Our Story
"Today I am so very proud of the small family business I have built. I could not have done it without the love and support of my two boys James and Ben, and my fiancé Ian, for whom I am forever grateful."
Welcome to Sun Republic, where every piece tells a story of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
From the humble beginnings of a childhood spent among the clatter of tools and the scent of sawdust, my journey has been woven with threads of craftsmanship and family heritage. Born into a lineage of 'tradies', I found solace and joy in the art of creation under the guidance of my grandfather and father. Those early days instilled in me a deep appreciation for the craft and a love for bringing spaces to life.
As life unfolded, I married a tradie, created two little tradies of my own, and for two decades, I immersed myself in the realms of building, interior design, architecture, and consultancy, honing my skills and nurturing a profound connection with the world of design.
Life then presented me with an unexpected turn, and in the wake of sudden and heart-wrenching loss, each day was a step towards crafting a new normal, navigating a new path to rebuild within the challenges that lay before me. Fueled by the love for my two young sons, I embarked on a journey of rediscovery—a journey that would lead me to unexpected blessings, and BJS Designs was born, a testament to the unwavering spirit of resilience that beats within us all.
Amid the echoes of loss, I found purpose in my passion for design and creation, with each project a testament to the beauty that can emerge from the depths of adversity. From designing interiors to crafting homewares, every endeavour was infused with love and dedication. The weekends saw me at markets, sharing my creations with the world, one piece at a time.
As the years passed and life's tides ebbed and flowed, a new chapter unfolded, when love found me once again. Ian emerged as a beacon of light, bringing with him unyielding support and boundless love. His presence became my steadfast companion as I continued to navigate the journey ahead.
Driven by the encouragement of loved ones and the unwavering support of cherished clients, Sun Republic emerged—a culmination of dreams, aspirations, and a commitment to making a difference. At Sun Republic, we stand as advocates of sustainability, ethical craftsmanship, and community empowerment.
Each piece in our collection is a testament to the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions, crafted by skilled artisans whose talents have been passed down through generations. Through our ethical supply chain, we not only create beautiful pieces but also support communities and uplift women's cooperatives worldwide.
With Ian's continued support, I nurtured the seeds of Sun Republic, weaving my dream into reality one step at a time. His presence and belief in me fueled the journey forward, bringing Sun Republic to where it stands today.
As I reflect on the journey that brought me here, I am overwhelmed with immense pride and gratitude. This journey wouldn't have been possible without the unwavering love and support of my two sons, James and Ben, my beloved fiancé, Ian, and the incredible support of our cherished clients. Each one of you has played an integral role in shaping Sun Republic into what it is today, and for that, I am eternally grateful.
As you welcome Sun Republic into your home, know that each piece is infused with love, dedication, and a deep sense of purpose. We hope that our creations bring you as much joy as they have brought us in crafting them.
Sun Republic—a testament to resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of passion.
With Love and gratitude
Sharlene x