Ashley Stark is no stranger to the design world. She serves as STARK Creative Director and co-founder of Ashley Stark Home, and has her pulse on what’s new and what’s next.
C&G: I know it’s difficult, if not impossible, to choose favorites, but do you have any items from your recent launches that you’re loving most at the moment? If not a specific item, is there a palette, pattern, or trend you’re loving?
A.S.: Oh, absolutely. It’s always tough to pick favorites, but I have to say I’m really loving the latest color palettes we’ve introduced. The earthy tones have been a huge hit for me lately, as well as the berry shades; they bring such a warm, inviting feel to any space. As for patterns, I’m really into the more abstract designs we’ve been exploring. They add a fun, modern twist that can elevate a room while still feeling cozy. It’s all about creating that perfect balance.
You have so many inspiring collaborations. Your partnership with Diane James Home is like a breath of fresh air. What would you like to do with them next?
Thank you so much. I absolutely love working with Diane James Home; their floral designs bring such life to our pieces. For our next collaboration, I’d love to explore some unique textures and materials, as well as updated berry shades such as pastel pinks and purples. I think it would be amazing to create something that really embodies the essence of nature while still feeling chic and modern. The possibilities are endless.
Who doesn’t love a Missoni stripe? How did that collaboration come about?
I couldn’t agree more—Missoni stripes are iconic. Our collaboration came about from a shared love for bold patterns and vibrant colors. We’ve always admired their ability to create such visual impact, and STARK wanted to bring that energy into the world of interiors. We started brainstorming how we could blend their signature aesthetic with our textiles, and it just clicked. The result is a collection that feels both timeless and modern, perfect for adding a touch of luxury to any space.
And how do you feel about the intersection of fashion and interiors these days? Some things don’t always translate, but Missoni’s designs work brilliantly on rugs.
I’m so excited about the intersection of fashion and interiors right now. It’s fascinating to see how patterns and colors can seamlessly translate between the two worlds. Designers like Missoni are such a great example of this; their bold, vibrant designs absolutely shine on rugs and textiles. I think this cross- pollination brings a fresh energy to both spaces and wardrobes. I love experimenting with how those fashion-forward elements can elevate interior design.
With Scalamandré, how often do you look to the archive for inspiration, while also incorporating all-new designs?
Working with Scalamandré is such a dream! I find myself diving into their archive quite often for inspiration. Their rich history and timeless designs offer so much to draw from, and there’s a beauty in honoring those classic patterns. At the same time, I love the challenge of incorporating fresh, modern elements to create something new and exciting. It’s all about finding that perfect balance—blending the old with the new to keep the designs feeling relevant and vibrant. Every piece tells a story, and I’m so passionate about continuing that legacy while adding our unique touch.
Design is never static and seems to be moving faster than ever. As part of a legacy company, how do you balance the esteemed STARK history while also moving forward, with an eye always focused on the future?
Balancing our rich history at STARK with the need to innovate is definitely a delicate dance. I deeply respect the legacy and craftsmanship that have defined our brand for generations, and it’s essential to honor that heritage. At the same time, I’m incredibly passionate about pushing boundaries and exploring new trends. I find that looking at our history can inspire fresh ideas—there are timeless elements that we can reinterpret for today’s aesthetic. It’s about finding those connections and applying them in a way that feels modern and relevant. Staying in tune with current design movements while respecting our roots allows us to create pieces that resonate with both longtime fans and new audiences. It’s all about evolution.
You have an enthusiastic and loyal online following. How does Ashley Stark Home stay engaged with its community?
I absolutely cherish our online community. Staying engaged with them is a top priority for me. We love sharing behind-the-scenes glimpses of our design process, whether it’s sneak peeks of new collections or insights into our inspirations. Social media is such a wonderful platform for conversation, and I enjoy interacting with our followers—answering questions, getting their feedback, and seeing how they incorporate our pieces into their own spaces. It’s so rewarding to see how passionate everyone is about design and home decor. Their enthusiasm fuels my creativity, and I always aim to foster that sense of community. After all, design is all about connection, and I feel so lucky to have such a supportive audience.
