Ruby Shields, an Australian interior designer, embarked on a creative journey when she was tasked with designing a home for a family in Mount Eliza. The brief was simple: "Go wild." But for Shields, this was an opportunity to create something truly special, a home that would reflect the family's personalities and their love for joy and happiness. The result is Joy Haus, a stunning residence that showcases the power of color and thoughtful design.
Shields, a self-proclaimed storyteller, began her process by seeking the "thread" that would tie the entire project together. In this case, the thread was the name "Joy Haus" itself, which became the guiding principle for the entire design. Joy, according to Shields, was not just an emotion but a methodology, influencing every decision made during the project. From the very beginning, she wanted to create a home that would evoke joy and delight, and this mindset permeated every aspect of the design.
The color palette of Joy Haus is a masterpiece in itself, with over 15 carefully curated hues. Shields describes the process as treating color like architecture, where each shade responds to the light, orientation, and purpose of its space, while also considering the surrounding areas. The palette evolved from the family's personalities, with powder blue representing Clare's big dreams and burgundy embodying Mitch's grounding energy. This wasn't a random selection of colors; it was a deliberate and thoughtful approach to creating a cohesive and emotionally charged environment.
The home's layout is a testament to Shields' attention to detail and her understanding of the family's needs. The communal areas are placed at the rear, allowing for a seamless flow between the inside and the outdoors. Large stacker doors dissolve boundaries, enabling the kitchen, dining, and living spaces to spill into the sun-filled garden. This design choice not only enhances the connection between the family and nature but also provides a sense of visual continuity, as if the house is a single, cohesive entity.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Joy Haus is the way color and materials are used to delineate rooms while maintaining a sense of unity. Subtle transitions, such as the checked cork flooring that leaks from one room to another, create a sense of discovery without feeling confusing. Shields emphasizes the importance of listening to the house, the client, and the light, ensuring that every view and vignette is intentional and contributes to the overall narrative.
The furniture and objects within the home are a celebration of Australia's artistic voices, spanning different aesthetics and decades. Shields believes in the power of layering emerging designers, vintage finds, and iconic pieces to create a unique and deeply personal space. For example, Clare's vintage burl bedside tables were elevated with new hardware and paired with a custom upholstered bedhead, showcasing the beauty of blending old and new.
Despite its playful energy, Joy Haus is not just a pretty space; it is a functional home that stands up to the demands of family life. Integrated storage, hard-wearing finishes, and durable materials ensure that the house can withstand the wear and tear of daily life. Shields believes that function and beauty are not opposing ideas but rather complementary forces, where the best materials become more beautiful with use.
In the end, Joy Haus is more than just a home; it is a testament to Shields' love of design and her ability to create spaces that feel deeply personal. Every material, every hue, and every detail contributes to a story that is uniquely their own. This is the essence of Joy Haus, a home that celebrates joy, family, and the power of thoughtful design.
