The Shutters lobby is dimly lit and the fireplaces roaring, with low-key house music from DJ Harmony drifting through the air on a Wednesday Boîte Night. Guests are gathered around tables sipping on handcrafted cocktails by mixologist Josh Curtis, while chatting about their eventful day in Santa Monica.
We are doing the same, except we’re discussing our favorite patterns from textile designer John Robshaw—who joins us dressed as impeccably as the furniture draped in his fabrics at Shutters on the Beach and Hotel Casa del Mar.
His passion for patterns and fabrics become even more evident once we begin speaking with him.
What is it that drew you to patterns and textiles? Was there a specific moment when you knew it was what you wanted to do full time?
JR: I studied painting and one day stumbled onto a load of deep, deep indigo denim. I tried painting on it and it didn’t work so I tried painting with bleach. I discovered that I was more interested in the actual textile, how it was woven, and what happens down at the thread level instead of always being on the surface.
I knew I wanted to make things when I went to art school it just took some time to sort out what to make.
What is your favorite piece you ever created?
JR: I made my first block prints in a small village outside of Ahmedabad under an old awning in the 100-degree weather printing non-stop. I knew I had found something to keep me busy.
What is your process when creating/conceptualizing a new design?
JR: Designs come at me from all directions. I might find an antique textile at a local market in India with a certain color I am looking for, or a line quality that we can mimic. Then off we go drawing a new print in a different style. Concepts can come from places, light, travel etc. I am very open to the universe.
You have traveled all over the world, where would you say you’ve visited that has given you the most inspiration for your work?
JR: I just came back from Japan, where I found some amazing trade textiles used in the tea ceremony. They are old Indian textiles I had never seen before, so at this moment I am all over Japan. It usually shifts each season as I am always on the hunt for new lands with interesting textile traditions.
Guests can find your textiles throughout Shutters, what was your inspiration when choosing textiles and hues for the rooms?
JR: I had started working with Michael Smith, and he had bought some of these blankets for one of his projects. I think they had that sunny California vibe that works so well in Shutters. It was fun to stay at the hotel recently and sleep under my own bedding!
What was the most unique piece on your travels that made a lasting impression?
JR: I went to Uzbekistan ages ago and bought some amazing suzanis, which I still have hanging in my house in the country. I visited the weavers in a small village and had a wonderful lunch with them.
What about coastal design inspires you?
JR: I am a big diver, so I am always looking for new oceans to explore. I think homes/hotels around oceans always have a great casual vibe that works perfectly with my Indian textiles.
