look book
You searched for: Baring Head
A mid-century home with a twist
08 Jul 2025
Earlier this year, Alex moved into what she calls a “great-bones-but-recently-unloved 1970s home with understated mid-century character”. Although her aim was more of a thoughtful refresh than a full overhaul,…
A vantage point of view
24 Jun 2025
Some houses just need a little nudge to shine, and others need a full-blown revival. This Christchurch property was perhaps in the second category. Tired and a little neglected, it…
Make your rental your own: Interior designer Vanya Wilkinson shows us how it’s done
22 May 2025
When Vanya Wilkinson signed the lease on a small 1800s workingman's cottage in Auckland’s Freemans Bay the tired matte cream paintwork and worn surfaces might have put off most renters.…
Our top five bathroom picks that don’t play it safe with white
01 May 2025
While white bathrooms have long reigned supreme in the world of interiors, there’s a colourful revolution bubbling away behind closed doors – and we’re here for it. Whether it’s moody…
Berry beautiful: Inspiring hues to sweeten your space
10 Apr 2025
Berry-inspired hues bring a luscious richness to home interiors, offering a colour palette that feels both comforting and dramatic. From the deep, moody tones of blackberries to the juicy brightness…
Our top five bedroom designs to inspire your next makeover
01 Apr 2025
Whether you love calming neutrals, deep moody tones or vibrant pops of colour, these top bedroom designs showcase inspiring ways to use Resene paints and wallpapers. A well-designed bedroom isn’t…
Pattern play: Elevate your home with these unique paint and wallpaper ideas
18 Mar 2025
Patterns and textures have the power to transform a space, adding depth, personality and a sense of style to interiors. Whether bold or subtle, geometric or organic, patterned walls can…
The art of neutrals: Our top five living room looks you’re sure to love
20 Feb 2025
Neutrals are the ultimate foundation for a beautifully designed living room. Whether you love soft, warm tones or crisp, modern whites, Resene's range of neutrals offers endless possibilities for layering textures,…
Little dreamers: Colourful and creative kids’ room ideas
04 Feb 2025
A child’s bedroom is more than just a place to sleep – it’s a space for play, imagination and creativity. Whether you’re designing a nursery, a toddler’s first big-kid room…
Work it out: Fresh ideas for your home office
22 Jan 2025
After a well-deserved holiday break, diving back into work might feel a bit daunting. But what if your home office could inspire productivity, creativity and maybe even a touch of…
Bring your holiday home with these globally inspired outdoor spaces
08 Jan 2025
Whether you have a large back garden, a cosy courtyard or a tiny terrace you can still instil plenty of personality in your outdoor spaces while recreating the spirit of…
Bringing the outdoors in: Nature-inspired interiors with paints and wallpapers
20 Nov 2024
Infuse your home with the calm and beauty of nature by embracing earthy tones, leafy patterns and lush greens. Nature-inspired interiors have the power to create tranquil spaces that nurture…
Elevate your exterior and stand out in style
13 Nov 2024
Your home’s exterior is the first impression it makes, setting the tone for what lies within. From breezy coastal vibes to rich, earthy palettes, the right Resene paint colours and…
Stunning bathroom and powder room ideas – plus our top tips!
25 Sep 2024
Bathrooms and powder rooms are more than just functional spaces – they’re areas of your home that can make a big design statement. Whether you want a relaxing retreat or…
The perfect blue hue for each space in your home
11 Sep 2024
The world’s all-time favourite colour, blue, is always relevant. Evocative of the sea and sky, no hue is said to be more relaxing or restful.
This spring you can brighten your…
Embrace the heart of your home with these delightful dining room ideas
27 Aug 2024
Creating a warm and inviting dining room is all about finding the right balance between comfort and style. With an extensive range of Resene paints and wallpapers at your fingertips,…
Natural wonders: Children's bedroom ideas inspired by the remarkable world outside
22 Aug 2024
Nature brings out the childlike wonder in us all, and after lockdowns spending far too long gazing wistfully out of windows, we gained a new appreciation for every colour, sound…
Designing a colour-blind friendly home
06 Aug 2024
Creating a visually appealing home that is accommodating for those who are colour-blind requires thoughtful colour selection and pairing. By choosing the right colours and combinations, you can craft an…
Turn up the heat this winter with these warm-toned designs
16 Jul 2024
Here we are in mid-July and yes, it’s cold outside! Just the time to introduce warm colours to your home and bring in the sunshine, whatever’s happening outdoors. Whether it’s…
Red-letter days: How to use this rosy shade in your home
10 Jul 2024
Warm, bold, chic or cosy – red can do it all. From glam to retro, bright to burnished, red hues bring personality and style to your interior. And while winter…
Bring nature indoors with a biophilic design
03 Jul 2024
Biophilic design, a concept rooted in our intrinsic connection to nature, will always be a popular choice for home interiors. By incorporating natural elements and themes into your living space,…
Finding your style: Minimalism vs. Maximalism in home design
26 Jun 2024
Throughout history two contrasting styles have captured the attention of homeowners and designers – minimalist and maximalist. Each offers a unique approach to aesthetics, space and individual expression and it…
A home fit for the ton: Bridgerton inspired décor ideas
12 Jun 2024
The lavish, Regency-era aesthetic of the popular TV show Bridgerton has captivated viewers around the world, and we must admit, the luxurious patterns, historical hues and delicate pastel tones of…
How to make the most of small spaces in your home
28 May 2024
Making the most of small rooms or empty walls in your home can transform underutilised areas into functional and stylish spaces. Whether you’re looking to add a workspace, update a…
Your guide to creating a cosy living room this winter
21 May 2024
Creating a cosy living room is all about choosing the right elements that bring warmth, comfort and style to your space. With Resene's extensive range of paints and wallpapers, transforming…
Easy cost-effective ideas for renters
14 May 2024
Renters rejoice! Just because you’re not the one who owns your home, it doesn’t mean you can’t decorate it and make it a space that you love. With a bit…
Get the modern rustic look that everyone’s talking about
01 May 2024
With its fusion of sleek sophistication and organic elements, modern rustic design offers a timeless appeal that resonates with those yearning for a cosy yet stylish atmosphere within their home.…
Neutral territory: The timeless elegance of neutrals in home design
04 Apr 2024
Forever calming and restorative, the ease at which neutrals create a sanctuary-like setting means they’ll always have a place in the home. Their elegance and sophistication is why many people…
Unique nature inspired ideas for your home office
15 Feb 2024
It’s that time of year when most of us are back to work after a long, relaxing break. No doubt a lot of this time was spent outdoors enjoying the…
From generations past to present: Heritage with a contemporary edge
15 Feb 2024
Rooted in family history spanning four generations, the brief for this home was to breathe new life into the residence while maintaining the authenticity of its original architecture. Fresh Resene…
Home comforts: Leave stress at the front door
31 Jan 2024
As we begin the new year and get back into our busy lives it’s important to ensure we have a space that is comfortable and enjoyable to live in. Leave…
Paint it black: Bold and brilliant ideas for using this dark shade at home
23 Nov 2023
In New Zealand, we embrace the colour black with our sports teams, fashion and our homes! Black is a great colour choice for your home as it can be striking…
Six living room looks that are sure to give you inspiration for your home
25 Oct 2023
Transform your living space into a haven of style and comfort with six exquisite living room inspiration looks that are bound to ignite your creativity. From timeless elegance to vibrant…
Refresh your outdoor space and get summer ready this spring
27 Sep 2023
As the days grow longer and we welcome the warmer weather, it's a great time to breathe new life into your outdoor space to make it the perfect retreat for…
Transforming your home into a Hamptons retreat
20 Sep 2023
The allure of the Hamptons style is ever enduring in home design, characterised by its breezy, coastal charm and timeless elegance. Achieving this look in your home doesn't have to…
Home sweet blue home: Budget friendly ideas and tips for using blue in home décor
14 Sep 2023
Choosing the right colour palette for your home can be similar to selecting the perfect ingredients for a culinary masterpiece. Each colour has its unique flavour, and when used thoughtfully,…
From homework to hangout: Smart and stylish ideas for kids' and teens' spaces
06 Sep 2023
Creating vibrant and functional spaces for kids and teens can be an exciting endeavour. These areas are not only where they study and play but also where they express their…
A Wellington home embracing light, colour and texture
06 Sep 2023
The transformation of this mid-century Wellington home will show you the power of design to redefine spaces, inviting warmth, light and colour to coalesce in perfect harmony. This renovation project,…
Create your dream wall mural at home with this expert advice
24 Aug 2023
A mural provides a fulfilling way to express your personality and creativity, and also has the power to transform the atmosphere of a room, creating a focal point that adds…
The enchanting world of flowercore home décor
01 Aug 2023
If you enjoy embracing nature and bringing the outdoors in, this delightful interior design trend is for you. This whimsical style will infuse your home with an aura of tranquillity…
Exploring the psychology of colour in interior design
25 Jul 2023
When it comes to interior design, colour plays a vital role in creating the desired ambiance and influencing our emotions. Understanding the psychology behind paint colours will allow you to…
Red hot interiors: Make a statement with these vibrant décor ideas
11 Jul 2023
The colour red has long been associated with passion, energy and a sense of vibrancy. However, its use in home decor has evolved over the years, offering a range of…
Winter blues no more: Five paint and wallpaper ideas to infuse warmth and tropical charm into your home
22 Jun 2023
As the cold winds blow and winter settles in, there's nothing quite as inviting as a cosy and warm home. Or, how about one that makes you feel like you’re…
Beyond the fourth wall: Feature walls as the ultimate design element
07 Jun 2023
In the realm of interior design, feature walls have emerged as an extraordinary way to transform the look and feel of a space. These bold statements of creativity and design…
The power of green: How to use this serene hue in your home interiors
10 May 2023
Green is a colour that is often associated with tranquillity, balance and harmony, making it a popular choice for creating a calming and inviting atmosphere. From soft sage to vibrant…
The royal treatment: Luxurious decorating ideas for your home
26 Apr 2023
Leading up to the King’s coronation we have put together some royal inspired interior looks to fit the mood. This style is often characterised by its luxurious and ornate features…
‘Home sweet organised home’ - Tips for decluttering in style
04 Apr 2023
Having an organised home can do wonders for your mental and emotional well-being. You can still enjoy a peaceful and harmonious home without forsaking your favourite shades. With a bit…
Retro chic: Designing your home with a ’60s and ’70s flair
28 Mar 2023
Two groovy decades that saw a significant shift in interior design, the ’60s and ’70s saw a move towards more relaxed and informal interior styles. From bold colours to pop…
From bland to grand: Transform your space with a feature wall
22 Mar 2023
Are the rooms in your home looking a little flat? Or maybe you’re tired of seeing the same old colour on each wall? A feature wall might be just what…
A labour of love: Restoring charm to a neglected villa
15 Mar 2023
This delightful Wellington villa had been through two major renovations before Russell and Anna Allen bought it. However, some years of ‘deferred maintenance’ from the previous owner meant the couple…
Beyond borders: International themed interior ideas
08 Mar 2023
From chic New York to Japanese zen, we’ve got the global inspiration to bring a bit of worldly charm to your home. With a wide range of Resene paints and…
Four inspiring home office colour schemes
14 Feb 2023
A home office is a space where creativity, productivity and comfort should all come together to create an efficient and inviting work environment. With the rise of remote work and…
6 ways to make the most of small spaces
25 Jan 2023
Do you find yourself walking past a dull corner or room in your house and wonder what you can do with such a small space? Or perhaps you have a…
Top stories for 2022: From restored villas to blue-themed rooms and inspiring neutrals, these are our most-popular reads this year
20 Dec 2022
As the year draws to a close, it’s time to revisit habitat readers’ most read stories of 2022. From villa makeovers to a whimsical gingerbread home and tips for trying…
Beach house style: Coastal colour schemes to embrace at home or the bach
02 Nov 2022
In New Zealand and Australia, no matter where you are, you’ve never very far from the beach. Many of us have grown up in or around the water, so why…
From 70s funk to modern haven with three different Resene greens
15 Sep 2022
When Alex and Brendon walked into their 70s home for the first time, they immediately saw charm and potential – even though the property had some quirks. When the couple…
Three’s The Block NZ: Kitchen & Dining room week
08 Sep 2022
Kitchen & Dining room week on The Block NZ is always sure to bring some drama, but despite a power cut, a leak, multiple delays and an artwork fiasco the…
Get the Barbiecore interior look and think pink
18 Aug 2022
Missing a little boldness and fun in your home? The Barbiecore interior trend has arrived. Barbie-inspired looks embrace all that is pink and takes a maximalist approach. Go glam and…
Understated coastal charm in Castlepoint with Resene Sea Fog and Resene Silver Sand
03 Aug 2022
Peer out the window of this Wairarapa Coast home and you might spy fur seals, dolphins or nesting gulls. Perched on a hilly corner in Castlepoint, this home is character-packed…
Kid’s bedrooms revealed on Three’s The Block NZ
27 Jul 2022
Another exciting week on Three’s The Block NZ saw the teams create four colourful kid’s bedrooms. Bold use of the colours Resene Bounty and Resene Sea Fog saw one team score a…
Wow, wow, wow! This 1893 villa’s Victorian-inspired colour palette is a must-see
06 Jul 2022
Rachel’s home is rich in history, having long peered out towards Auckland’s harbour on Buchanan Street. One of Devonport’s earliest villas, the iconic home’s interior has just received a head-to-toe…
Transform a room with colour: 3 interior designers dish their top tips
29 Jun 2022
It can be overwhelming or even downright intimidating figuring out how to incorporate colour into your home. Perhaps there’s a space you love but you know it could do with…
A photograph from space inspired the colours in this 1920s bungalow
23 Jun 2022
Palmerston North homeowners Bridget and William haven’t shied away from bold use of colour in their 1920s character bungalow – bright Resene turquoises, yellows and deep blues feature throughout. “We’ve…
Creative family’s eclectic home nestled in the Karangahake Gorge
09 Jun 2022
After living off-grid on their land in the Karangahake Gorge for five years, Roshan and Metuisela felt it was time for something new. With busy working lives and their children…
An interior designer’s modern twist on her 1920s bungalow
30 Mar 2022
Until recently, interior designer Sonja Low’s 1920s bungalow was decked out in aging 80s apricots and faded yellows. Rolling up her sleeves, Sonja got to work modernising the family home…
High-octane summer colours make a vivid statement in interiors
19 Jan 2022
Take a lead from nature’s summer colours – whether it’s the crimson shots of pohutukawa flowers to the brilliance of bougainvillea, amping up the dial in your home is easy…
Eight Resene dark greens and how to use them
16 Dec 2021
Green is a colour that can evoke powerful emotion, it’s a dominant colour in nature associated with renewal and life and so represents harmony, balance and peace. And who doesn’t…
This century-old Brisbane Queenslander is transformed into a tropical oasis with summer green Resene Edgewater and Resene Warrior
21 Oct 2021
For homeowners Maria and Roger, renovating their century-old Brisbane Queenslander helped them fall in love with the features of their heritage home. With a dark, dated interior and tired yellow…
Check out these luxurious living rooms from Three’s The Block NZ
21 Jul 2021
Block-a-holics were treated to another week of creativity on Three’s The Block NZ. Living Room Week took the competition to new heights, with some of the cathedral-like spaces transformed in…
The drama continues on Three’s The Block NZ for Master Bedroom, Ensuite & Wardrobe week
14 Jul 2021
This week saw the teams on Three’s The Block NZ vying for a massive $10,000 prize for their master bedrooms, ensuites & wardrobes. With some clever building skills and creative…
It’s a bathroom bonanza on Three’s The Block NZ this week
07 Jul 2021
Family Bathroom Week on Three’s The Block NZ proved to be one of the biggest weeks to date. The week was interrupted when New Zealand was plunged into level four…
These colour ideas will have your home fit for royalty – from jewel tones to purple reign
03 Jun 2021
Give your home the royal treatment this long weekend. Embrace your inner king or queen and pamper yourself with a room painted in royal colours. Resene has a rich range…
10 room makeover projects for under $500 (that you can do in a weekend)
27 May 2021
If you’re strapped for time and strapped for cash, then these ideas are for you. Having a budget before you start your renovation is a great way to stay on…
Embrace a pop of colour: Get brave with colour
11 Mar 2021
Adding colour to a room is a quick and affordable way to update your home and add energy and vibrancy to a space. But for first-time decorators choosing colours can…
Choosing roof profiles: These striking homes prove there’s more to an eye-catching roof than just colour.
27 Jan 2021
Colour is a key driver when choosing your new roof, but the profile also plays an equally important role in achieving the look and style you want.
With a wide range…
Smart and colourful solutions for supersizing your kitchen storage capabilities.
04 Feb 2021
The ply millwork and ceiling in this kitchen, designed by Strachan Group Architects (SGA), lets the beauty of the woodgrain shine through in Resene Colorwood Natural wood stain and looks…
A historic Mount Eden villa gets the loving touch from an interior designer who calls her mother a client.
15 Dec 2020
When interior designer Clare Kitching set about creating a new Resene colour scheme for her mother Raewyn’s late-1800s villa, she started by reviewing her own taste.
“My mum is more of…
A charismatic Christchurch villa’s relaxed, earthy refresh
18 Nov 2020
Charm and a good location are elusive qualities in a home, curiously difficult to come by – and even more difficult to come by together. So, when Christchurch-based first-home buyers…
A 50s brick and tile is thoughtfully revamped for modern living
14 Oct 2020
When Alastair and Demelza bought their 1950s home, a brick-and-tile nestled in Dunedin’s Anderson’s Bay, it was a shell of its former self. For many years, the home had lived…
6 beautiful blue rooms that will convince you that it’s time to redecorate
09 Sep 2020
Restful, relaxing and reassuring, blue hues have long been used to create tranquil spaces in our homes. A colour that calls to mind the sea and the sky, it’s ideal…
This eclectic Greytown home is a celebration of creative colour use
09 Sep 2020
Every design decision Nikki makes when decorating her Greytown home follows a simple rule: it has to be pretty and practical. Working with a lively palette of Resene colours, Nikki…
9 stylists weigh in on the hottest trending colours to decorate with now
02 Sep 2020
We’ve found ourselves in the midst of a unique time in history that has thrown us all for a curve. Whatever our plans were, they’ve either been disrupted, cancelled, shifted…
How to embrace your inner maximalist with a carefully curated collection
19 Aug 2020
Thanks to Marie Kondo’s ‘KonMari’ method, the successfully organised among us have managed to minimalise our homes to stark perfection. And while elegant neutral walls, soft curves and earthy, homespun…
Kelly Gammie gives her Auckland home a light and bright lift
01 Jul 2020
The last time we featured interior designer Kelly Gammie’s Auckland home, it was decorated with a blend of dark Resene neutral, hand-painted and custom coloured grasscloth wallpapers from the Resene…
Three spectacular garden sheds that do more than just store tools
24 Jun 2020
For most, a shed is a basic garden structure where we might keep our lawnmower, potting mix or general outdoor bits and bobs. But, for these three creatives, a shed…
8 colours to cosy up to this winter
28 May 2020
Starting to feel the winter blues? The mercury may be dropping, but there is a silver living: now’s the perfect time to fluff up your interiors and introduce beautiful Resene…
Be a man, get a cave
03 Jun 2014
Warning: this article will reinforce gender stereotypes. It has to. It’s about man caves.
The man cave has been around for centuries providing men with a hub in which they can…
A splash of citrus
01 Oct 2014
A slice of lemon with that? It’s a question that evokes images of a cooling drink by the pool… and it’s what’s happening with our interiors this summer.
A shot of…
Readers share their tips
04 Dec 2014
Over the years DIYers have kindly sent in lots of tips and ideas to make decorating easier. Here’s a selection for your education… and amusement.
Note that these tips have not…
DIY paint ideas for the bedroom
07 May 2015
There’s much satisfaction that comes from creating with your hands, which is why the do-it-yourself trend is one that’s really sticking around.
If you’re new to the game, making furnishings for…
Rick and Carolyn’s elegantly grand ‘barn’
26 Jul 2015
When Rick and Carolyn Thompson were looking for a new home, the classic lines of Customkit’s designs allowed them to create a home that’s strikingly simple… yet a little bit…
First impressions count – front door heroes
03 Sep 2015
It’s the smile on your house, the thing that says ‘here we are; come on over’. Front doors. Perhaps that’s why front doors are so often painted in cheery, welcoming…
A world of colour
09 Dec 2015
Colourist Megan Harrison-Turner takes us to exotic places, and shows how colour can bring a little bit of overseas into our homes.
Moroccan spice
Inspiring writers, poets and designers for decades, the…
Liz and Jody's enchanting country home
12 Dec 2015
Once upon a time, there was a couple who wanted a renovation challenge. They found it in Ashfield, a house built in 1913 for a country doctor to reside and…
Jill’s ever-changing honey coloured home
15 Mar 2016
Decor, colour, houses and furniture have been Jill Gibbs' life for years, advising clients through a variety of retail outlets. After-hours she plays havoc at home with a palette of…
Build a swingseat
28 Mar 2016
Summer may be over, but that doesn't mean you can't continue to enjoy the outdoors. This swingseat is a great incentive to head into the garden and enjoy the fresh…
Colour combos to try right now
01 Sep 2016
There’s something about pulling together interesting and good looking colour combos that makes us want to pat ourselves on the back. Oh, the satisfaction of a stunning colour palette. Picking up…
Jema and Peter turn tradition on its head
14 Jun 2015
Jema Swann admits that grey would have been the more obvious for her home's entranceway. The deer farmer settled on dramatic Resene Magnetic from the Resene Metallics and special effects collection, instead. "When the sun shines through the…
Take a testpot... kid's edition
10 Jan 2017
When it comes to decorating kids' bedrooms, it's okay to indulge in a bit of imagination. After all, with so many colours in the Resene paint range, there's really no limit.
Get the kids involved…
See the colour that adds dollars to your home
06 Jul 2017
Are you selling your home and wondering what colour interiors will appeal the most? The common philosophy is to play it safe and have a broad appeal by painting everything in inoffensive…
Top wallpaper picks this season
18 Oct 2017
Our love affair with wallpapers continues as we head into spring and summer, whether we use them as whole room treatments or just a feature wall or two. Resene ColorShops…
Enviable outdoor living
14 Dec 2017
The summer months call for us to head outdoors and spruce up our exteriors. Whether it's a splash of colour or a bigger renovation, from Resene Atlas board and batten to a…
Sally stays true to green
22 Feb 2018
Often when renovating a house, it’s out with the old colour scheme and in with the new. However, such was Sally Fitzsimmons’ love for Resene Oxley that when it came…
How to create a tone-on-tone scheme
07 Jun 2018
Put one stylist and a load of paint into a room, give her the task of creating tone-on-tone tabletops, and this is what you get.
We’ve been talking about tone-on-tone schemes…
Amber brings her happy place home
26 Apr 2018
Many of us have a ‘happy place’ – a particular spot, town or location that makes us feel good. Your happy place might be a particular type, like a bush…
Laura and Michael’s award winning black and white beauty
26 Apr 2018
For anyone that thinks black and white is boring, it couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to the home of Laura and Michael of the Bay of…
On trend: The return of red
08 Nov 2018
Red, with all its associations of passion, power and personality, is a colour we come back to again and again in our preferred design trends. The shades of red in…
Rod and Heather’s captivating Cape Cod cottage
29 Nov 2018
With its cape-cod style architecture and fresh blue Resene French Pass exterior, Heather and Rod Claycomb’s Sand Dollar Cottage in Matarangi is a real head-turner.
The couple built the new building…
On trend: Colours to improve your mood
20 Dec 2018
There is nothing quite like opening the front door of your home and feeling your whole mood lift. It’s the sure sign of a house that is a true reflection…
George and Yvonne turn a neutral palette on its head
07 Feb 2019
When talking neutrals in a home, it’s understandable that your first thought would turn to shades of whites and greys. But for Nelson architect George Hilgeholt, neutral meant a home painted…
Charlotte and Greg create colourful character in a newly constructed home
18 Sep 2019
Since Charlotte and Greg Quinn bought their first house in the UK in 2006, they have loved living in houses with a strong architectural style and plenty of character.
“Most houses…
Jen and Dan’s blissful master bedroom sets the stage for more colour to come
28 Nov 2019
When Jen first moved to New Zealand from her native Scotland in 2005, she hoped and dreamed of the day that she and her husband would own a house on…
Charlotte Coote’s expertly coloured Mt Macedon home has style to spare
28 Jan 2020
When interior designer Charlotte Coote of Coote & Co and her husband Geordie purchased their aging yet promising Mt Macedon home in 2017, they certainly had their work cut out…
