Hey there, I'm Ashley. In early 2015 my husband and I bought our first home, a 100-year-old fixer upper in San Diego, CA. We chose the house needing a complete overhaul - down to each nook and cranny. I’ve spent a decade restoring its original beauty and added our own character, too.

We loved what the house became after the hard work, but only in the past few years of modifying it further to accomodate our growing family has it really become what I’m most proud of. It’s now the backdrop to our kids’ childhood - and want it to feel as warm, colorful, and playful as the homes of our favorite children’s books. I’m still working to add more color, pattern, and importantly - storage.

I have a degree in studio art and I worked in the education department of art museums for over a decade. I’m not a contractor or a trade professional, but “research” is my middle name, and I love learning it all - from window restoration to carbon sequestration.

Here’s what you can expect from me:

  • Stories and experiences going through major renovations

  • How-tos and tips for home upgrades and old house maintenance

  • DIYs big and small to empower women to take on projects

  • How my family lives in our home

  • Favorite products that I stand behind

  • Unique artwork from diverse artists

  • Sustainable practices, eco-friendly products, and a low-waste lifestyle

Why The Gold Hive?

Gold /gōld/ (n):
1. The better half of my surname.
2. Something considered to be precious.

Hive /hīv/ (n):
1. a shelter.
2. a place where people are busy.

2020 House Tour

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