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Located in the tranquil landscape of East Texas, approximately two hours from Dallas, lies a unique rural community known for its equestrian center and numerous fishing spots. It is here that Ashley Avrea Cathey, the founder and principal designer of Avrea and Company, embarked on an ambitious construction project five years ago. The goal was to create a four-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bathroom residence that harmoniously combines modern Texas architecture with the needs of a young family. This home, covering about 6,000 square feet, was designed in partnership with SHM Architects and serves as a welcoming retreat for a family that spends their summers away from Texas.
Designing for Family and Entertainment
Understanding the needs of her clients—a husband and wife with three young children—Cathey aimed to create a space conducive to family gatherings and entertaining friends. “The family wanted ample space for entertaining, so areas for group relaxation were essential,” she explained. Instead of isolating living areas, the designer embraced an open-concept layout, transforming the living room into a multifunctional space. This expansive design includes a dining table, various lounging arrangements, and straightforward access to the patio, ensuring that social interactions flow effortlessly throughout the home.
The kitchen exemplifies this philosophy with its impressive 18-foot vaulted ceiling and strategically placed skylights, enhancing the sense of space and airiness. Even with multiple guests gathered around the four island seats and breakfast area, the environment remains inviting and comfortable. To provide a touch of exclusivity for visitors, a separate keeping room was designed, featuring a coffee bar and cozy fireplace, offering guests a private retreat away from the main living areas.
Functional Design Choices
Cathey’s design philosophy prioritizes both aesthetics and practicality. To protect the furnishings from inevitable spills and wear associated with family life, she selected indoor/outdoor fabrics for “literally every single piece of furniture.” This choice reflects a deep understanding of the balance between style and durability, allowing the family to enjoy their home without constant maintenance concerns. “It doesn’t look like it could endure a lot, but everything was designed with comfort in mind,” she noted.
Throughout the residence, vibrant threads of red and contemporary artwork punctuate the warm neutral color palette and hemlock wood paneling. This thoughtful curation not only adds visual interest but also links the home’s design to the clients’ more traditional Dallas residence, offering a fresh perspective while respecting their style preferences.
Overcoming Construction Challenges
The journey to completing this beautiful home was not without challenges. The remote location presented significant obstacles during construction and installation. Cathey acknowledged that the project took longer than expected due to its “middle of nowhere” setting, yet the clients maintained a calm and patient demeanor throughout the process. Their patience ultimately yielded a result that satisfied all parties, underscoring the importance of collaboration in achieving exceptional outcomes.
The home serves not just as a living space but also as a canvas for creative expression. Each corner is meticulously designed, from intimate nooks for relaxation to a vibrant dining area adorned with flowers from the wife’s garden. Each design element narrates a story, reflecting the family’s lifestyle and preferences, which is central to Cathey’s approach to interior design.
The Essence of a Family Home
In conclusion, Ashley Avrea Cathey’s work on this Texas residence encapsulates the essence of modern home design—where comfort meets creativity. The thoughtful integration of communal spaces, durability in design, and a focus on the client’s lifestyle create a home that is not only visually striking but also highly functional. As the family gathers in their beautifully crafted spaces, the home stands as a testament to the art of design, where every detail is meticulously considered to enhance the overall living experience.