Talk Shop: Ann Yancy // Ro Sham Beaux
About Ann
When Ann Yancy founded Ro Sham Beaux, she set out to create the lighting she couldn't find anywhere else—pieces that feel artful, effortless, and full of personality. Drawing on a childhood spent in a family of designers and manufacturers, Ann has built a collection known for its handcrafted details, natural materials, and relaxed sophistication. Whether designing statement chandeliers or sculptural sconces, she believes the best interiors are deeply personal and rooted in the things you truly love.
After launching Ro Sham Beaux at NY Now in 2010, the brand quickly found an audience among designers seeking distinctive, handcrafted lighting. Today, Ann continues to evolve the collection while staying true to the creative process she loves most: making with her own hands. We hope you enjoy Ann's Talk Shop interview!
Image Courtesy of Carmel Brantley & interiors by Lewis Design Group
Describe your style in three words or less:
Simple and fun.
What have been the three biggest influences on your aesthetic in your life:
Time spent living in Paris, any beach, and the growth that comes with moving to a new city.
How did you start your company, and/or what is your favorite thing about what you do:
Image Courtesy of Ro Sham Beaux
I grew up in a manufacturing family, so I knew I wanted to start my own business and be a designer of some sort. I thought I wanted to be a sculptor, then a jewelry designer, and eventually, I turned to lighting.
Back then, I was doing mostly custom work directly with architects and designers but became inspired to create the types of pieces I was craving and couldn't find in the marketplace. I launched Ro Sham Beaux in 2010 in a booth at NY Now with great success, and I've never looked back. Despite the many evolutions of my career, whenever I can work with my hands is still my favorite part of my job.
Do you have a mentor in your career, and if so, how have they helped to shape your trajectory:
My parents have been my greatest mentors. They were designers and makers throughout my childhood, and I grew up believing that anything is possible if you love what you do and are willing to work hard.
What does your home say about you:
My home is simple and old-school, filled with family photos and artwork.
Where do you find inspiration:
Everywhere.
Who are your style icons:
Anouska Hempel and Tom Ford.
What are your key ingredients for entertaining:
Great music and a good rosé.
Do you collect anything:
I collect fabric and trim from all over the world.
Favorite Instagram accounts to follow for inspiration (please include links):
House of Honey (@houseofhoney), Amy Pigliacampo (@amypigliacampo), and Aaron Bourne (@harolds_finishing_touches).
What are you working on right now:
I'm working on getting more sleep and three new collections: two lighting collections and one outdoor furniture collection.
Wardrobe staples:
Jeans, espadrilles, and a comfy blouse, along with a few favorite dresses.
Best interior advice you ever received:
Take things slow. Live in a space and get to know it before you make any big decisions.
Best career advice you ever received:
Focus, but don't forget to look at the big picture.
Types of home purchases you invest in, and save on:
Invest in antiques.
Your greatest extravagance:
My annual vacation with my daughters.
Favorite places to shop for home:
Besides Ro Sham Beaux? :)
Most prized possession and why:
An original Chagall lithograph.
Your interiors motto:
You gotta love it.
Your life motto:
It will all work out.
Advice for someone looking to define their own interior style:
Everyone is unique, so you have to be true to what you love.
Take Ten: My Favorite…
Food: Pasta! Indian when I can get there—or to NYC.
Drink: Water... just kidding. French 75.
Film: Camelot with Richard Harris and Vanessa Redgrave will always be my favorite. My new favorite is Saltburn.
Hotel: Hotel D'Aubusson in the 6th.
City: Charleston.
Bedding: Pom Pom at Home.
Tea or Coffee (and how do you take it): Coffee, Double Flat White (2%)
Playlist: Red Hot Chili Peppers, Edith Piaf, and Escape (If you like Piña Coladas)... I am all over the place
Weekend Activity: Gardening, Beaching
Design Book: Elements of Style: Designing a Home and a Life by Erin Gates
