Rachel Ashwell's Beach House
Crisp and White
Shabby Chic founder Rachel Ashwell recently moved from a house over 4000 square feet into a 1700 sq. ft. beach house that helped her realize she wasn't a big house person.
"Less is so much more. In the case of this room, the sofa, a couple of chairs...no clutter," says Rachel. "I really find it easy to decorate with pastels starting with a platform of white on the walls, the sofa, whatever, and then layering in your color."
Punch of Color
Just as pastel pillows add a punch of color on Rachel's all white furniture, fresh flowers brighten her beach house.
Kitchen
When Rachel moved into this new house, she told herself she'd only make room for the items she used everyday. These open shelves, kitschy plates, good china and her favorite teapot are easily accessible and lighten the room. Rachel also painted the walls and ceiling in a glossy white paint and covered the floors in white limestone.
Extra Seating
Since most people tend to congregate in the kitchen, Rachel is a fan of adding extra seating, like this couch, to any unused space, in any room.
Daughter's Bedroom
Her daughter's bedroom is actually the smallest room in the house. Rachel says it's forced her to make very deliberate choices about what goes into the room.
Master Bedroom
Rachel brought the beach inside and decorated her room in blues and dusty pinks. She loves mirrored things like this dresser, and she softens the look by adding a flower-upholstered chair. She doesn't have a lot of closet space to spare so her summer clothes proudly hang on a clothes rack for all to see.
Feminine Touches
Rachel created her own vanity in her bathroom by adding a hidden stool under the sink. She also displays Shabby Chic items she created exclusively for Target.
Rachel says there are few things no home should be without: "Candles not too far burnt down, yummy flower arrangements, a chandelier, and lovely china."
Published 01/01/2006
