Flower Power: Elevated, Textured Design in Floral Forward Editorial at the Van Dusen Mansion
Asters and architecture become the muse for an elevated design at the Van Dusen Mansion
November 4, 2025
“I couldn’t stop thinking about the juxtaposition of small, seasonal textured aster alongside the traditional stone of the Van Dusen Mansion,” says Ashley Fox of Ashley Fox Designs. “My favorite thing is to design to the architecture of a space.” Utilizing locally grown florals, Fox created a delicate, bloom-filled setting at the historic estate that is rich in texture and movement. The mansion’s arched entryway is draped in blooming aster accented with white limonium, creating an elegant focal point. Pairing the perfect bridal gown is a must, thus a column-shaped dress featuring sculptured three-dimensional florals adds a romantic yet trend-forward touch. “The flowers brought so much texture, I needed a dress that would not fade into the background … and keep things feeling modern rather than fairytale,” says Fox.
The interplay of fine textures from the flowers with the clean edges of the mansion’s architecture made for a striking silhouette.
—Ashley Fox, Ashley Fox Designs
The reception table is lush, textured and overflowing with asters, white zinnia and feverfew flowers and adorned with a balance of modern and classic elements. “I wanted to create a floral runner that had organic edges— but not too tall for conversation,” Fox notes. “I love when practical design is considered in a new look—that becomes the sweet spot for successful tables in my book.” Anchored with a green linen layered with a warm-toned antique lace tablecloth, the tabletop features gold-rimmed glassware and lace-edge plates. The design relies on a few select floral varieties resulting in an abundantly lush look, from the bouquet to the tabletop runner. “When you can accomplish a look with fewer varieties the experience is elevated,” Fox says. “Select flowers en masse creates an environment to savor.”
