Giving Back
Building homes is what we do. Building community is who we are.
We've never been the kind of company that gives back for the publicity. For most of our 25 years, we just did it quietly — donating materials, volunteering time, showing up where we were needed. It's only recently that friends and partners convinced us to share these stories. Not to pat ourselves on the back, but because people want to know who they're working with. And this is who we are.
Supporting Our Veterans
Through our partnership with the Gary Sinise Foundation and Wounded Warriors Project, we've had the honor of donating flooring and performing service work for disabled veterans right here in the St. Louis area.
This work began under Rich Olsen, who built a legacy of veteran support during his 36 years running Just Around the Corner Flooring. When Simon acquired the company, continuing that legacy wasn't even a question — it was a promise.
At a recent National Wood Floor Association convention, Gary Sinise personally recognized our St. Louis team in front of 1,500 people. It was a proud moment, but the real reward is knowing a veteran's home is a little more comfortable because of work we did together.
Local Fire & Emergency Services
When our local fire station in Shrewsbury needed tile work but didn't have it in their budget, we had the materials sitting in our warehouse. So we donated everything — tile, labor, the works. No fanfare needed.
The firefighters surprised us with an honorary brotherhood coin from the Fraternal Order of Firemen. We didn't expect it, but we're proud to have it.
Families in Need
Some of the most meaningful work we do never shows up in a portfolio.
We partner with charitable organizations that support homeless women, pregnant mothers, and families in crisis. We donate furniture — often from high-end clients who are remodeling and want their old pieces to go to good use — along with appliances, essentials, and whatever else is needed to keep a household running.
A washing machine that costs a few hundred dollars can be devastating for a single mom who can't afford to replace it. We make sure that doesn't happen when we can help.
We also support the Archway program, which helps individuals re-entering society after incarceration. Their success rates speak for themselves, and we're proud to contribute materials and support to help people rebuild their lives.
Holiday Service
Every year, Simon and his wife, along with Rich and his wife, personally cook and host holiday meals for residents of special needs and low-income care facilities — people who often have no family to visit them during the holidays.
We buy all the food, set up everything, cook for over 100 people, and serve every plate ourselves. No sponsorship, no cameras. Just showing up for people who deserve to know someone cares.
Mission Work
Our team is actively involved in missionary work and faith-based service, extending our commitment to community beyond the St. Louis area.
In the Press
Simon Ashley Design Studio is regularly featured in Kirkwood Lifestyle Magazine, where editor Renee has documented our projects and community involvement over the years.
Want to Know More About Who We Are?
We'd love to tell you our story — and hear yours.