Meet Ashleigh Cochran | Interior Designer | 3D Rendering & Drafting

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashleigh Cochran and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashleigh, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit, but after COVID, I started seeing the industry—and my place in it—differently. I had a few experiences at design firms that made me realize I didn’t want to be part of the interior design industry in the traditional sense. I loved helping people, but I didn’t want to run my own firm.

What I did love was rendering and drafting. It started with one contract for a designer, then another, and before I knew it, my work kept growing organically. Designers kept coming back, referring others, and suddenly, I realized—I was in business. That’s when I leaned in, structured my services, and built a business doing what I truly love, supporting designers with 3D renderings and drafting.

What should our readers know about your business?
I made it here through a lot of trial and error—so many modifications along the way and countless lessons learned. My business is constantly evolving as I work to create a better experience for the interior designers I support.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that saying ‘yes’ isn’t always the best answer. To grow a business you’re truly excited about, you have to hone in on your specialty and stick to it. The whole reason for starting your own business is to do what you love on your own terms.

I also realized that sometimes the career path you start on isn’t what you expected—and that’s okay. When that happens, you either adapt within the industry or carve your own path. That’s exactly what I did, and I’ve found that hard work and persistence usually pay off.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’ve only been in the Denver area for two years, so I’m still exploring! But whenever a friend visits, I have a few must-see spots.

We’d start with a visit to the Denver Art Museum, where the mix of contemporary and classic exhibits is always inspiring followed by lunch at Leven Deli. Then, we’d spend some time at the Denver Botanic Gardens, a perfect spot to unwind and take in the beauty of the area. For food, I’d definitely take them to Linger, one of my favorite restaurants with incredible flavors and a great atmosphere.

Since I first lived in Boulder, I’d make sure to show them Pearl Street, where we could explore the local shops, grab a coffee, and enjoy the street performers. A hike in the Flatirons would be a must—it’s the best way to soak in Colorado’s stunning landscapes. And if we’re up for an adventure, we might take a scenic drive to Breckenridge for a day trip, whether for skiing in the winter or just strolling through the charming mountain town.

There’s still so much I want to explore, but these are the places I always love sharing with visitors!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d love to give recognition to my first amazing boss and mentor, Colleen, the founder and owner of RedBird Redesign. She introduced me to a whole new way of thinking about the design industry, and her guidance shaped so much of my approach to design and business.

I also want to thank my first clients, Alexis and Taylor of Alexis Taylor Interiors. I had no idea that one contract with them would lead to so many more. Their support and encouragement gave me the confidence to take my skills and turn them into a business. I’m incredibly grateful for the role they played in my journey.

Website: https://www.oarhausinteriors.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oarhaus/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oarhausbyashleigh/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@oarhausbyashleigh