Designer Spotlight: Camila Costa Smolensky

Meet Camila Costa Smolensky: self-proclaimed cat mom, lover of the great outdoors and Ashton Woods Raleigh Design Studio Manager. Dive into our conversation with Camila to see how her lifelong love of design helps her create beautiful spaces for our homeowners every day!

How did you get into home design?

My mom has always had a good eye for interior design and decorating, and it's something we've always enjoyed doing together. Whenever we remodeled our home or changed the decor, she would bring me along and it piqued my interest from a young age. As I got older and started to understand what I wanted to do with my life I realized there is nothing better than doing something you are truly passionate about. So, I went to the New York Institute of Art & Design for Interior Design, shortly after earning my bachelor's degree in journalism at Quinnipiac University.

Outside of design, what are your other hobbies and interests?

I love being outside. One of my favorite things to do with my husband and friends is play golf. Although it can be frustrating at times (most of the time), I find it enjoyable to play an outdoor sport and spend time with those I care about. I am also a big foodie and love to try new restaurants - it is hard to pick a favorite food, but I would have to say sushi has a special place in my heart! And some would say I'm a bit of a crazy cat lady... I rescued my cat "The Bunny" when I was in college and he's probably the most spoiled cat you'll ever meet.

Where do you find creative inspiration?

Everywhere. One of the things I find most exciting about Interior Design is that there is not one right answer. Design is all around us no matter where you are. As you take your daily walk and see the sun shining on a beautiful tree, that might encourage you to paint your home office green (like I did!). Or as you’re shopping for a new season, a chunky sweater could inspire you to buy a pillow that reminds you of that same texture.

What’s your favorite Ashton Woods Collection and why?

The Artisan Collection. I love the textures in that collection - the zellige backsplash paired with the gunmetal finish makes me think of organic textures, earthy tones, and coziness. The warmth in the taupe cabinetry is calming and relaxing, perfect for a cup of tea in your screened patio while watching your favorite movie by the fire. I think it's so important to live in a space that you love, and that inspires you every day. There is nothing better than coming home to a place that you can call just that - home.

What’s your favorite Ashton Woods model home and why?

My favorite model is yet to come! We are under construction in Raleigh for our Caroline Model at our new community, The Point. This model has everything I love - textures, earthy tones, organic materials, and thoughtful design elements around every corner. We wanted to bring the outside in with sage green cabinet in the kitchen paired with mixed metals - gold, matte black, chrome and bronze. While everything in this model is fairly neutral, we are adding pops of color with green zellige tiles, brick fireplaces and different tones of wood everywhere. We are also combining modern, high-end elements with vintage pieces for a more transitional style.

Which room in a home is your favorite to design? Why?

I love a good powder room. Although it might seem like a small space in your home, I feel like a powder room can make a huge statement. Because of its size, that is a space that you can let your creativity shine and go bold and dramatic. Think about moody paint, pronounced wallpaper, or intricate trim.

How would you describe your own personal style?

I would say my personal style is transitional. I love a moody space, but I also appreciate a neutral and calming room. If there is one thing I love to do is mixing - whether you're mixing metals, textures, wood tones, I think it makes a space that much more interesting and curated. In my house, you will find pieces that are modern and more masculine, but as you turn the corner, you will see a traditional piece, such as an accent light fixture.

One of the most exciting parts of buying an Ashton Woods home is that homeowners get to personalize their design. What design advice do you have for buyers as they build their new home?

I think planning ahead is super important. Buying a home is one of the most exciting and scary things, so making sure you've done your homework is key. Start with functionality: How do you plan to use the space? What types of storage or seating do you need? What fabrics or color schemes make sense? Then move into style: Do you like Minimalism? Coastal? Eclectic? When you have a vision on the front end and know what you want your space to look and feel like, it helps decisions go faster and be more intentional.

What are one or two key tips you’d give Ashton Woods homeowners for decorating their new space after move-in day?

Think of the 5 Principles of Design: Balance, Rhythm, Scale, Proportion and Harmony. Make sure you are creating a focal point, as it draws the viewer's attention when they enter a room, and use white and negative spaces to create calmness, and reduce mental and visual clutter.

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