We love the quirky layered & elevated vibe that Shannon McLaren has cultivated over the years, taking risks and reaping the rewards. It was a delight to learn she took the leap in creating a beautiful retail shop, opening the doors to inspire at every level.
Because we are forever curious, we took a dive-below-the-surface with our ode-to-Proust questionnaire—allowing everyone to take in the magic that inhabits the locally loved founder of Prairie Interiors.
Where are you from? How would you describe your upbringing?
I’m from California, and I grew up with the surf skate aesthetic taking up 90s culture. My upbringing was creative but grounded, Fashion and style obsessed. There was always music on, books stacked everywhere, and a healthy appreciation for objects that had a story. We also traveled often to visit relatives in the UK so the mix of both aesthetics has been a lifelong influence.
Is there a moment in your youth that, looking back, inspired you to become immersed in Interior Design?
I used to rearrange my bedroom constantly. Like, monthly. I’d “shop” other rooms in the house and restyle shelves when no one was looking. At the time it just felt like play. I think the energy furniture and objects take on in a room is completely therapeutic. That’s still the magic for me.
What characteristics or personality traits best describe you?
Curious. Detail-oriented. A little obsessive about textiles. I’m intuitive, but I also love a good spreadsheet. I care deeply about how things feel, not just how they photograph. I always leave space to change my mind or be impromptu.
We love that you have a new and exciting “design haven” to share your interests with a broader audience. Has this always been your dream? What in this endeavor do you most want to express?
The space is really about inviting people into our world, showing that good design doesn’t have to be intimidating. I want to express that layering is personal. That mixing eras is chic. That your home can feel collected and elevated without feeling staged. The community aspect is extremely important to me.
Why the name Prairie?
Prairie feels expansive, romantic, a little nostalgic. It suggests openness, prairie spaces. Even though we’re coastal, I’ve always loved that quiet, grounded feeling the word carries. It’s less about geography and more about mood.
Any interesting stories about opening the space?
There were a lot of late nights and “are we really doing this?” moments. The hardest part was predicting what people would buy or want. Hunting for pieces that felt soulful but fresh. We found some of our favorite European antiques in the most unexpected corners. It felt a little like building a set for a life we wanted to live in.
What is your favorite offering/object that you hope people discover?
The pieces that don’t scream for attention. A 1950s abstract painting. A handmade ceramic bowl that feels slightly imperfect. Those quiet pieces end up being the ones you keep forever.
What was the retail space in its former life? Do you feel a bit of that lingers — or inspires?
It had a totally different energy before, very utilitarian as an office. I think good design respects what was there before. We kept certain industrial architectural elements intact because they ground the space. A little history gives it edge.
If you could pull back the curtain a bit, what’s an obscure design tip that everyone can benefit from?
Lower your art. Everyone hangs it too high. And use warmer light bulbs than you think you need. Lighting is 70% of the vibe.
We understand you enjoyed another profession in a previous life —what was it?
I worked in the fashion industry as a celebrity stylist. It was a front row seat in following a creative brief, understanding references and developing an overall aesthetic influence.
What did you relish about it?
The narrative. The strategy behind why something resonates. It taught me that every visual choice is communication.
How does it inform your day to day now that your focus is Interior Design?
Interiors tell a story too. I approach homes almost like brand worlds, what’s the tone, what’s the rhythm, what’s the through-line? It’s all connected and dictated by the architecture and who will be living there.
When it comes to your home, what is your most treasured possession?
When I got my first apartment my mom gave me a limited edition Alex Katz “Green Cap” framed print that has been to every home I’ve lived in- LA, london, Newport etc.. it always reminds me of where I’ve been and will always hang on a wall at home.
Do you think design & dining go hand in hand?
Completely. Some of the best rooms are designed around a table. Meals are rituals. Design should support gathering.
Are you the chef at home?
Cooking for me with three kids is mostly perfunctory now. I did enjoy it when I was young and hosted more dinner parties. We do go all out on holidays, and that’s super fun because it’s slow and special.
If so, what is your most prized ingredient?
Really good butter. Simple, but transformative.
If you could dine with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?
Maybe someone like Lee Radziwill, effortless, chic, with stories for days. I love women who curate their lives as beautifully as their homes.
What is your idea of happiness?
A clean house. A new candle lit. Slow breakfast, coffee and then a little rollerblade session by the beach.
Who are your heroes in real life?
People who build beautiful lives quietly. Creatives who take risks. And anyone who makes others feel seen, that’s a superpower.
Have you watched or read anything interesting/inspiring lately?
I’m always flipping through old design books and European shelter magazines. Arch Digest or World of Interiors from the 90s and early 2000’s that feel layered and unapologetic. Everything felt a little more realistic.
Modern. Organic. Inspirational. Social Dining.
Come on a lark with us!
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