“It’s a different way of engaging with design. One that feels far more emotional, accessible and, dare I say it… a little Milan arriving in Melbourne.”
That comparison feels earned rather than aspirational. International festivals have long treated immersive interiors as cultural experiences in their own right, and Synthesis suggests Australia is finding its own version—one grounded in collaboration, craftsmanship and the way we actually live. Rather than asking whether a room feels fashionable, Synthesis posed a better question: how does it make you feel? On the evidence of this room, the answer is: reluctant to leave.
Scope - Exhibition for Melbourne Design Week
Completion - May 2026
Interior Design & Decoration - Studio Shields
Photography - Martina Gemmola
Stylist - Ruby Shields
Exhibition included; Amy Vidler, Anne U, Angela Hayes, Astrid Salomon, Bel Williams, Bolaji Teniola, Cameron Green, Carl Broesen Studio, Craig Shanahan / Mood Workshop, Curtis Bloxsidge & 2am Close, Culture Cush, Dean Norton, Em Frank, Femme Brutale, Fools Glass, Georgia Harvey, Hannah Nowlan, Indigo Tolhurst, Jenny Jones, Jordan Fleming, Kelly Brown, KOEH Studio, Locki Humphrey, Marlo Lyda, Martyn Thompson, Max Copolov, Melvin Josy, Nicole Lawrence, Objects for Thought, Patrick Scott, Patrick Shields, Renée Estée, Ro Noonan, Saturday Yard Work, Studio Dokola, Studio Kaytar, Studio Tops, Subject Matters, Sundance Studio, Tantri Mustika, Thannie Phan, Theodosius Ng, Thomas Maxam, Zoe Diacolabianos.
Curated by Ruby Shields
Studio Shields Proves the Most Memorable Interiors Are Layered by Many Hands.
— Yellowtrace
