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Walls and lacquered island in Resene Half Wan White, the artwork was also completed using Resene testpots.
Bedroom feature wall in Resene White Pointer, ceiling in Half Wan White, artwork in Resene testpots.
Clever design and soft tones for a compact home
Landmark Homes Central West’s newest Auckland showhome in Point Chevalier explores what modern living looks like on a smaller site. Set on a compact 206 square metre section, the home has been carefully designed to feel calm and spacious, offering 170 square metres of living space over two levels.
It proves that thoughtful planning often matters more than sheer size. And while technically a showhome, the space feels lived in rather than like a display piece.
There’s an ease to the interiors through soft natural light, layered textures and a warm, neutral palette anchored by Resene Half Wan White and White Pointer. These shades bring softness to the walls and pair beautifully with the timber finishes, travertine stone and other tactile materials.
Walls in Resene Half Wan White.
Walls and lacquered island in Resene Half Wan White, the artwork was also completed using Resene testpots.
For Central West franchise owners, Warwick and Julie Aldridge, creating a sense of generosity within a smaller footprint was central to the design approach.
“You don’t need to compromise on luxury,” says Julie. “People often think small means pokey, but that’s not what we’ve created here.”
On the ground floor the home features two bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open plan kitchen, dining and living area that flows easily outdoors. Natural light pours in throughout the day helped by elevated ceiling heights that lift the proportions of the main living spaces. Upstairs, that sense of openness continues creating a relaxed atmosphere within the second lounge and main suite.
Walls and ceiling in Resene Half Wan White.
Walls and ceiling in Half Wan White, custom artwork painted in Resene testpots.
The restrained colour palette plays an important role in shaping the mood. Resene Half Wan White wraps much of the home in a charming neutral base, while feature walls in White Pointer add subtle variation and depth.
In the kitchen, the palette continues through the curved island in Half Wan White to blend effortlessly into the wider living space. A marble benchtop, oak detailing and sculptural lighting give the room a refined feel, while practical additions keep the space grounded in everyday functionality.
A skylight positioned overhead brightens the centre of the room and draws attention to the natural textures throughout.
“We’ve tried to find clever ways to use every bit of space,” Julie says. “Especially in a smaller home, those details make a real difference.”
Office space in Resene Half Wan White.
Bathroom ceiling in Resene Half Wan White.
Curves appear repeatedly throughout the interiors, helping soften the home’s clean lines. In the downstairs ensuite, a curved, tiled wall becomes a defining design feature where the shape subtly expands the feeling of space while adding a sculptural quality to the bathroom.
Elsewhere, integrated storage has been carefully worked into the architecture itself. Cabinetry lines hallways and living areas, a laundry is tucked neatly beneath the stairs, and built-in joinery around the fireplace keeps clutter hidden while maintaining the home’s calm rhythm.
Bedroom walls in Half Wan White, artwork in Resene testpots.
Feature bedroom wall in Resene White Pointer, ceiling in Half Wan White, artwork in Resene testpots.
Adding another layer to the interiors are four, large-scale artworks created specifically for the home by Auckland artist Gabriela, who works under the name Elementalist. Known primarily for colourful acrylic and portrait work, Gabriela stepped into a softer, more restrained direction, creating abstract, landscape-inspired pieces using a range of Resene testpot colours.
Working alongside interior designer Rae Cliffe, Gabriela pulled tones directly from the home’s textiles and finishes so the artworks would feel woven naturally into the interiors. “Some classical music in the background, a colour palette and a vague idea, and magic happens,” she says.
Exterior fence in Resene Bokara Grey, deck in Resene Woodsman Decking Stain in Natural.
Board and batten wall in Resene Whitewater, steel canopy by front door in Bokara Grey.
The home feels cohesive with its natural materials, gentle neutral tones and thoughtful detailing. It’s a reminder that compact living can still feel generous when design focuses on how a home is experienced day-to-day.
design Landmark Homes
kitchen Kitchen Link
artwork Gabriella, Elementalist
Resene Pro Tip:
If you’re considering painting or staining a fence in a dark shade, use the Resene CoolColour version of your chosen shade. The technology reflects the sun's infrared rays, helping to prevent heat related issues including cupping and warping and with the added benefit of improved durability, with testing demonstrating approximately 20% increased colour durability compared to the standard finish in the same colour!
Published: 04 Jun 2026
Do you have a home full of wonderful Resene paint and colour? Send us some snaps by emailing [email protected].
Resene Half Wan White
Resene White Pointer
the look
If you're stuck on what
colour to use or need colour
advice, try out the Resene
Ask a Colour Expert service.
Resene Half Wan White
Resene White Pointer
the look
If you're stuck on what
colour to use or need colour
advice, try out the Resene
Ask a Colour Expert service.
