Rachel Ashwell

I first heard the word shabby chic in the 1990's from my sister, Lulu, as she told me of a new designer, Rachel Ashwell. But it was spoken from a business point of view- that she started her business simply by making white slip covers to accommodate constant use {you-can-always-throw-it-in-the-washer philosophy}.

I thought that was a great idea, {but never business minded}, I looked into her design, and did I love it! The dominance of white reflecting calmness and freshness, the beauty of vintage furniture and accessories, the delightful pastel colors{which revived my love for the color pink} and pretty floral prints, the uncluttered collection of well-chosen and meaningful things, and the pursuit of comfort- all so inspired me to the sky.

Through the years, I have collected five books by Rachel Ashwell. I love, not only her design and design philosophy, but also her transparency as she bares her heart into everything she does- what could be more inspiring than that!

"My biggest source of inspiration was my mum, who used to collect, restore, and sell antique dolls." - Shabby Chic Interiors by Rachel Ashwell

"Sometimes the ideas born from inspiration find their way effortlessly into my design, my values, and how I live my life."- Rachel Ashwell

Here are photos of her lovely new home on the Malibu coast she affectionately calls her "Shabby Shack" as a symbol of her refocused life and work after many challenges in the past years.  {Source: LA Times.com}