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MDW | Synthesis

When

Exhibition
14 — 22 May
11am – 5pm

Opening night
Thursday 14 May
5pm – 8.30pm

Where

Bishop's Parlour

Cost

Free

Follow

Instagram

Website

designweek.melbourne/event/synthesis/

When

Exhibition
14 — 22 May
11am – 5pm

Opening night
Thursday 14 May
5pm – 8.30pm

Where

Bishop's Parlour

Cost

Free

Follow

Instagram

Website

designweek.melbourne/event/synthesis/

Through Synthesis by Studio Shields, heritage architecture becomes the framework for a contemporary interior installation, where encaustic tiles, stained glass and time-worn timber remain untouched, allowing the building’s existing character to anchor the space. Within this setting, a collective of Australian designers and artists present contemporary collectible works arranged as layered domestic vignettes rather than isolated objects.

Furniture, lighting, textiles, objects and art are positioned as they might exist in a home – in relation to one another. A custom sofa by Culture Cush, upholstered in Mokum fabric, anchors the primary living setting, while a multifunctional desk by Mood Workshop, using Elton Group veneer, grounds the foyer. A bespoke scent developed by Nunchi Oils moves subtly through the rooms, extending the exhibition beyond the visual.

Established names are presented alongside emerging designers, makers and artists, intentionally dissolving hierarchy and encouraging dialogue. Visitors are invited to sit, linger and experience the works in context – not as distant artefacts, but as pieces capable of shaping daily rituals and lived space.

Participants

Ruby Shields / Studio Shields

Ruby Shields is the founder and creative force behind Studio Shields, a Naarm/Melbourne-based interior design and decoration practice known for colour-drenched, materially rich interiors that feel ingrained rather than applied. Her work is grounded in the belief that spaces should be cultivated over time, layered through craft, collaboration and lived experience. With a background in visual storytelling and a deep respect for Australian makers, Ruby creates immersive environments defined by colour, materiality, bespoke joinery and considered curation. She approaches each project as a narrative, where colour acts as structure, material holds memory, and every detail is considered, resulting in spaces that are bold and personal.

Craig Shanahan / Mood Workshop

Reioni Douglas / Culture Cush

Hannah Nowlan / Nunchi Oils

Amy Vidler

Anne U

Bel Williams

Billy Crellin

Bolaji Teniola

Cameron Green

Carl Broesen

Curtis Bloxsidge & 2am Close

Dean Norton

Eloise McCullough / Fools Glass

Em Frank

Emma Shepard

Georgia Harvey

Indigo Tolhurst

Jacquelin Kaytar

Jordan Fleming

Kelly Brown

Locki Humphrey

Martyn Thompson

Max Copolov

Melvin Josy

Nathan Martin / Saturday Yard Work

Nicole Lawrence

Objects For Thought

Patrick Scott

Ro Noonan

Simone Tops

Tantri Mustika

Thannie Phan

Thomas Maxam

Zoe Diacolabianos