A Modern Belgian Farmhouse by the Sea

The homeowners—longtime locals who once lived steps from the sand—were ready for more space, more privacy, and a home that could evolve alongside their growing family. They stumbled upon a rare oversized lot in the Hermosa Valley and enlisted Ausland early on. What began as a remodel quickly transitioned into a full-scale build, with architect Joseph Fournier and builder RJ Smith Construction bringing the vision to life.

“From day one, they wanted the house to feel personal and soulful—like it had always been there,” Ashley shares. “It needed to host big BBQs and quiet movie nights, playdates and morning coffee. Every detail was about creating ease, comfort, and beauty in equal measure.”

Design: Ausland Interiors | Photography: Laura Dart

A Modern Farmhouse with Soul

The exterior draws inspiration from European farmhouses, with Mediterranean landscaping by Kelsea Fair and Rob Jones creating a relaxed, sun-soaked retreat. Thoughtful layering of stone, plaster, and warm wood millwork carries inside, where not a single wall is left plain. Instead, Ashley infused every corner with texture—Roman clay, paneling, wallpaper, plaster, and tile—to ensure the home feels collected and lived-in, not sterile.

The light-filled foyer sets the tone with nickel-gap wood millwork and glowing alabaster lighting. From there, sightlines stretch through the great room to the outdoors, where multiple patios and dining spaces blur the line between inside and out.

The Heart of the Home

The kitchen is a study in restraint and drama. Seamless millwork conceals appliances, allowing one hero detail—the burnished brass hood (crafted by Bananas & Hammocks)—to shine. A quiet island pendant by Ravenhill Studio blends into the background, letting the hood play its role as the room’s focal point. Behind it, a pantry doubles as a workhorse, lined with warm oak cabinetry and stone counters. A clever pass-through window connects directly to the exterior bar, keeping outdoor entertaining effortless.

Instead of a formal dining room, the family opted for a casual dining space anchored by a statement chandelier, paired with a cozy breakfast nook layered in cushions. Just beyond, sliding glass doors open to an outdoor kitchen, bar, and multiple lounge areas designed for hosting year-round.

Spaces for Gathering

The great room strikes a refined-yet-relaxed balance with upholstered seating arranged for conversation. A built-in bar clad in Taj Mahal quartzite hides in plain sight, its wine storage tucked neatly behind paneled doors. A moody media room takes a different approach—acoustic wall coverings, blackout drapes, and a projector transform it into an immersive cocoon for movie nights.

Private Retreats

The primary bedroom layers moody walls with an oversized Palecek woven pendant, while its ensuite bath feels like a spa. An arched alcove frames the soaking tub, opposite dramatic arched brass shower doors (also by Bananas & Hammocks). Minimal vanities keep the focus on those architectural gestures.

For the children, Ashley designed bedrooms that feel both personal and connected. Custom paneling—recreated from a vintage piece she discovered at an estate sale—anchors the girl’s room, paired with tongue-and-groove ceilings and soft finishes. In her ensuite, a whimsical hand-painted Tabarka tile softens soaring ceilings.

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