Catching Up With the Queen of Shabby Chic
http://www.decor-ideas.org 08/11/2014 23:15 Decor Ideas
What started more than two decades ago with a small store selling slipcovered furniture and flea market finds in Santa Monica, California, has blossomed into the enormously popular Shabby Chic style and brand. We caught up with founder Rachel Ashwell to hear how her style has evolved over the past 25 years, and get a peek at her newest venture, a bed-and-breakfast called The Prairie.
Shabby Chic style is, at heart, an irresistible combination of rustic and refined, comfort and polish. Think cashmere sweaters with blue jeans and cowboy boots, or machine-washable slipcovers and crystal chandeliers. Flea market furniture with peeling white paint, ruffles and floral prints have been defining details since the look caught on.
Photos by Amy Neunsinger
Welcome to The Prairie. The Prairie, Ashwell’s bed-and-breakfast in Round Top, Texas, is a haven of Shabby Chic style that sits on 46 acres; it has five cottages and a barn that serves as a communal lounge.
Longtime Ashwell fans will recognize many of the same comfy-cozy elements that have defined Shabby Chic from the beginning, but may be pleasantly surprised by the richness and sophistication of the interiors that Ashwell is creating today.
Fresh flowers in jam jars, home-cooked breakfasts and washing hung to dry outdoors speak of a romantic bygone age, but with those subtly luxurious touches (fabulous sheets, gilt mirrors) that are Ashwell’s signature.
The furniture and accessories are a mix of Shabby Chic Couture pieces and hand-picked items from Ashwell’s frequent antiquing trips. In other words, The Prairie is Ashwell’s decorating playground, where she is free to experiment with new decorating ideas.
Each cottage has its own personality, from bohemian rustic to Victorian, but always with a bit of magic that makes it pure Shabby Chic. Weddings and events have a dedicated space in the Pearl Barn.
Q. What do you think it is about the Shabby Chic aesthetic or philosophy that is especially appealing to people now?
A. Its timelessness! As I have never been one to follow trends and always aim to remain integral to my vision, responding to what I love is what I endeavor to create. Perhaps this is something that also resonates with my clients. Today Shabby Chic, in my mind, is about a lifestyle choice — surrounding oneself with considered, but above all comfortable, elements not only for the home but for one’s well being. My watchwords of creating with beauty, comfort and function are easily attainable on any budget, which has a timeless appeal.
Q. Shabby Chic style always seems to have been rooted in your personal aesthetic. Can you share how your own style has evolved over the years?
A. The evolutionary process is organic; I absorb and am influenced by life around me, my children, fashion, movies, art, music, people, travel. The Shabby Chic soul lives on after 25 years, along with a few frills, and there will always be a moment of pink. But the design is continuously considered around modern-day lifestyles whilst not compromising on what I believe are the timeless requirements of living with beautiful, comfortable and functional pieces.
Q. The Prairie, your Texas B&B, is located near Round Top, one of the most well-loved antiques fairs in the country — obviously that was no accident. What is it about vintage and antiques hunting that is so inspiring to you?
A. The continued journey and opportunity to find unique pieces created by artisans, either for decoration or simple functionality, always fills me with excitement for each trip.
Q. What do you envision for Shabby Chic in the coming months and years?
A. Personally I am working on simplifying. Making sure that the ‘noise’ doesn’t take over the magic. This year we celebrate 25 years, and I want to focus on staying on track towards new dreams.
Rachel Ashwell relaxes on the porch.
Tell us: Are you a Shabby Chic fan? Share what draws you to the style in the Comments.
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