Ruby Shields, an Australian interior designer, embarked on a creative journey when she was tasked with designing a home for a family with a simple brief: to "go wild". This project, named Joy Haus, became a testament to her unique approach to design, where every detail was meticulously crafted to evoke a specific emotion and tell a story. The result is a home that is not just aesthetically pleasing but also deeply personal and functional, reflecting the family's personalities and lifestyle.
Shields' process began with finding the "thread" that would tie the entire design together. In this case, it was the name "Joy Haus" itself that became the guiding principle. Joy was not just an emotion but a design methodology, influencing every decision from color choices to material selection. The palette evolved into over 15 carefully curated hues, each with a specific purpose. For instance, powder blue represented the sky and Clare's aspirations, while burgundy embodied the earth and Mitch's grounding presence.
The design journey was cinematic, with each room unfolding in a playful yet considered manner. The exterior, in particular, stands out with its bold blue and burgundy façade, setting the tone for the entire home. However, the true magic lies in the subtle transitions and visual moments that stitch the house together. Every view and vignette is intentional, creating a sense of discovery without feeling confusing or disjointed.
One of the key aspects of Joy Haus is its reconfigured floor plan, which places the communal zones at the rear, blurring the boundaries between inside and outdoors. Large stacker doors allow the kitchen, dining, and living areas to spill into the sun-filled garden, providing a visually connected space for the family. This design choice not only enhances the flow but also ensures that the parents can remain engaged with the children while performing daily activities.
The furniture and objects in each room are carefully selected to represent a collection of Australia's artistic voices, spanning different aesthetics and decades. This blended style not only adds character but also ensures that the pieces can be passed down through generations. For instance, Clare's vintage burl bedside tables were elevated with new hardware and paired with a custom upholstered bedhead, creating a unique and timeless look.
Functionality is not compromised in the pursuit of beauty. The home is equipped with plenty of integrated storage, hard-wearing finishes, and durable materials that can withstand the demands of family life. As Shields notes, "function and beauty are never opposing ideas. The best materials don't simply survive family life; they become more beautiful because of it."
In the end, Joy Haus is more than just a home; it's an ode to Shields' love of design and the power of color. It's a space where every material, every hue, and every detail contributes to a story that is deeply personal and unique. This project not only showcases her creative prowess but also her ability to transform a simple brief into a captivating and meaningful living space.
