Facebook: Ashleigh Clark IDG
Image Credits
Photography by Kamron Kahn
