When an interior designer is given the freedom to "go wild," it's a rare and exciting opportunity. This was the case for Ruby Shields, an Australian designer, when she embarked on a project for one of her earliest clients. The brief was simple yet liberating, and it allowed Ruby's creativity to flourish.
Nestled in the coastal haven of Mount Eliza, the home in question belonged to a young family—Clare, Mitch, and their two energetic boys. It was more than just a renovation; it was an opportunity to create a space that embodied their vibrant personalities and brought joy to their everyday lives.
Ruby, a self-proclaimed storyteller, approached the project with a unique methodology. She sought to find the "thread"—the one idea or trait that would tie the entire design together. In this case, the thread was joy, and it became the driving force behind every design decision.
"Joy Haus," as Ruby named the project, was not just about evoking an emotion; it was a design philosophy. Every detail, from color pairings to unexpected materials, was chosen with the intention of creating delight and bringing a smile to the family's faces. Ruby's checklist was simple yet powerful, and it guided her through the creative process.
One of the most striking aspects of Joy Haus is its color palette. Ruby carefully selected over 15 hues, each responding to the light, orientation, and purpose of its space. Powder blue represented the sky and Clare's big dreams, while burgundy grounded the design, reflecting Mitch's energy. It was a thoughtful and personalized approach, moving away from typical trends and favorite colors.
The journey through Joy Haus is cinematic, with bold and playful spaces seamlessly transitioning into more neutral and calming areas. Color became the organizing principle, guiding visitors through a carefully choreographed story. Despite its playful energy, every detail was considered and intentional, ensuring a cohesive and unique home experience.
The reconfigured floor plan opened up the home, blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor living. Large stacker doors allowed the communal zones at the rear of the house to flow into the sun-filled garden, creating a visually connected space for the family. As Ruby puts it, "For a young family, this meant parents could cook, entertain, or simply enjoy a quiet coffee while remaining visually connected to the children playing outside."
Sightlines were carefully considered, with glimpses of the checked cork flooring and pockets of color framing doorways. These visual moments created a sense of discovery and unity, stitching the house together without confusion.
The furniture and objects within Joy Haus reflect a diverse range of Australian artistic voices. Ruby curated a collection that spanned aesthetics and decades, ensuring a blended style that could be passed down through generations. From vintage finds to handcrafted artisan pieces, every item tells a story and contributes to the overall narrative of the home.
Functionality was not forgotten in the pursuit of beauty. Integrated storage, hard-wearing finishes, and thoughtful details ensure the home can withstand the demands of a busy family. As Ruby believes, "Function and beauty are never opposing ideas." The materials and finishes were chosen to enhance family life, becoming more beautiful with each passing day.
In its final form, Joy Haus is a testament to Ruby's love of design and the transformative power of color. But it's more than that—it's a deeply personal space, where every element tells a story unique to this family. It's a home that embodies the essence of joy and creates an unforgettable experience.
Personally, I find it fascinating how Ruby's approach to design goes beyond aesthetics. By infusing joy into every aspect of the home, she has created a living, breathing space that reflects the family's personalities and brings a sense of happiness to their daily lives. It's a reminder that design can be so much more than just visual appeal; it can evoke emotions and create lasting memories.
