An exclusive look into Meadow Manor …
Designer Rachel Ashwell has spent over 30 years building a design philosophy that celebrates imperfection and authenticity. As the creator of the shabby chic aesthetic – which has spawned subcultures such as #cottagecore and #coastalgrandmother – her approach centres on thrifted finds, floral patterns, lived-in comfort and creating homes that tell stories rather than follow trends. Rachel’s house, Meadow Manor in Somerset in the UK is the epitome of this trend and the subject of her latest book. She relocated to the UK after 40 years living in California and Texas, drawn to a slower, gentler life in the countryside.
Rachel’s intentions were to decorate her home sympathetically, aligned to the historical values and authentic details of the 17th-century farmhouse, and treat its old bones with respect. She uses the home as both a sanctuary and studio, hosting photoshoots and gatherings that inspire her collections (her latest collaboration with Next offers an accessible price point for a range of furniture, lighting, bedlinen and rugs which can be mixed and matched). The farmhouse also includes a beautiful garden, a cluster of barns, and a guest cottage for family and friends to immerse themselves into her whimsical world and her belief that real luxury is emotional, not material.
“Much of Meadow Manor is furnished with flea-market finds gathered patiently from my travels in both the US and the UK. I have been going to flea markets my whole life. I was first introduced to the experience by my parents as a young girl, as searching for treasures was at the core of both their businesses: my dad looking for first-edition books, my mum for vintage dolls and bits of silk, ribbons and lace to make and restore their dresses. I didn’t realise it at the time, but following her around and observing how she layered priceless silks with slightly tattered ribbons and laces gave me my first lessons in shabby and chic.”
“I love everything about flea markets: the excitement of the unknown waiting to be discovered and the exchange of stories shared as each purchase is considered. There is so much satisfaction in finding soulful, one-of-a-kind pieces that display the workmanship of days gone by. Vintage items have their own beauty, offering patinas and finishes that have taken years in the making. The imperfections, sometimes minor and hidden, are evidence of a life lived and loved.”
“I am always searching for textiles, often finding once brightly coloured florals that have been bleached by the sun and faded to a smokier palette over time. I appreciate every treasure I choose to buy. Sometimes they are my forever-to keep, sometimes for a gift, sometimes they are inspiration for my design work or part of the thread of a tapestry in my storytelling. For me, the discovering and acquiring is often enough, and without attachment it is joyful for me to pass on.”
“When decorating with vintage, I am always mindful to leave space for each piece to have room to be celebrated and seen. I believe the area around it should be clean and uncluttered, but not sterile, to better embrace the warmth of these treasures.
It takes vision to imagine a found object in the right context and placement, where its unique qualities and captivating presence reveal its priceless value. As the saying goes, one man’s junk is another man’s treasure. When a piece becomes your discovered treasure, there is a special moment within of poetry and grace.” @rachelashwell
Meadow Manor by Rachel Ashwell, CICO Books, €40.
