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}

Week-End Inspirations

.....and pretty

"Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if something is excellent or praiseworthy, think about these things."

Philippians 4:8

The Desk and The Chair {Endless Inspiration}

Yes, endless ways one can decorate and style the work {office} space. My style leans towards vintage/cottage style but I'd like to share the modern/mod and even an ethnic-inspired space.

Love this idea of a large chalkboard on the wall where you can draw and write messages
to your heart's content

Another great idea is this shelf to display collectibles and favorite things

Ethnic-inspired decor...love love love this chair

Glamour and sophistication

The Desk and The Chair

I think this is a very odd title for this post but it is what I call it- the desk and the chair. For anyone else it would be the home office or writing {computer} desk or a work space. It is a must for me to have. It is where I work on my computer, write notes, and every so often, glance at the picture of my kids taken when they were younger.  And everywhere we've lived, from apartments to our condominium, and now in my house, I've always had this tiny space for my desk and chair.

All creative bloggers would know what I mean when I say I have a "thing" for these two simple pieces of furniture. I remember as a little girl how I would play secretary in an imaginary office instead of play house. I even pretended to ride the bus going to work. Sure enough, as an adult, I have always enjoyed my job as an Admin. Assistant in the healthcare field.

The amazing thing is that there are endless choices of style and decor you could do in that one small space. Here are some of my favorites.....

{A vintage birdcage used as a shelf to display pretty things- fabulous idea}

{via http://www.idainteriorlifestyle.com}

{my dream space}