Ruby Shields, an Australian interior designer, embarked on a unique design journey with her client, Clare, and her family. The project, named Joy Haus, was a testament to Ruby's storytelling approach and her ability to weave a narrative through color and design. The brief was simple: 'go wild', but Ruby's interpretation was anything but ordinary.
A Personalized Palette
Ruby's design philosophy revolves around finding the 'thread' that ties a project together. In this case, the thread was 'Joy', which became the guiding principle for the entire home. The color palette, an essential element, was carefully curated to reflect the family's personalities and emotions. From powder blue for the sky and Clare's dreams to burgundy for the earth and Mitch's grounding presence, each color was chosen to create a specific atmosphere.
The result was a carefully choreographed story, with over 15 hues carefully balanced throughout the house. Ruby describes the process as treating color like architecture, considering the light, orientation, and purpose of each space, as well as its relationship to adjacent areas. This attention to detail created a cinematic journey through the home, with bold moments seamlessly transitioning to quieter, more neutral spaces.
A Playful Yet Thoughtful Design
Joy Haus is a testament to Ruby's belief that function and beauty are not opposing forces. The design incorporates plenty of storage solutions and durable finishes, ensuring the home can withstand the family's energetic lifestyle. The reconfigured floor plan opens up the communal areas, dissolving boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces. Large stacker doors allow the kitchen, dining, and living areas to flow into the garden, providing a visually connected and functional space for the family.
Ruby emphasizes the importance of sightlines, ensuring every view and vignette is intentional. The use of materials, joinery, and subtle color transitions creates a sense of discovery without feeling confusing. Each room has its own unique energy, yet they collectively speak the same language, like chapters of the same book.
A Blend of Styles and Aesthetics
Ruby's attention to detail extends to the furniture and objects that fill the rooms. She carefully selects pieces that represent a diverse range of Australian artistic voices, spanning different aesthetics and decades. This approach ensures a blended style that can be passed down through generations. Clare's vintage burl bedside tables, for example, were enhanced with new hardware and paired with a custom upholstered bedhead, creating a unique and personal touch.
A Home with a Story
Joy Haus is more than just a beautifully designed home; it's a space that tells a story. Ruby's design philosophy revolves around creating a home that feels deeply personal, where every material, color, and detail contributes to a unique narrative. This approach ensures that the home becomes a reflection of the family's personalities and their love of design, making it a truly special and memorable space.
