Ashwell, Rachel: Meadow Manor

Meadow Manor is a beautiful and evocative book on Rachel Ashwell’s new English country home in Somerset, for fans of Shabby Chic and those who yearn to live the country dream. As custodian of this lovely 17th-century farmhouse, Rachel was keen to decorate with a light touch and treat the venerable old bones of Meadow Manor with respect. Unexpectedly, much of her furniture transitioned easily from California to its new home in rural Somerset—much-loved pieces almost seemed to find their own places, as if by magic. The book explores every room of the house, beginning with the large country kitchen, the sitting rooms, and Rachel’s sacred space, the studio. Then there are five bedrooms, plus the main bedroom (with its own dressing room and bathroom), a laundry room, and up in the rafters, “the chapel,” home to her treasured collection of linens and textiles. All have been sensitively renovated, with many a story behind the decorative decision-making process. Rachel was also lucky enough to inherit a beautiful and mature garden with many established plants, and several barns, one of which is now a home from home for visiting family and friends. Meadow Manor is a true labour of love, which will provide ample inspiration for readers who dream of creating their own English country retreat.