Camilla Franks's trademark use of vibrant, often clashing colours is also a feature of the fashion designer's home. Photo: Vanessa Levis
"Neutrals don't excite me," declares Camilla Franks. The fashion designer's love of colour goes way beyond the exotic kaftans that have made her famous. "When I was a little girl, I always had my hand in the paintbox. For me there are no colour rules; I throw it all in there."
It's an approach reflected in the flamboyant home in Paddington, Sydney, that she shares with her boyfriend, professional yachtsman John Flannery, and two large dogs, Beau and Gypsy. There are several inviting entertainment areas and the living room has a candy-striped feature wall and a riot of colourful cushions from her new furnishings range. "This is where I read a good book or watch bad TV," she says.
There's not a surface without an array of treasures, many in intense, clashing colours. "I think it's scientifically proven that colour can make you happy," she says, with a laugh.
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Home of the week
Miriam Hayes's renovated Victorian home.
Does she have favourites? "Blue and turquoise really sing to me."
Another passion is for Mexican artist Frida Kahlo, whose distinctive face adorns plates, wooden boxes and baskets throughout the home.
Because both Franks and Flannery travel frequently for their respective jobs, their time together is precious and their reunions special. That's why the chalkboard by the door reads, in anticipation, "Welcome home, Bubba!"
