After 23 years in Los Angeles, Erin Ellwood had had enough and was burned out in the city that was hectic from existence. She and her daughter had been attracted to the slower pace of Ojai, California, nestled in the hills east of Ventura and Santa Barbara. “We are equally happy that we’re able to really see the stars at night,” she says.
After going to Ojai, Ellwood realized she really enjoyed helping buddies design their houses and began her own design business. Ellwood’s own house, a rental, shows off her knack for layout, with its eclectic mix of contemporary and classic furniture, bold colors and one-of-a-kind artwork.
at a Glance
Who lives here: Erin Ellwood, daughter Amelie and their two greyhounds
Location: Ojai, California
Size: 1,200 square feet; 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, office
That is intriguing: Ellwood’s dad, Craig Ellwood, has been a famed California architect. Both her parents understood Charles and Ray Eames.
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The quaint home is tucked away beneath trees and combines. “Nature is my favourite designer. It is never contrived,” Ellwood says.
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The electrical cobalt-blue paint used on an exterior gate and the Adirondack chairs give a preview of what is inside.
Paint: Scandinavian Blue, Benjamin Moore
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Ellwood made this exterior light fixture from empty wine bottles, including handmade personality to the backyard. An range of potted plants decorates the backyard seating place, where Amelie and her friends like to play.
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An Ikea swing hangs from from the ceiling in the living space, offering a lively choice to seating. It’s a definite favourite among her buddies and Amelie.
Having a busy daughter and two quite big puppies, Ellwood chose furnishings that were both functional and practical. A grey CB2 sofa and fluffy flokati rug from Overstock finish the living room space.
Throw pillows: Ikea
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Designing round the 1950s redwood-panelled walls and also the lack of pure lighting presented some problems. “I typically like bright, open spaces and white walls,” Ellwood says. Since she rents the home, she could not remove the panels, so instead she gave them new life with her brilliant art collection. “As soon as I got my artwork up on these dark wood walls, it felt as though it was mine,” she says.
The classic Eames lounge and ottoman have been in Ellwood’s family for several years.
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“I always occupy a distance; I don’t just proceed,” Ellwood says. She feels it’s essential for spaces to look as though they came together organically, and did not desire her house to look overdone. “If you like it, buy it. Everything goes with everything provided that it’s made your heart leap once you first saw it,” she says.
Chair: classic
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Ellwood’s individual style and inspiration stems from many different sources within her daily life. “Everything that enters my private sphere inspires me,” she says. “Nature, music, artwork, films, food, people, weather, even politics.”
Dining table and chairs: Modernica
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Ellwood could not make any alterations to her leasing kitchen. She preferred for covering the refrigerator with chalkboard paint, which is perfect for jotting down quotes and reminders.
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Ellwood’s favourite spot in the house is her home office. “I live there,” she says. “It’s comfy, and there’s a bird feeder outside the window I love to watch. It’s a beautiful spot.”
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“Color finds you. You don’t find it,” says Ellwood. “It depends on what you want to feel, what happens in the room, the structure. Shade is key; it’s everything. Beige isn’t a colour to me”
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Amelie’s room blossoms with colour and personality, with bright floral beddingand a lively art print over the bed.
What is Ellwood’s next big project for her property? Owning it!
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