The Clapham Colour House
This vibrant Bauhaus meets Miami family home in Clapham, South London uses colour and joy as its design language.
It was designed by Justine Guillermou, aka Rainbow Shaker with a female-led trades team collaboration. This included electricians, carpenters and decorators, as well as Justine herself.
The concept was to create a playful, bold space for a young family that wanted to embrace colour and imagination within their home.
The finished product boasts bold colour blocking, custom joinery and creative kids’ ones for the young family. We are particularly wowed by the jungle hut bedroom and the disco-foot party room!
We chatted with Justine to get the full lowdown on the Clapham Colour House.
What inspired such a colourful space?
“When I first visited the house, it felt flat and grey — not just in colour, but in spirit.
“The previous owners had painted most of the walls in muted tones, and although the layout had real potential, it didn’t reflect the personality or rhythm of the family living there: vibrant, funny, full of life.
“One of them was working from home in that space every day, and the atmosphere was starting to take a toll — it felt heavy and draining.
“Like many busy parents with young kids and demanding jobs, they knew they wanted something more joyful, but hadn’t had the time or headspace to make it happen.
“My job was to unlock that shift — to bring in light, energy, and emotion, and create a home that felt uplifting every time they walked through the door.
“The result is a space full of optimism and joy.
“Colour was just the medium — the goal was always emotional: to help them feel good in their space again. And now they do.”
Photo: Neil Perry Photography
How did you come up with the concept?
“I always start with empathy — I walk, sit, lie down, and follow the morning rush and bedtime routine to understand how the space flows (or doesn’t).
“The goal is to make the home work for the family, not the other way around.
“Then we dig into who they are. Instead of asking the usual “What’s your favourite colour?”, I ask, “How do you want to feel here?” — the aim is to design from memory, not fleeting trends.
“In this case, they shared a vivid memory of a holiday in Miami — all sunshine, bold colour and good vibes.
“That memory became our guiding thread for the communal spaces: we wanted something full of warmth, energy, and fun — much like them.
“Throughout, I used my signature bold shapes and colour blocking to bring in contrast, zoning, and play.
“Think Bauhaus meets Miami sunshine… with a twist of family joy and quirks.
“For the kids’ rooms, the brief was pure imagination — one wanted a jungle hut, the other a disco wake-up call. So I gave them both!”
Photo: Neil Perry Photography
The stairs are particularly iconic. How were they created?
“The stairs were a design moment I was really excited about.
“I wanted the hallway to burst with movement the second you opened the door.
“I’d been thinking a lot about vinyl since a podcast episode I recorded with Jacob Mizrahi, who creates incredible custom designs.
“That got me experimenting. I designed the stair riser pattern digitally, playing with shapes until the rhythm felt right — then had it printed on commercial-grade vinyl strips.
“It turned a purely functional zone into a “wow, we’re home!” moment. Guests can’t help but smile.”
Photo: Neil Perry Photography
The window seat in one of the kids’ bedrooms is a great use of space. How was this designed?
“This one was really close to my heart. I worked with the brilliant Chisel Sisters — an amazing female carpentry duo — to bring it to life.
“We wanted to create a special spot where the little boy could hide away, relax, and look out the window.
“We added soft curtains he can close, and even fitted LEDs on the ceiling of the alcove for a dreamy cocoon effect.
“What made it even more meaningful was that he told me he loved pink, but worried his friends might tease him.
“So we made his nook secretly pink — a happy, hidden corner that feels just like him.
“And yes… I even sewed the cushion myself!”
Photo: Neil Perry Photography
The use of curves in the archways make the space feel more open and friendly. Why was this important?
“Curves are emotional; they soften and welcome.
“The house already had arched openings and gentle ceiling curves, so I highlighted them rather than box them in.
“Those rounded lines balance the punchy colour palette and make the whole place feel as friendly as the people who live there.”
Photo: Neil Perry Photography
Can you share where some of the key pieces of furniture/accessories are from?
“I love mixing small independent brands with vintage or second-hand finds — it brings both soul and sustainability into a space.”
We’ve shared some highlights below…
- Velvet wiggly cushion from Fox & Furb’s Bauhaus-inspired collection — bold, tactile and a little bit cheeky
- Nook seat cushion made with Sorbet Dreams fabric — their playful patterns always make Justine smile
- Art prints from East End Prints — punchy favourites and a fun nod to Justine’s own East London roots
- Bespoke carpentry created with the brilliant Chisel Sisters
- Plus plenty of styling touches sourced from local vintage shops and online marketplaces — Justine’s always on the lookout for hidden gems!
Who is the Rainbow Shaker?
Justine Guillermou is a London-based interior designer known for expressive, colour-forward spaces that balance playfulness with purpose.
“Her work often celebrates collaboration, character and joyful storytelling through interiors.
You may recognise Justine from her appearance on The Big Interiors Battle, and also as the producer and host of the Colour Your Home Happy podcast – inspiring listeners to create unique and happy interiors.
Find out more about the Rainbow Shaker here, and follow her Instagram page.
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