Meet:

Jasmine Dowthwaite

TBR’s Founder + Creative Director

"Art has become a focus for me over the last few years. I just went to see the Crawley family’s new home and it was like an art gallery. The house is stunning on its own but the artwork just amplified it to another level."

It’s no secret that Three Balls Red’s tight-knit team is its superpower and at its heart is founder and creative director, Jasmine Dowthwaite. A true leader rather than ‘a boss’, the ebullient Jas is loved by her team, clients, architects and builders alike. We sat down with our art-loving leading lady to chat about her new personal project Olsens Miami, her design inspirations and the brand's quirky moniker.

OK, we need to know. Where does the quirky name, Three Balls Red, come from?

I love that so many people want to know! Perhaps, I’ll just say nothing and keep people guessing [laughs]. I think the stories other people have guessed are even better than the real story anyway..

Have you always had a passion for design and interiors?

I think so. We moved a bit as kids and my mum always made our houses look really stylish no matter what or where they were. I didn’t realise at the time but I guess the seed was planted back then. From there, I have always gravitated towards different versions of design and designers.

What sets TBR apart from your competitors?

My team! I can’t tell you how great it is to come to work every day and be surrounded by such a hardworking, passionate and supportive team. Each team member so different - all with their own strengths - but when combined, it just makes the shop such a nice environment to be in.I think people love coming into the shop grabbing a coffee from Roller Door, checking out the beautiful range of products and picking the girls’ design brains - plus having a giggle and maybe a cheeky wine if it is Friday afternoon. Three Balls Red is an experience not just a retail outlet.

Your family home, The Miami House, attracted a lot of press. Can you share your top tips for builders and renovators?

Plan ahead and never assume. Do a full schedule of finishes before you even get a builder to quote so you know exactly what you are getting. You can also get a more accurate quote from your builder. Variations are not your friend.

You are about to start another project, Olsens Miami. Can you tell us a little about this project?

We are building with our friends Havendeen. I really love Tui’s eye for detail. She is just one of those people who effortlessly brings things together. After our last build, we were looking towards small houses, using sustainable products where possible. We are often at work and the kids are at school or sport so keeping it easy and practical but, of course, still keeping our personality. Showcasing TBR products is always a key focus, especially all our local manufacturers.

Is this the forever home?

If my daughter Milla reads this, I could be in trouble. The poor kids are so over moving. But, never say never!

How would you describe your personal interior/architectural style?

I appreciate a bit of a mash up of different styles. I do love mid-century, modernist, old Queenslanders with a modern reno out the back, quirky container homes, industrial minimalist and Spanish-inspired beach shacks. You name it and I will find something I like about it

Who is your favourite architect?

I do love John Lautner. I remember seeing the Lautner house in the movie, A Single Man and falling in love with it. Locally, I have a number of architects I love working with and admire. I haven’t worked with Harley Graham yet but hope to in the future.

What constitutes a great home?

Feeling at home as soon as you walk through the door. That breathe out, relaxed feeling.

Your top splurges when it comes to interiors?

Art has become a focus for me over the last few years. I went to see the Crawley family’s new home, ‘Our Sabbath Home’ and it was like an art gallery. The house is stunning on its own but the artwork just amplified it to another level.

THREE BALLS RED'S ART COLLECTION