If you love shabby chic cottage style decorating, you are probably familiar with shabby chic creator Rachel Ashwell.
I can't say that I'm a lace and ruffle kind of person, but I do appreciate all styles and here is what I take away from Rachel Ashwell's design ideas. For a starter, Rachel is not a big house person she told Oprah in an interview. Here she is in her 1700 sq. ft. Malibu beach cottage.
In her shabby chic beach cottage it all boils down to beauty, comfort and function. Less is more. No clutter, only making room for items she uses daily.
Rachel has always been known for white, which is a no brainer, she says, using it as a starting platform. Everything is a little sandy and moist but the view forgives any imperfections. Picture via LA Times.
I love Rachel's idea of creating snoozing places. A daybed in a corner somewhere, to rest, when going to bed isn't called for.
Then shabby chic cottage style most certainly includes mushy sofas with slip covers. Easy, breezy. And another design element that I love are vintage finds with patina. Think "windswept" by sea breezes as in Nantucket Decor Cottage Style. Rachel says, she's been driving the highways from antique malls to antique stores for years, looking for one of a kind vintage treasures of tables, cabinets, mirrors and art.
And lastly. Taking inside furniture outside when weather permits. "I am always making the inside, outside wherever possible." Rachel says. "Nothing compares to the natural fragrances and freshness of the outside."
