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Inside the Omokoroa home that nailed the brief
16 Jul 2025
If you’ve ever built a home from scratch, you’ll know that every design choice matters – especially colour. And for the owners of this Omokoroa property sitting right beside the…
Time to rethink your flooring
08 Jul 2025
Floors are not always the first thing we think about when decorating our homes, but when done right, they can make all the difference and become an impactful feature. Use…
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 bittersweet farewell for a 1920s bungalow
02 Jul 2025
Letting go of a first home is never easy. Every corner and wall holds a milestone, a memory and a meaning. But as life shifted – with mortgage renewals and…
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…
Our top living room picks to keep you cosy this season
19 Jun 2025
As the chill of winter rolls in, there’s nothing quite like retreating to a snug, stylish living room that wraps you up in comfort. Whether you're curling up with a…
Perfectly pitched: A colourful, climate-savvy home in Te Awa
11 Jun 2025
When homeowners Caitlin and Matthew decided to build their dream family home in Napier’s Te Awa, they didn’t want to blend in with the neighbours, they wanted to build something…
Paint it Green: Hue knew your home could look this good?
05 Jun 2025
Once the colour of avocado bathrooms and shag carpet, green has well and truly shed its retro skin. Now it’s one of the most versatile shades in home design –…
What is colour drenching and why you should consider it for your home
22 May 2025
Colour drenching is a design technique that involves enveloping a room entirely in a single hue, from floor to ceiling. It’s a bold, immersive approach that has taken off in…
Beneath the mountain’s gaze: A home built for the view and the future
10 Apr 2025
Architect Sophie Bishop has brought a dark and moody dream home to life at the foot of Maungarei, Mount Wellington, using bold Resene colours in a design that embraces its…
The secret to a sophisticated home? A little moody magic!
01 Apr 2025
Some homes whisper, while others make a statement. This 1990s house, once cold and uninspired, has been transformed into a warm, stylish retreat thanks to the expertise of Oliver Myles…
How to pick the right exterior paint colour for your home
27 Mar 2025
The exterior of your home is the first thing people see, making it an important canvas to showcase style and personality. Whether you’re drawn to timeless neutrals, rich earthy tones…
Street appeal: Exterior colours inspired by the great outdoors
12 Mar 2025
If the outside of your home is looking a little rough and in need of some love, there’s no time like the present to give it a refresh. The cooler…
A colourful comeback for a 1970s townhouse
05 Mar 2025
Huddled in a row of 18 dual townhouses built in 1972, Ann’s home is a charming example of 1970s design, refreshed with charming neutrals and the gorgeous blue of Resene…
Unique nature-inspired ideas for every room in your home
27 Feb 2025
Bringing the outdoors in is a wonderful way to create a refreshing and uplifting atmosphere in your home. With stunning Resene wallpapers inspired by nature, you can transform any room…
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,…
The artful home of Rachel Rush
12 Feb 2025
When Rachel and Graham set out to build their dream home, they had one goal in mind: to make a vision they both shared a reality. With a love for…
Superior exteriors: Colour is key to creating a home with street style
15 Jan 2025
Painting or staining your home’s exterior might seem like an enormous task but there’s nothing quite like the street appeal of a freshly painted or stained house or the sense…
Painting the perfect picture: Timeless home exterior ideas
17 Dec 2024
Choosing the right exterior colours for your home is more than just a design decision – it’s about creating a lasting impression that reflects your surroundings and personal style. From…
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…
Country connections
23 Oct 2024
Harking back to a more relaxed way of living has become more familiar over the past few years. With many choosing to shift to the country away from the hustle…
The charming transformation of a French country home
23 Oct 2024
Tucked among a grove of large trees on a generous 2200m² site, this French country home, originally built in the late 1930s as a farm cottage, boasts unique character and…
Bold and beautiful: A Wellington home bathed in colour
09 Oct 2024
Nestled into the side of a Wellington hill, this stunning multilevel home offers a bold and inviting retreat for its owners, who moved from Sydney and wanted to bring a…
Pastel perfection: The colourful canvas of Bridget’s dream home
02 Oct 2024
Bridget and her family’s 1930’s weatherboard farmhouse in New Plymouth is a celebration of colour and vintage charm. With sweeping 180-degree views of the ocean and Mount Ruapehu in the…
A timeless transformation: Modernising a traditional bungalow
17 Sep 2024
When interior designer Rose Schwarz of Schwarz Design was invited to revamp a tired bungalow, the brief was clear. The client wanted a fresh look, a new kitchen and a…
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…
Crafting curb appeal: Mastering your home’s exterior colour scheme
03 Sep 2024
When it comes to enhancing the exterior of your home, there is an array of stunning colour options that can beautifully highlight both traditional and modern architectural features. Whether you're…
From gloomy dark to vintage delight: A 1973 unit transformed
27 Aug 2024
Nestled in a peaceful Lower Hutt neighbourhood, Lesley’s home has had a bright and cheery transformation thanks to the nostalgic Resene paint colours she chose. The 1973 two-bedroom unit, built…
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,…
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…
Balancing beauty and functionality with neutrals
16 Jul 2024
Sitting within a new subdivision in West Auckland is a house brought to life by its rich, warm Resene colour palette. A mixture of warm whites, carefully chosen feature walls…
Art and soul: A 1910 villa with an unexpected colour scheme
10 Jul 2024
Artist Catherine Robert’s revival of a run-down 1910’s Wellington villa was a labour of love, patience and self-expression. She was intent on injecting love and personality back into the house…
A home among the trees: The innovative design of Bell House
03 Jul 2024
It’s safe to say Christopher’s house in Whitby, Porirua presented the team at Robertson Architects a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Nestled in amongst the tree canopy sits the…
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,…
A colour maximalist's dream: Inside a dazzling 1980s home transformation
20 Jun 2024
This architect-designed home, built in 1989 for a Russian client, is a unique treasure where modernism meets brutalism. Although tired and run down, Nadene and Sam, immediately fell in love…
A Southern Alps chalet designed for a cosy escape
12 Jun 2024
After many years as ski club members at the Porter Heights Ski Club, Mel Fergus and her husband decided to create their very own getaway. At the base of the…
A villa transformation: Breathing life into a family home
28 May 2024
With a growing family at hand, these homeowners desperately needed more space, as well as some colour and life injected into their villa. Alongside some structural changes, gentle blues and…
Harmony in neutrals: A modern sanctuary in Christchurch
07 May 2024
Part of a new development in Christchurch, this new build is a charming, light-filled gem painted in timeless Resene neutrals. The mix of various whites and neutrals with earthy tones…
She’s done it again! See how Priyanka has transformed this home into a luxurious sanctuary
01 May 2024
Architectural and interior designer Priyanka Sareen from Home Factor knows just how to create a cosy yet elegant home. Her use of Resene paints continues to wow her clients and this…
Warm vs cool: Deciding on the right colour palette for your home
11 Apr 2024
Generally speaking, cool colours are blues, greens and purples, while warm colours are reds, oranges and yellows. However, it is possible to have a cool colour with a warm undertone…
Organising your clutter: How to create the perfect drop zone
27 Mar 2024
Are you tired of constantly losing track of your keys, phone or even your sanity in the chaos of daily life? Well, fear not! We've got just the solution to…
A day for colour: Our most vibrant and dazzling designs yet!
21 Mar 2024
Today might just be Resene’s favourite day of the year – it’s International Colour Day! International Colour Day was created to celebrate all things colour, and who loves colour more…
Get funky with these vintage and retro looks
28 Feb 2024
The appeal of vintage and retro aesthetics continues to endure in home décor, offering a timeless charm that transcends eras. Resene paints and wallpapers provide the perfect canvas to recreate…
Elevate your home's exterior with these colour ideas
05 Feb 2024
When it comes to exteriors, colour scheme plays a pivotal role in defining the aesthetic appeal and overall ambiance of your home. Let’s take a look at some classic and…
Tis the season: Five festive and stylish ideas for your home
06 Dec 2023
When it comes to decorating your home for Christmas, it doesn’t have to be all traditional green and red with mountains of tinsel. Using some simple tricks and styling ideas,…
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…
A symphony of shades: A home transformed by colours, textures and creativity
23 Nov 2023
In early 2018, Logan and Kelly alongside Logan's parent's embarked on a project that transformed their West Auckland section into a vibrant, colourful haven. With the help of interior designer…
From 1890 to today: A home where the past meets the present in perfect harmony
07 Nov 2023
Located in one of Sydney’s most iconic heritage precincts, this terrace house originally built in the 1890s has been restored and transformed into a contemporary family home with the help…
Warm up your home: Paint it orange for Arthritis NZ
31 Oct 2023
When it comes to decorating your home, paint plays a crucial role in setting the mood and defining your living spaces. Colours have the power to transform any room from…
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…
Wallpaper inspiration: Six trendy looks from new Resene Wallpaper Collections
17 Oct 2023
From subtle neutrals to vibrant colours and extravagant Versace designs, you’re sure to find your dream wallpaper in these collections We’re taking a look at a design from each of…
A dreamy makeover for an Invercargill villa
04 Oct 2023
The charming city of Invercargill, at the southern tip of New Zealand, boasts a rich history filled with elegant villas that have stood the test of time. One such villa…
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…
Reviving mid-century elegance: A home transformed with timeless shades
30 Aug 2023
Nestled amidst the tree-lined streets in Mt Eden, Auckland, is a 1960s mid-century gem that has undergone a remarkable transformation. Homeowner Amy and her family worked hard to revive the…
Splashes of magic: A look inside an out-of-this-world home
15 Aug 2023
Stepping through the doors of Laura and Krispin home in Te Awamutu is an out-of-this-world experience. There’s a ‘moonscape’ in the landing area near the front door (actually, an original…
Scandi living: The art of cosy and functional interiors
08 Aug 2023
Scandinavian design is a minimalist and functional approach to interior design that emerged in the mid-20th century in the Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden. It emphasises…
A 1910 villa with a harmonious blend of traditional and modern
08 Aug 2023
If you love a villa makeover as much as we do, this charming 1910 villa is sure to catch your eye. Painted in stunning Resene neutrals, this home is a…
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…
Blending tradition and modernity to create a multi-generational home
25 Jul 2023
In the pursuit of creating a harmonious living space for two families residing under one roof, interior designers and husband and wife duo, Madushin and Tehani Amarasekera, embarked on a…
From neglected to coastal chic: The stunning renovation of a Queensland worker's cottage
11 Jul 2023
When Jared and Sarah bought their 1930s home in Burleigh Heads, its mood was anything but coastal chic. The living room featured pink walls and matted, purple carpet; its kitchen…
A breath of fresh air: Restoring charm to a beachside bungalow
22 Jun 2023
Nestled just a few houses from the beach, this charming bungalow owned by Jacquie and Gerard has undergone a remarkable transformation. Built in 1926 with cedar, the original house exuded…
Vibrant and Victorian: The story behind Clarks Beach's charming historic home
13 Jun 2023
If there was ever a home with a story to tell, it’s this one! Situated in Clarks Beach, Hayley and Chris love their 640 square metre Victorian beauty that sits…
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…
Captivating character: An Auckland home showcasing the essence of South Island living
07 Jun 2023
Nestled in the picturesque town of Riverhead, a stunning home designed by Hoxha Bailey Architects, in collaboration with clients Denise and Brett, stands as a testament to the couple’s shared…
Inside the home of stylist extraordinaire Shelley Ferguson: A budget-friendly transformation
23 May 2023
You may know Shelley Ferguson for many things, including her appearance on TV shows like TV3’s The Block NZ, her skills as an award-winning stylist and even her role as…
Hamptons meets the countryside: A winning combination for this converted barn house
10 May 2023
Amalia and Matt bought a barn shed in 2014 with a vision to transform it into a modern Hamptons style barn house. Using bold greys like Resene Ironsand and gentle…
Tiny tots, big designs: Interior ideas for kids' rooms
04 May 2023
When it comes to designing a child's bedroom, there are endless possibilities to create a fun and functional space that both you and your little one will love. Whether you're…
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…
See the colours that made this ex-rental a bright and brilliant home
26 Apr 2023
With the housing market booming, the cost to buy new was above Krystal and Michael Brown’s price range, so they thought outside the box and found an ex-rental property to…
Nature's moody hues: A home that reflects its alpine surroundings
13 Apr 2023
Architectural and interior designer at Home Factor, Priyanka Sareen, has done it again. With an array of soft and bold Resene paint colours, she drew inspiration from the natural environment…
Simple scheme, broad appeal: A brick and weatherboard home transformed
29 Mar 2023
When this 1960s brick and weatherboard home was bought by owner Tom, it lacked the character and charm it deserved. Seeking help from interior designer Kate Alexander, fresh Resene neutrals…
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…
A 100-year-old villa restored with modern charm
22 Feb 2023
With a history of more than 100 years, this quaint villa in sunny Nelson deserved more than its once trendy ’70s’ style décor. Barbara Lawson, interior designer and owner of…
Industrial chic: A balance of form and function
21 Feb 2023
With its unique blend of rugged and refined elements, the industrial chic design has gained popularity in recent years. With its roots in the factories and warehouses of the 19th…
Nature inspired ideas for your home
01 Feb 2023
Forests, mountains and desert sunsets are just some of the environments that have long been a source of inspiration for how we decorate our interiors. They connect us with our…
Keep your summer rolling: 6 wallpapers to keep you in the holiday mood
11 Jan 2023
If you’re back at work or already thinking about those imminent colder months ahead, do not fear, you can bring a bit of holiday escape into your home that can…
A coastal home with a creative neutral palette is renovated on time and under budget
19 Dec 2022
There’s a pocket on the eastern-most coast of Auckland where the weather is a law unto itself. Rain can be pummelling the farmland two kilometres away, while these coastal residents…
Finishing touches for your home this Christmas
14 Dec 2022
Like the star on top of a Christmas tree, it’s the finishing touches that make the difference at Christmas time.
You might have your Christmas tree up and some tinsel hanging,…
Home on the go: Saskia and Mike’s caravan for homecoming summers
14 Dec 2022
Saskia Thornton and Mike Eastwood spend most of their year in Amsterdam but when they come home to New Zealand they enjoy summer in the most Kiwi of ways.
The couple…
A landscape designer has found her peace in the gentle green space between bush and sea
19 Dec 2022
It’s impossible to count the many different shades of green that appear in Claire Talbot’s garden. It’s a kaleidoscope, the likes of which appear only on Resene colour charts. Painters…
Blushing with pride, interior stylist Amber Armitage has a modern take on classic Kiwi bach colours
01 Dec 2022
During the uncertainty of the pandemic, Amber Armitage knew one thing for certain when she saw a real estate listing for a home in Mangawhai - she had to buy…
A tranquil, green Christmas: Spread peace and joy with Resene Xanadu, Resene Rainee and Resene Forest Green
01 Dec 2022
Switch it up from red and gold this year and opt for a calming palette consisting entirely of greens, for a tranquil Christmas. For us here in the Southern Hemisphere,…
5 spring greens to refresh your home
09 Nov 2022
Much has been written about the versatility of green in interior decorating and design. Its reputation for versatility is well-earned. There’s a Resene green to suit to every person, every…
The winner of Tiny House of the Year is dark and delightful in Resene Half Nocturnal
02 Nov 2022
Small homes don’t need to be white and big design ideas definitely come in small packages. The winning design for New Zealand Tiny House of the Year 2022 is only…
Hours of hard yakka and DIY spirit transform a small 1950s home for a family of six
27 Oct 2022
When Kelly and Travis first put a formal offer in on a damp former rental home in Christchurch, they immediately got cold feet. Renovating the 1952 weatherboard and concrete tile…
Resene blues for every room – and blues for outdoors: 30+ blue paints you’ll adore
20 Oct 2022
When it comes to designing with colour, blue is one of the all-time classics. There is a blue to suit every taste, every mood and every broader colour scheme or…
Energy efficiency and smart living in the Bay of Plenty
12 Oct 2022
Nestled in a lush avocado orchard in the rural Bay of Plenty is a modern and energy efficient home with clever technology and Resene colour at its heart.
“We were…
Guest rooms to remember
13 Oct 2022
Creating a guest room that goes that little extra mile with thoughtful touches and considered design, helps ensure your guests feel completely welcome and at home while they’re staying.
It can…
This award-winning house design gets a thumbs up – Resene Thumbs up that is
06 Oct 2022
What do you do when your home of 40 years isn’t ticking your boxes anymore?
If you’re like homeowners Stewart and Tricia, you build your own boxes, and then start ticking…
Cottage-like charm of former state house brought to life with Resene neutrals
08 Sep 2022
The potential of this 1970s former state house in Wellington’s Hutt Valley was immediately obvious to Liam and Taylor Archibald when they first laid eyes on it in 2020. “When…
Invite the sun in and relax with resort-style interiors
01 Sep 2022
Although travel is once again in full swing and the lapping waters of foreign lands may be calling, why not consider a one-way trip to the tropics at home? Channel…
How bold Resene Surfs Up blue converted Melissa to become a colour-lover
01 Sep 2022
When Melissa’s six-year-old son Logan pointed to a bright cobalt blue and said, ‘that’s the new colour of my walls’, she wasn’t sure what to say. “He wanted a blue…
Channel moodiness with dark night-inspired interiors
24 Aug 2022
Give your home a dramatic touch with inky hues inspired by the night sky. Create a cosy and luxurious look this winter with on-trend colours like Resene Nocturnal and Resene…
Renovation masters Alice and Caleb at it again: A stunning Orewa home makeover
22 Aug 2022
Returning to the site of their first ever home renovation was both surreal and sentimental for DIY experts Alice and Caleb. “This is the first home we renovated and we…
Three’s The Block NZ: It’s living room time
18 Aug 2022
Emotions have been high this week on Three’s The Block NZ as teams are starting to feel the exhaustion and fatigue set in. The days have been long, prompting some…
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…
Become a special effects artist in your home: A beginner’s guide to limewashing, chalk paint and Resene FX Paint Effects medium
11 Aug 2022
You’d be surprised at the range of completely unique looks you can achieve with paint, from watercolour walls to faux stone finishes. It’s all possible with the Resene FX Paint…
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…
5 ways to embrace wallpaper for winter wellness
27 Jul 2022
The cold getting you down? Time to roll out Resene wallpaper! Let warm maroons, woodland patterns and foliage-dotted scenes transform your space. Wallpaper is one of the best investments you…
This home shows why you shouldn’t fear using edgy Resene Black on your walls
27 Jul 2022
Arna and Dave say when it comes to picking colours and styling a home, don’t overthink it. Choose what you love and you can’t go wrong. This meant bold and…
Five ways with wall panelling to jazz up any room
14 Jul 2022
The simple addition of wall panelling can transform a space, offering a classic look. Adding texture and height to a flat wall is a creative, on-trend way to refresh a…
Cosy wooden Wanaka home’s makeover in Resene neutrals inspired by the snowy landscape
13 Jul 2022
Enveloped by the mountains and sitting lakeside in Wanaka, Maggie and Lawrence’s home needed a colour palette to match their picturesque setting. Resene Foggy Grey and Resene Half Periglacial Blue…
Three slick new looks for your home with Marley Stratus Design Series® in Copper
06 Jul 2022
Sprucing up your home’s exterior? Marley Stratus Design Series® spouting and downpipes make for a sophisticated look when paired with Resene colours. Installing quality spouting and downpipes can save you…
Create a bedroom your child won’t grow out of
06 Jul 2022
While growth spurts might have you overhauling your child’s wardrobe each season, thankfully a well-designed bedroom doesn’t have to be outgrown quite so quickly. With a little inspiration from Resene,…
Leafy and floral wallpapers are in full bloom: Branch out with these 5 design ideas
23 Jun 2022
Leafy and floral motifs are a budding trend in the interior design world. Get a whiff of the great outdoors in your home with a new nature-inspired look from the…
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…
Travel-inspired interiors: 5 looks to transport you
16 Jun 2022
Who said you had to leave your home to gain all the glorious inspiration travel offers? Take a voyage across the globe by incorporating these travel-inspired Resene colours and wallpapers…
How colour affects your mood: 5 top paint colours to promote wellbeing
09 Jun 2022
If peering up at the sky, out across the water or down at fallen leaves offers you a sense of calm, why not bring this feeling indoors? In an instant,…
Get in shape: Five geometric wallpaper looks for your home
01 Jun 2022
There’s nothing that refreshes a space in a dramatic way quite like wallpaper. Contrast and character can spill into a room with the right wallpaper. Walls can come to life…
Know your blues: Eight dreamy blues to consider (and how to pick one for your home)
19 May 2022
There’s nothing that sets a mood in a room like blue does. An incredibly versatile colour, blue can be refreshing, tranquil or moody. Its numerous shades can work as a…
Check it out: Channel the checkerboard with these interior looks
12 May 2022
Checked patterns are by no means new in the design world, popular since the Renaissance period in Europe. But the classic staggered arrangement of contrasting squares has experienced a resurgence…
Inside a whimsical Nelson ‘Gingerbread House’ from the 1860s
12 May 2022
Gemma and Jeremy’s wee home in Nelson is packed with character – and characters. Flamingoes, parrots and flowers from the Resene Wallpaper Collection rub shoulders with Crown Lynn swans, vintage…
A California bungalow damaged in the Christchurch earthquakes, is now sitting pretty in Japandi-style soft neutrals
05 May 2022
Liesbeth and Ewout’s Californian bungalow built in 1934 once sat four kilometres down the road from its current location. The couple, originally from the Netherlands, bought the home when they…
Trend alert: Six colours we can’t get enough of right now
21 Apr 2022
Like trends in fashion, building design or music, our collective taste in colours is constantly evolving. Our fondness for certain colours is influenced by all sorts of external factors from pop…
Six satisfying home makeover jobs for the long weekend
14 Apr 2022
This longweekend is the perfect time to tackle a little home improvement. Give your home a glow up with Resene paint, there’s nothing more satisfying than standing back to admire…
Renovation of dilapidated villa is a master class in how to use neutral paint colours
13 Apr 2022
When Bridget and Tom bought their grand old villa on top of a sunny hill in Whanganui it was never intended to be their forever home. Instead, they planned to…
A travel-inspired terracotta family home with heart
07 Apr 2022
Helen and Phil’s Auckland home exudes life and warmth, so much so it almost wouldn’t surprise you to find a beating heart right in the middle of it. Collected treasures…
Get the Bridgerton look with these Regencycore inspired trends
24 Mar 2022
Whether you’ve delved into the TV genre of period dramas or not, Regency era interiors are all the rage and are here for us to take a little opulent inspiration…
An enchanting cottage garden with a cute-as-a-button Shepherd's Hut
03 Mar 2022
A cottage garden is a peculiar choice for a perfectionist. Puriri Lane Garden in Drury is like something from a fairy tale, with delicate blooms such as cosmos, nigella and…
This Arts and Crafts style home masters the use of Resene whites and neutrals
02 Mar 2022
It was the elegant character of its street frontage that made Malcolm and Gay fall in love with their house in Devonport on Auckland’s North Shore back in 2015. Using…
Which white is right?: How to choose the best Resene white or neutral for your home
24 Feb 2022
Did you know that among Resene’s top 20 most popular paint colours, 18 of them are variations of white.
White is one of the most versatile - and most commonly…
An 80s-build gets a colour injection with Resene Indian Ink and Resene Green Meets Blue in an interior designer’s own home
10 Feb 2022
Interior designer Carley Lloyd has a passion for colour – and in ten months she and husband Bryn have transformed a formerly beige 80s-build into a brand new look, with…
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…
Top stories for 2021: From Resene Duck Egg blue to Peter Wolfkamp’s cottage, these are some of our most-read stories this year
23 Dec 2021
Top stories for 2021: From Resene Duck Egg blue to Peter Wolfkamp’s cottage, these are some of our most-read stories this year
As the year ends, it’s time to take stock,…
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…
A city warehouse where home living, work and play are defined by colour
09 Dec 2021
Working at home is the trending topic of 2021 - and nothing suits business consultant Cath Vincent and music producer Aron Neale better than working in their own 1950s converted…
Get the most out of outdoor living with the colours of your favourite travel destinations
08 Dec 2021
An outdoor space is like having an extra room in your house, and with all the time spent at home lately, those lucky enough to have a patio or deck…
What a transformation: This charming 159-year-old Victorian cottage gets a peaceful modern makeover
18 Nov 2021
Tindalls Cottage in Berry was once the home of the town’s first mayor, James Wilson. But while it started its life in 1862 as the pride of the small village…
This Dairy Flat farmhouse features bold wallpapers and wonderful wood stains
11 Nov 2021
An empty paddock was the beginning of the build of a lifetime for couple Brad and Melissa. With several home builds under their belt, the couple decided to take matters…
Off the wall: Get creative with these ideas for fabulous floors and clever ceilings
04 Nov 2021
You’ll be floored by the results when you look beyond your four walls and start treating your floor and ceiling as part of your creative canvas. Consider the ceiling and…
Derelict to delightful: Resene Double Foundry and Marley Stratus give this bungalow timeless style
28 Oct 2021
This 1920s bungalow has had an adventurous life. With its handsome Resene Double Foundry exterior colour and matching Marley Stratus Design Series® spouting and downpipes in Grey Friars®, on first appearance…
Take it outside: Simple tips and tricks for painting the exterior of your home
27 Oct 2021
It’s a big, intimidating task, but painting your home’s exterior can instantly boost its resale value and has a huge effect on the way you feel about your home. First…
How to get the luxe look on a budget: Elegant Resene wallpapers and paint colours to try
21 Oct 2021
Three words come to mind when we think of the luxe look: stylish, sophisticated, expensive. But living in style doesn’t have to break the bank. With some nifty hacks and…
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…
White done right: Shades of white and green transform this 1930s bungalow
16 Sep 2021
Interior designer Litsa Jackson has a way with white. Ever since she began her interior design business, Inside Storey, she’s loved the way the perfect white can bring a space…
From bland to beautiful: This Christchurch couple filled their charcoal and pink bungalow with paintings, plants and peacefulness
02 Sep 2021
For self-confessed serial renovators Leigh and Cory, colour is everything. When the couple first bought their 1920s three-bedroom bungalow in Christchurch it was painted tip to toe in white. With…
Fight off the winter blues with these six warm Resene hues
19 Aug 2021
Even though the end of the cold weather is nearly in sight, it’s awfully hard to close your eyes and picture yourself soaking up the sun on a beach when you’re being stung by…
Elegant entrances, stairs, hallways & powder rooms from Three’s The Block NZ this week
11 Aug 2021
The skyscraper heights of the hallways were a tall order this week on Three’s The Block NZ as the teams raced to complete their entrances, stairs, hallways & powder rooms.…
Two Thumbs Up: This blue and yellow house captures the spirit of Wellington
11 Aug 2021
Walking into Ann and Matt’s Wellington home is like stepping into a giant version of the Wellington’s iconic Bucket Fountain. Playful and fun, the couple’s home makes a splash by…
Moving on in Merlin’s Requiem: Wallpapers star in this home renovation which celebrates singledom
05 Aug 2021
When Caroline’s partner of five years left there was only one thing to do; completely renovate her house. Caroline says she coloured herself happy using everything from hand-crafted Masons wallpaper…
7 kitchen designers share their top kitchen design tips and Resene colour choices
29 Jul 2021
We’ve rounded up some of the most drool-worthy kitchens and their talented designers to bring you a smorgasbord of advice to spice up your kitchen with colour. With a sprinkle…
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…
10 paint colours we’re obsessed with right now
05 Nov 2021
The hottest paint colours right now are both grounding and ground-breaking. The focus this season is on renewal and nurturing with colours that are going back to nature with interior…
A decade in the making: This 70s A-frame home’s Hamptons renovation was well worth the wait
07 Jul 2021
After a decade of living in her 70s Auckland home, Nicky Werder said bon voyage to boring and bought a ticket to happiness with fresh Resene paint. Nicky can travel…
48 hour bedroom updates that will transform your home
07 Jul 2021
Two days is all it takes to revive your bedroom with a lick of Resene paint and a whole new style. These bedroom upgrade ideas have a small budget and…
The castle on the hill: This Whangamata home has a modern take on family living, but what’s behind the dark exterior?
01 Jul 2021
Homeowners Sara and Brendon live life on the edge. They mountain bike along steep forest trails, surf the shoulders of Whangamata’s rolling waves, and live in a house that teeters…
A roomy rebuild in Onehunga is colour matched to the last detail with Marley and Resene
17 Jun 2021
When Louise and Eugene bought their home in Onehunga, Auckland in 2009 their four-bedroom house was squeezed into only 112 square metres. More than a decade and two kids later…
Goodbye white, hello colour: A daring blue/green and a dusky black transform this Oamaru home into a moody retreat
17 Jun 2021
Serial renovator and decorator Kaye was a Resene Black White devotee but her new home in Oamaru has seen her side-line her favourite white to embark on a brave new…
You wouldn’t know this oasis of calm is home to a family of seven – and a French bulldog called Frank
10 Jun 2021
Juggling five kids and a French bulldog called Frank while undergoing a renovation during a lockdown is no mean feat. When Rachel and Jarrad, who are parents to Milla (18),…
Six wonderful ways with wallpaper - PLUS a wallpaper evening in Nelson and Blenheim
10 Jun 2021
Wallpaper has made a glittering comeback in our homes over the years, from fabulous feature walls to magical murals. Whether you’re after a contemporary look or a casual atmosphere, Resene…
Off the wall: This 111-year-old villa gets a modern update with hand-painted wallpaper and zesty lime green
03 Jun 2021
Behind Ben and Helen Masters stately 1910 villa, painted in a restrained Resene Quarter Foggy Grey, lies a secret. Walking through the Resene Black front door lies a riot of…
Contemporary ideas to update your heritage home
20 May 2021
Modern colour palettes aren’t just for contemporary homes. Freshen up your villa or heritage home with on-trend colour combinations that are anything but old fashioned. Resene’s extensive range of interior…
Timber is the star of this Whitianga home, coloured to perfection in Resene wood stains
05 May 2021
Cove Construction’s Hollie and Nick Gill started their building journey with a bare plot of land and a big dream. Nick had always wanted to build an architectural house where…
Know your whites: 13 whites and neutrals to consider (and how to pick one for your home)
05 May 2021
When it comes to repainting your home, chances are your colour palette will include some off-whites – whether that’s just for the trims and joinery or tip to toe. But…
This artist’s Brisbane home is so colourful even the 85m fence is an elegant rainbow
28 Apr 2021
Artist and colour consultant Kelly Southee isn’t on the fence about using colour in her Brisbane home. Originally from Upper Hutt, Kelly’s new home on the outskirts of the Toohey…
Keep calm and paint it Duck Egg Blue: Six chic updates
14 Apr 2021
There’s no need to feel blue when it comes to repainting your home. Marie Antoinette didn’t when she covered her private boudoir in Versailles with the colour duck egg blue.…
A funeral assistant looks on the bright side of life using bold Resene Scrumptious and Resene Fizz in her home
14 Apr 2021
Often, the best things come to those who paint. This was certainly the case for Kirsten and Trevor, who have taken their time renovating their Nelson home with a vivid…
Ensure your roof choice will stand the test of time
30 Mar 2021
Whether you’re building new or repairing an existing home, you want to make sure that your roof a choice will not only look great but will also stand the test…
Colour experts paint a Napier villa with vibrant Resene blues and yellows - and a green/white you’ll fall in love with
08 Apr 2021
When homeowner Rachael wanted to update her 140-year-old villa in Napier’s Bluff Hill, she called in the pros. Vic Bibby and Dael Brady from Napier-based interior design firm, Bibby +…
From convent to luxury lodge: The heavenly transformation of The Marlborough
04 Mar 2021
The serene feeling in the luxury hotel, The Marlborough, comes from both its exquisite colour palette as well as the building's divine history. The lodge in Rapaura began its life as…
All Black Sir John Kirwan keeps it simple with black and white bach
25 Feb 2021
All Black legend Sir John Kirwan and his wife Fiorella have a long connection with Waihi Beach so when they came to creating their dream bach they wanted to get…
Beachside cottage bought online on an impulse receives a contemporary coastal refresh while retaining original bach style
25 Feb 2021
Spontaneous home buying is not for the faint of heart but when a worn down 1950s Glenbrook Beach bach popped into her inbox it was love at first click-of-the-mouse for…
Six dining rooms that will make each meal a family celebration
18 Feb 2021
The saying may be 'home is where the heart is' but really, it's the dining room specifically that is often the beating heart of a family home. It's where we…
A 1990s home gets a nature-inspired refresh using Resene Merino and bold blues and greens
10 Feb 2021
Kitchen and interior designer Karen Warner is used to coming up with colour schemes for her clients, but she found it harder to create a brief when it came to…
7 unbelievable reader house exterior makeovers – plus house exterior painting tips
11 Feb 2021
This Christchurch home has new street appeal with a fresh coat of Resene Element and zesty Resene Hot Toddy on the garage door
7 unbelievable reader house exterior makeovers – plus…
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…
Four easy-peasy colour blocking bedroom ideas from Resene Living
20 Jan 2021
The Astra Alabaster duvet set from the Resene Living range is a handsome neutral duvet set designed to work with Resene paint colours. The neutral design allows you to be…
Minor changes that make a big impact: Ways to improve a rental property using paint
20 Jan 2021
Painting walls and furniture are two minor changes you can make to rental properties. When painting walls seek written permission from a landlord. The green wall block is painted in…
Spring to it: Six ways to decorate your deck and make the most of outdoor living
04 Oct 2021
Decks are a transformative part of the home. Not only do they instantly extend your living area, but there's nothing better than enjoying a crisp spring day or long summer…
Exterior inspiration: Patio perfection in a 1930s bungalow
16 Dec 2020
Old world charm and colourful contemporary character meet at Rachel and Steven’s 1930s Auckland bungalow, which they share with their two children, Elias and Ivy. While open plan living may…
Going coastal: How to create the laid-back beachy bach look using blues and whites
17 Dec 2020
There’s nothing like getting away from it all to shed the stresses of everyday life. A change of scene with a vacation at a bach, crib or holiday house creates…
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 Canterbury artist chooses punchy pastels and sunny-day blues to give her family’s old-school villa a fresh, modern twist.
09 Dec 2020
Old-school character was top of the list when Libby Chambers and her husband Aaron went searching for a new home. They moved into a 120-year-old villa seven years ago just…
7+ ideas for creating an outdoor space that’s great for guests and entertaining
08 Dec 2020
As the temperature rises so too does the demand for parties and social gatherings.
By using a few fundamental design principles, you can transform your outdoor space into an area that’s…
Georgian-style heritage home gets a light and breezy refresh with Resene Double Sea Fog
02 Dec 2020
When it comes to an expensive lunch in the Hunter Valley Scott Bentley and his partner Guy may hold the record. However, it wasn’t an expensive shiraz which blew the…
How to pick the right colour for your new roof
03 Nov 2020
How to pick the right colour for your new roof
If you’re living under a quality, well-constructed roof, chances are you don’t give it much thought day-to-day. It’s only when…
Is it time for a fence refresh? 6 ways that paint can elevate your home’s fencing and exterior
26 Nov 2020
Is it time for a fence refresh? 6 ways that paint can elevate your home’s fencing and exterior
First impressions count. Refreshing a fence with Resene paints or wood stains gives the whole house and…
Try these home office ideas for a stylish working nook
18 Nov 2020
The adage ‘dress for success’ is also true of office nooks. Having a work space at home that’s organised and conducive to your practice, projects and thought processes is a…
5 summer looks that prove green and pink are simply heavenly
21 Oct 2020
Positioned diagonally across from one another on the colour wheel, pink and green are outright opposites. Combined, they’re a recipe for maximum contrast, and with the right Resene shades, can…
Easy ways to reclaim the old as new and incorporate upcycling into your décor
23 Sep 2020
With the shared responsibility of environmentalism becoming mainstream these days, the interest in sustainable furniture and décor has skyrocketed. Not only are production methods evolving, helping to reduce the waste…
5 ways to bring Scandi style home, downunder
16 Sep 2020
We may be half a world away, but Scandinavian style feels right at home to many of us. In fact, the tell-tale markers of Scandi-inspired design - think warm and…
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…
Try these on trend hues to paint your space with positivity
26 Aug 2020
With many of our best laid plans long since out the window, we’ve hunkered down at home and rediscovered a love for making the most of what we have. From…
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…
The perfect kitchen island: where form and function meet
05 Aug 2020
If you're planning a kitchen renovation or are in the process of designing a new home, you'll probably be thinking about incorporating a kitchen island. The ultimate multi-tasking space, a…
10 unique ways to enliven your floors with paint
29 Jul 2020
When it comes to floors, we often forget that a paintbrush is a great option for giving them a colourful refresh. Much like your walls, your ‘sixth wall’ – the floor…
See how this 120-year-old Wellington villa finally got the renovation it deserved
08 Jun 2020
When Hannah and Tim first set eyes on, what was at the time, the worst house on one of Wellington’s most well-known streets, they knew they could restore it to…
Get your backyard ready for winter with these expert top tips
04 Jun 2020
The end of spring marks the beginning of a trying time for homeowners. Thanks to our favourable climate, many of us don’t have to worry about the ground freezing or…
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…
Jane and Pim reawaken a beauty in this Waiuku farmhouse
28 May 2020
With broken weatherboards, asbestos in the kitchen linoleum and a long list of other fixes, this century old farmhouse needed major commitment from its homeowners Jane and Pim to bring…
Paul and Sheree didn’t let distance stop their rejuvenation of this Mount Eden villa
13 May 2020
Paul, a Chartered Accountant who now runs his own consulting firm, 5th Green, and Sheree, a legal contractor, spent 15 years living and working in London before returning to New…
Laura and Jarred bring a colour boost to this beautiful Californian bungalow
06 May 2020
With gorgeous colonial features, a rambling backyard and plenty of interior space on offer, it’s no wonder Laura and Jarred Hedwig fell in love with this 1920s Californian-style bungalow when…
Selena and Mike give this Lake Taupo cottage a charming reno
29 Apr 2020
With a light, bright interior painted in Resene Alabaster, oodles of character and views of Lake Taupo, this newly renovated cottage is a homeowner’s dream – but it wasn’t always…
11 decadent living room looks that will convince you to indulge in colour
29 Apr 2020
Ever walked into a living room that’s left you green with envy, one that exudes richness and a sense of luxury? Well, we have good news – bringing that same…
Emma and Peter’s beautiful bungalow reno well worth the wait
15 Apr 2020
In late 2007, needing more space for their growing family, Emma and Peter purchased an arts and crafts bungalow in Auckland’s Mt Albert neighbourhood. “Even though the house needed work,…
Take the texture of your walls up a notch
01 Apr 2020
If you’ve been looking at your space lately and yearning for something to take it to the next level beyond a dazzling paint colour or bold art piece, there are…
Red - the colour of passion
21 Jun 2012
Hi, welcome to the new-look Habitat of the Week. I’m Sharon Newey, the editor of this and Habitat magazine, both showcasing gorgeous Resene colour. We’ll still be bringing you superb…
The not-so-naked truth about painted furniture
26 Aug 2015
Bored of naked furniture? Does the timber look not fit your style? Just paint it. Painted furniture is the new craze and is borne of a convergence of various current trends:
1. The vintage…
Decadent, delicious… dining spaces
22 May 2014
Dining room, dining space or just a dining table? Many of us don’t have the first, and even if we do have a dedicated dining room, we will often have…
Danny and Lisa’s age-appropriate reno
20 May 2014
Making sure a gorgeous Edwardian villa was given age-appropriate interior colours without ending up looking like a museum was a challenge taken on by homeowners Lisa and Danny… with some…
The power of purple
09 Jul 2014
Purple is one of those colours that we can't seem to get enough of. Other on-trend colours swirl about our interiors while purple, and its quieter sidekick mauve, may wax and wane… but…
How to fake it
31 Aug 2015
Faking it… in a good way. It’s easy to do if you want a wall that looks like stone, but isn’t stone. Or a floor that looks like timber, but…
These are two lucky kids
21 Aug 2014
The kids were in for a treat when parents Carrie and Bryn Plimmer inherited money from a relative – both getting a colourful bedroom makeover and a fun playroom to…
Let nature lead you
24 Sep 2014
Many successful interior colour schemes take nature as their inspiration, and in a country such as this where we have such abundant and interesting natural settings, why not? If it…
Grey and indigo: the new deep neutrals
18 Sep 2014
You could say that grey is the new black but in fact, it’s the new dark espresso brown. While dark toasty brown-blacks are still a great choice for many interiors,…
An unlikely colour combo
26 Aug 2015
Yellow is one of the colour accents of the moment, sizzling out of accessories, interiors and on feature pieces like painted walls and furniture. The latest Resene fandeck is rich…
Six easy paint ideas
15 Oct 2014
It’s amazing what you can do with a small amount of paint and a bit of inspiration. Take a look at some of these clever projects to get you inspired:
Summer…
Ann and Noel mix soft with hard
30 Oct 2014
A careful blend of quiet Resene colours to sit alongside the raw beauty of plywood and concrete has resulted in a stunning home that responds to its wind-swept Wairarapa setting.
When…
Lolly scramble: using bright colour
01 Oct 2016
It’s the season of unashamedly bright colours. Last year, interior fashion dipped its toe into crisp gelato-style colours but this year those icy tones have become bolder, brasher and brighter.
Sunny…
2 living looks: Sandra and Nicola’s designer spaces
04 Dec 2014
The living area is the hub of any home – it’s where we spend most of our time and the place our visitors see. The style of this important space…
Discover your style
11 Dec 2014
Many of us struggle to decide what style of interior we like and want to live with. It’s the reason interior magazines are so popular as we pore over the…
Wonderful ways with wallpaper
27 Nov 2014
It’s no great revelation that wallpaper has become a go-to component of modern interiors. There is so much choice available in the Resene ColorShop wallpaper library, and in colour and pattern, from…
Peter and Kathy’s contemporary cool bungalow
18 Mar 2015
After earthquake damage left their Richmond Hill home unsafe, Christchurch couple Peter and Kathy didn’t abandon the area, choosing to build anew in Sumner. It’s here where they now live…
Trend spotting for 2015
21 Jan 2015
While we might go by the strict confines of a calendar year, other processes ebb and flow with much less regard to particular blocks of time. So while we can…
Be inspired by nature
15 Jan 2015
Summer’s the perfect time to get in touch with life beyond the walls of our house – a walk on the beach or through the bush, a dip in the…
Rennee and Bryan's born-again kitchen
18 Mar 2015
With a lot of elbow grease, a huge dollop of imagination and some old 1940s cabinets, Rennee and Bryan Lawrence have not only created a kitchen on a ‘zero’ budget…
Hallway decorating tricks
26 Feb 2015
It may be a lot smaller than a conventional room, but the hallway and entrance of your home is just as important as any other space in the house.
An entranceway…
Where eco meets zen
10 May 2015
When it comes to bathrooms, nothing beats a fresh scheme that’s simple and relaxing. Because bathrooms are generally small spaces, it’s good to choose a style that allows you to…
Michele and James go bright but earthy
05 Mar 2015
Michele Powles and James Winton’s basic 1950s bungalow was in a sad state. Its skin was peeling and its tongue hanging out, but with a good drink of Resene paint,…
1 living room, 3 looks
02 Apr 2015
Jan Warburton’s Wanaka home, which features in our Autumn/Winter 2015 issue (available to read here), is a bold mix of bright and neutral colours and grunty textures.
As we do every issue, we…
Megan and Gordon embrace the lifestyle
16 Apr 2015
Highland cows, chicks, bees, a kunekune pig, cats, dogs… oh, and a special spot for mother-in-law Noeline. A marriage of stylish Customkit home and Resene paint gave Megan Ashe and…
Create an exciting exterior
23 Apr 2015
As with many things, house exteriors are subject to changing tastes and fashions. Unlike the inside of your house, however, repainting the outside of your house is a lot more…
For your own baby prince or princess
04 Jun 2015
Do you have your own little royal on the way? A future prince or princess of your family? Before you go decking out the new nursery in red, white and…
Two small living successes
02 Apr 2015
As the small home movement gathers momentum, habitat by Resene looks at two projects that answer the call, and use Resene paint to great effect. Read more with our feature on colour tips…
Vintage kitchens keep it real
25 Jun 2015
Hands up who’s a bit bored of sleek integrated all-white kitchens? They may be great for minimalist architectural interiors or for people who have the time and inclination to keep…
Loveable living rooms
18 Aug 2015
There are many good reasons why many of us stick to neutral Resene paint colours for our living spaces. These rooms are often quite visually busy with different pieces of…
Sarah and Brian’s retro revival
18 Jun 2015
Starting with a tight budget and a passion for Resene Wasabi, a sharp green, Sarah and Brian have given their 1970s home the retro revival it deserves.
How did the project…
Rachael and Ben turn yuck into yum
20 Jun 2015
It was ‘hate at first sight’ when Ben and Rachael Shadbolt bought their Wellington house 10 years ago. But now, washed in a soothing palette of Resene classic neutrals, love…
Good looking... and clever
01 Jan 2015
Resene paints are certainly known for their good looks and high quality. But aside from the startling array of colours and the regular fashion colours fandeck launches, Resene also has…
Colour's fashion fusion
01 Apr 2015
The Resene NZ Fashion Tech Colour of Fashion collection is bringing Resene fashion colours to life on the runway at New Zealand Fashion Week for the second year, while also giving…
5 key interior trends
16 Sep 2015
Interior designer Nicola Manning was invited to gaze into the crystal ball of trend forecasting when she attended this year’s Décor + Design show in Melbourne.
Forecasting company Scarlet Opus shared…
Keeping it coastal – Lisa and Scott's winning interiors
10 Dec 2015
Think about the feelings you get on a sky-blue day by the sea... watching those calming hues and changing colours along the coast, as the sunshine bounces off the ocean.
Inspired by…
Let’s lead you up the garden path – beautiful outdoor looks
31 Dec 2015
What is it about our psyche that as soon as we have a higher-than-18-degrees sunny day, we look out the window and think: “Got to get the garden sorted.”
During winter…
Bedrooms: go bold or stay neutral?
11 Dec 2015
Whatever your style, there’s a bedroom colour and theme that definitely won’t send you to sleep.
We gave stylist LeeAnn Yare the challenge of coming up with two distinct looks using…
Michelle and Andrew show some vision
07 Dec 2015
Let’s be up-front and honest – this house is a show home. Surprised? So were we when we saw it. The assumptions we carry about show homes is that they…
Two super stylish gardens
31 Dec 2015
Gary and Phil’s sensational sizzling garden
Indoor/outdoor flow – it’s the catch-cry of every real estate advert and something we’re all told we should strive for.
One Auckland architect and his partner…
Glenn and Mandy reclaim the bach vibe
11 Jan 2016
When Glenn and Mandy got together with their architects to plan their Taupo bach rebuild, it was a meeting of creative minds. The result is a beautifully detailed dwelling, and…
Weaving colour and pattern
27 Jan 2016
This summer's fabrics from James Dunlop Textiles are all about making a statement, with fresh, vibrant designs sorted into themed collections.
To showcase the collections, merchandising manager Celia Faris captured the…
Trending: tonal freehand murals
09 Mar 2016
This cool hill mural is not as hard as it looks. For a start, it’s done freehand, which means that if you make small mistakes, it doesn’t matter. Who’s going…
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…
Sharon and Grant’s modern villa success
12 May 2016
Hardly a week goes by when someone doesn’t knock on the door of the McDonald home and ask what colour it’s painted. It’s Resene Half Napa, a colour that beautifully…
Colour up to your new homewares
17 Apr 2016
Our latest shopping spree found that this season’s homewares have kept a bit of lightness in their looks – blush, copper and naturals are still shining bright. Or if you…
Form meets colour
26 May 2016
When local furniture manufacturer Platform 10 wanted to showcase their new ranges, stylist Amber Armitage turned to Resene colour to help highlight the furniture’s contemporary lines and versatile good looks.
5 top winter colours for 2016
20 May 2016
This season’s top colours for winter are a mix of deep rich tones, as well as those with a distinct hippy retro vibe. All are rich, some are dark –…
Jessica goes simple and sophisticated
16 Jun 2016
When Jessica Cameron bought an earthquake-damaged home in Christchurch, it couldn’t be touched for two years while insurance claims were settled. Haunted by butter yellow walls and a green kitchen,…
Timber: treat it right
21 Jul 2016
Ply, planking, slats and veneers in any depth of colour… timber has a certain feel that can’t be replicated. It has always featured in older character homes, was a darling…
6 paint trends that just keep on going
17 Jun 2016
1. Resene Black White
There’s something about this colour that homeowners love. The answer is possibly in the Resene description of the colour: ‘a calcite grey white, chalky and soft’. Despite…
Traci and Nick’s sensational colour collision
20 Jul 2016
“I don’t do neutral. I love colour.” Traci Stanbury’s new house certainly supports that declaration, resplendent as it is in bold Resene colour. She and husband Nick bought their dream…
Mark’s team transforms a muddled 80s house
14 Jul 2016
This was a home of two halves. On the inside, the muddled and fragmented layout meant you walked straight into the living room, and the dining room blocked access to…
Colin and Wendy find purity in white
30 Jul 2016
When Colin and Wendy planned a house to replace their old 1950s Mangawhai Heads bach, they had a very clear vision from the outset. The new house would be pure…
1 fireplace, 3 ways
31 May 2016
Fireplaces were lost in the decorative wilderness for a while as we struggled with efficiency, fuel types and visual appeal.
Closed wood burners and mock electric fires had a particular look…
Resene's new fashion range
22 Sep 2016
This week sees the launch of the Resene The Range fashion colours 18, with even more on-trend paint colours to love – the brand new fandeck brings a collection of 95 new shades and current…
Trending: calming spring bedrooms
09 Sep 2016
The trend for all-white bedrooms is everywhere you look and a dream come true for minimalists the world over. But for those looking for something with bit more of a twist, there…
Trending: romantic interlude
20 Oct 2016
Feeling ready to switch up your bedroom decor? With summer fast approaching we're drawn to this bedroom transformation, styled by Megan Harrison-Turner with Resene paint, from winter luxe to soft, cool and romantic.... ready…
Cam and Deb turn basic into beautiful
29 Sep 2016
When Cam and Deb first bought their 1950s bungalow, it was tired, basic and awash with creamy apricot. They were lucky enough to purchase a house that had good solid…
6 dreamy ideas for outdoor living
16 Nov 2016
Gone are the days of boring outdoor styling. Instead, there are a thousand and one ideas to spice up your backyards, decks, patio areas... And these inspiring outdoor looks, livened…
Phil and Yvonne’s modestly beautiful new build
27 Oct 2016
When Phil and Yvonne Dorn faced their new build project, they knew what they didn’t want. They felt that many modern homes were too big, lacked character, were too minimalist…
Wallpaper trends: the weird and wonderful
21 Nov 2016
Wallpaper designer Dave Abbotts takes us on a journey of current wallpaper trends.
If you look at the current landscape of wallpaper trends, the term “whatever” is apt. There are now…
Decorating a bach
29 Nov 2016
Will your bach be a sea of appropriately themed accessories and colours? Will it be chaotic collection of handy-me-down bits and bobs? Or will it be somewhere in between –…
Is Scandi still in style?
01 Feb 2017
The short answer is yes. With its misty white walls, timber accents, hints of rustic elegance and monochromatic good looks, this is a style that will stay around for a…
3 favourite colours
15 Mar 2017
We asked three Resene colour experts to pick their favourite colours from the Resene The Fashion Range 18 fandeck, with insights to colour trends for the home.
What did we learn? Strong greens…
The rise of the reading nook
23 Mar 2017
Has open-plan living had its day? Some commentators would say so, or at least point to the increasing desire for smaller, personalised spaces.
While we might still have an open-plan kitchen…
Kim and Isaac go big with colour
31 Mar 2017
While Kim Brebner can appreciate a neutral colour scheme in other people's homes, it's simply not for her. And so when it came to repainting her own, she went big and bold with…
Sally’s secret walled garden hideaway
13 Apr 2017
When well-known garden photographer Sally Tagg was deciding on the right colour for her walled garden and home exterior, it’s no surprise that she saw it with an artist’s eye.…
Get our cover look
11 Apr 2017
You'll recognise this exquisite living room from the cover of our latest issue... painted in beautiful jewel tones, it also features a stunning floral print cleverly created using wallpaper from Resene ColorShops.
For this look, stylist…
Daringly dark house exteriors
04 May 2017
There’s something about a dark house exterior that seems to connect with us. Maybe it looks more grounded, stronger and more distinctive, or just out-and-out eye-catching.
A dark exterior paint job…
2 rooms, 4 designer looks
17 Aug 2017
Ever looked at a room in your home, and wondered what it would look like with a completely new colour scheme and furnishings? In every issue of habitat, we ask designers to create…
Julia and Alastair say yes to French romance
04 May 2017
Earthy Resene Double Grey Olive walls, dark chocolate oak floors and ceiling roses... you'd be forgiven for thinking Julia and Alastair's home is from a much earlier decade.
When the couple sold their previous…
On trend: green walls and wood stains
19 Apr 2017
Combining swampy green walls with stained timber doesn't often evoke a space with an architectural sensibility. But in this case, that's exactly what's going on... in an artsy retro way…
Dare to go dark
25 May 2017
Look, we get it. Even the thought of painting the bedroom walls a dark hue feels risky. But when applied correctly, dark walls can make a room look moody and becoming... which is exactly what's…
Lee and Kristin bring their modern barn to life
06 Jul 2017
After living in a renovated state house with small wardrobes and cupboards, Kristin Turner’s wish for her new home was to have open plan living, and the ability to see her daughters play outside from…
Which Resene white to choose: Find the right white paint for your home
29 Jun 2017
Alabaster, chalk, ivory, cream… which is which? There are so many wonderful Resene whites to choose from.
All whites are not created equal… and that’s particularly true with paint colour.…
Turn your home from brr to brilliant
27 Jul 2017
Winter is well and truly upon us... and if you're feeling less than cosy in your home, it may be time for a few interior touch-ups. Changing your home from brrr to…
Donna does it for the art
27 Jul 2017
Located in Seatoun, Wellington, with incredible seaviews and an envious art collection, Donna Cross’s home / art-gallery is special in more ways than one.
The illustrator and graphic designer turned her home…
Colour on the catwalk
16 Aug 2017
Sixteen key looks, 80 metres of silk, Resene's latest fashion colours... this New Zealand Fashion Week, a colourful parade of beautiful designs will hit the catwalk as part of the Resene Designer…
Anna and Ren double down on green
03 Aug 2017
When Anna and Ren built their sustainable home in Queenstown, they went green in more ways than one... installing vibrant green cabinetry in the kitchen, and using one of Anna's favourite colour…
5 paint effects to try right now
03 Aug 2017
In the latest habitat plus booklet, we look at paint effects techniques commonly used, updated using Resene paint and product. From French wash to crackle, woodgrain to marbling, there are so many…
Walls that wow: 2 ideas 4 ways
26 Sep 2017
We’re all looking for ways to make a statement, add some individuality to our interiors, and be a bit different from everyone else.
So, we set a challenge for stylist Megan…
Steve's sad to stunning bungalow makeover
21 Sep 2017
When Steve bought this 1920s bungalow seven years ago, it had seen a fair few renovations through its life time. The most recent was a glasshouse extension built in the…
Jo and Jeremy swap beige with beautiful
14 Sep 2017
Out with the beige. This was the mantra of Jo and Jeremy when renovating their Hamilton villa, painting over the beige walls inside their home with modern, hint-of-pink Resene neutrals – from soft blush Resene Just Right…
Trends: hot looks for the year ahead
07 Sep 2017
Any decorating trend doesn’t occupy a moment, a month or even a year in time.
We get used to seeing fashion trends come and go with the seasons – it’s fitted…
Get our beachy bedroom cover look
02 Nov 2017
Beach brights, watery blues, honey yellows... the cover of our latest issue is all about celebrating the look of summer. We bring the best of the sunny season indoors with this stunning…
Anna and Andrew bring beach style to the big city
26 Oct 2017
When it came to renovating their 1940s home, Anna and Andrew were drawn to a beach-house meets city-living look. Living so close to Auckland beaches, they spent a lot of…
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…
Louise gives her garden the magic touch
16 Nov 2017
When landscape designer Louise Dunning purchased this North Auckland home, the well-established yet tired garden that came with it was a welcome challenge.
Louise, who owns landscaping design business Noble Fox, put her green fingers to work, transforming…
Warren and Heather's small reno makes big impact
29 Nov 2017
A cosy 100 square metres with a generous backyard, this bungalow was the perfect size for Warren, Heather and their young family when they bought it 10 years ago. But as the kids…
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…
Bold outlook
14 Feb 2018
Love home exteriors with a bit of oomph? These homes are no wall flowers, painted and stained in bold Resene colours – they might even inspire you to go down…
Cameron brings the wow factor in green
15 Feb 2018
When Cameron Grindlay of Dwelling Architectural Design was asked to design this new build in Dunedin, he immediately knew that it needed to stand out – hence the slices of…
To paint or paper?
01 Feb 2018
Not so long ago if anyone had suggested you wallpaper your walls, you would have thought they were mad. Wallpaper was an old-fashioned concept best left to those who had…
Jane and Rory bring modern earthiness to their reno
01 Feb 2018
After the Canterbury earthquakes left their house damaged, Jane and Rory were 50/50 on whether to renovate or rebuild their 1929 bungalow.
The Christchurch couple chose to keep their old house…
The wabi sabi way
15 Mar 2018
First there was hygge, now there is wabi sabi. It’s time to start speaking a different language if you want to understand the latest philosophies behind global decorating.
While the Danish…
What a difference a door makes
01 Mar 2018
Such practical household fixtures – doors. They plug the person-sized hole, keep out the weather, and inside they keep out the noise and give privacy.
Just because they are practical doesn’t…
Jamie and Harriet find the perfect white
29 Mar 2018
When Harriet Booth saw how beautiful Resene Merino looked on the walls of her sister’s house, she knew that this was it… the perfect white for her home.
Harriet and her…
Joanne and Chris bring beachy brights to their B&B
10 May 2018
With orange as her happy colour, it’s no surprise to see it feature throughout Joanne’s home – from a beautiful barn door painted in Resene Tangerine to splashes of orange…
Dean and Delia’s delightful blue cottage by the sea
19 Apr 2018
What was once a modest bach in a seaside East Auckland suburb is now an eye-catching beauty, painted in an array of Resene coastal colours.
As its been told to homeowners…
Seasonal switch-outs: 1 colour 4 ways
24 May 2018
Some paint colours are just made for flexibility. White is one of them, and black and charcoal are others. We took Resene Nocturnal, a black-charcoal, and teamed it with other Resene…
More vs less – which one are you?
16 May 2018
Are you a minimalist? Or a maximalist? Take a look at these different versions of the same room – which one appeals to you most?
We took one room and had…
Blair and Becs go Scandi and stylish
17 May 2018
Husband and wife team Blair and Becs McDonald seem to have found the perfect formula for creating beautiful homes, completing several successful building projects over the years through their Palmerston…
Fiona’s exquisitely detailed homage to heritage
28 Jun 2018
So often older homes are given a millennium makeover with rooms opened up for open-plan living, a modern kitchen… and then we paint it all white.
Not so for Fiona Saville…
Corrine and Emanuel’s bungalow goes bold with colour
27 Jun 2018
At first glimpse, Corrine and Emanuel’s Wellington home, freshened up in Resene Eighth Friar Grey, looks like another neutral-infused bungalow. Take a second look and the yellow letter box and…
Off the wall decorating ideas
21 Jun 2018
In a decorating slump? Wanting to get stuck into a new project for the home? If the ideas are running dry, these five easy decorating projects will get the fire…
David and Robin’s eye-catching style – what a reaction!
26 Jul 2018
Such is the beauty of this Christchurch home’s exterior, that strangers leave notes in the letterbox exclaiming how much they love the colour. With a front door in lively orange…
Bob’s award winning ultra efficient 'superhome'
09 Aug 2018
With a contemporary design and walls freshly painted in Resene Black White, this Christchurch home is already full of appeal. But its seamless looks hide a wonderful secret – it’s…
Stuart and Tracey’s stunning light-flooded home
06 Sep 2018
When Stuart and Tracey were making over their transitional villa in Devonport, Auckland, they turned to layers of Resene whites and neutrals to preserve the building’s character while creating a…
Work that kerb appeal
20 Sep 2018
Much is made of the importance of street appeal when it comes to selling your house. That’s all well and good, but there’s nothing wrong with having a home that…
Jenny and Peter river-inspired heritage masterpiece
20 Sep 2018
Jenny and Peter Brown have renovated plenty of houses over the years but their commitment to keeping true to the essence and original style of their Whanganui B&B made this…
On trend: warm white 3 ways
25 Oct 2018
It’s been a classic of the home decorating for as long as most of us remember – Resene Spanish White. Along with its close cousin, Resene Pearl Lusta, it’s been…
Marcelle and Simon’s colour-lover’s villa
18 Oct 2018
When advertising executive Marcelle Baker came to designing the interior of her renovated, century-old villa in Onehunga, Auckland, colour was key in the form of a bold Resene palette. “I…
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: Peach to pomegranate
22 Nov 2018
Shades of pink and wine are always among current design trends, but there is a whole spectrum of shades within those two colours that allow for endless design options. So…
Sheryl and Kevin’s bright and eclectic Tudor transformation
10 Jan 2019
After their kids left home, Sheryl and Kevin Mace were ready to downsize and looking for a change. When they stumbled upon this early 90s Tudor-style house in Waikato, Sheryl…
Tim and Angela renovate from woodsy to coastal
20 Dec 2018
Many of us dream of living the bach holiday lifestyle all year round, but few of us have the opportunity to actually do so. Tim and Angela Kinnersley are the…
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…
A sophisticated slate bedroom gets a tropical twist
24 Jan 2019
When you think about a traditional tropical interior, it often evokes images of green palm leaves, pink flamingos and light-coloured cane furniture in bright sun-drenched rooms. This colour scheme –…
These extra bright ideas will have your garden glowing
28 Feb 2019
With a few pebbles and some timber off-cuts, you can take these three DIYs outside to brighten up your yard.
Get your glow on
By day, this cute planter filled with succulents…
Adam’s modernised mid-mod in Napier lets the art speak for itself
28 Feb 2019
Adam Harris, Graphic Designer and Managing Director for NZ Digital, bought this sunny 1950s brick and tile home in 2014.
Set on a completely flat section atop Napier’s Bluff Hill, the…
Lisa calls in the colour pros for a refined revival
14 Feb 2019
After doing some research on Sunday drives, Lisa knew that she wanted to go grey to update the exterior of her 1947 Wellington home. The tricky part was deciding which…
The return of rattan
14 Feb 2019
For some, the love of rattan was left in the 70s. In the world of interior trends though, it’s back – and in a big way. And we’re seeing stylists…
On trend: getting in touch with nature
13 Mar 2019
There are few trends as hot right now as ones based on earthy, natural looks.
Woven natural textures – especially in fibres like sisal, rattan and jute – are everywhere, along…
On trend: wild things
03 Apr 2019
Our instincts are telling us animal looks are making a strong resurgence, but without the tackiness of the over-the-top schemes that were put out to pasture in the mid-90s.
Today’s looks…
Throw a bonbon-themed birthday bash
23 May 2019
Each child looks forward to their birthday celebration all year long, and every parent wants to do what they can to make it memorable. However, throwing a party to commemorate…
Hana and Samuel make space for six
23 May 2019
Artist Hana Carpenter and her husband Samuel, a historian, live in Lower Hutt, Wellington. Like many houses in the area, theirs was a three-bedroom 1940s weatherboard at the front of…
On trend: moody blues
20 Jun 2019
Midnight and navy blues that look like they came straight out of Mariana Trench are making some serious waves in the design world. Today’s on-trend tones range from deep darks…
Kay’s whimsical wallpapered Morrinsville home
19 Jun 2019
For Kay, building her first home was a life-long dream. With the help of her architectural designer son and builder friend, she was able to turn that dream into a reality,…
A simple palette looks superb in this Cambridge showhome
05 Jun 2019
Those on the lookout for a new place to call home in the Cambridge region will be pleased to learn that Sentinel Homes has just opened a brand new showhome…
Sharon crafts a colourful haven for two
04 Jul 2019
Sharon Skylark loves colour. If she had to choose a favourite, it would be red, but then it could also be turquoise, or pink. “Turquoise goes with everything,” she says.
Her…
The dream of the 80s is alive in these four throwback rooms
26 Jun 2019
The 80s heralded a raft of brave new styles full of glitz, glam and electropop hues. Though the economic times that inspired those trends have changed, a revival of bold…
4 ways you can use colour to create more visual space
08 Aug 2019
When it comes to decorating, the primary goal should always be to make the most out of what you have to work with. Sometimes, you might be lucky enough to…
Flint & Celia’s subtropical outdoor living space in Hawke’s Bay
28 Aug 2019
When Flint and Celia Collinson built their home in Hawke's Bay, they approached the project with a unique point of view, working their design from back to front. With plans…
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…
Colour lessons from a showhome
02 Oct 2019
How many times have you looked at photographs of a showhome and sighed with envy? They always look so, well, perfect. Not to mention tidy with none of the detritus…
Beachy looks to bring to your bach
16 Oct 2019
Summer is just around the corner so now’s the ideal time to get your bach ready before you get bogged down by the pre-Christmas rush. And if you don’t have…
Mia and David’s award-winning modern Kiwi-meets-Scandi-chic Canterbury home
20 Nov 2019
After their Christchurch home was devasted by the February 2011 earthquakes, Mia and David were forced to start again from scratch. Originally from Sweden, Mia was naturally partial to bringing…
You won’t believe what this home looks like now
16 Jan 2020
Situated at the end of a lovely cul de sac in Hamilton, not far from the river, Lisa’s home is a standard Huntly brick bungalow. Built in the 1980s, the…
Philip and Jane’s glamorous villa looks pretty in pink
04 Mar 2020
While it may have served previous life as a modest bungalow, Philip and Jane’s 1920s Auckland home has since seen a complete transformation into the bold and modern multi-level stand…
5 ways to use colour to define your desk space
18 Mar 2020
Whether you’re lucky enough to have a home office all to yourself or have to fit your desk into an existing space, it’s important to clearly define your working environment…
A pair of heritage bathrooms clean up nicely
11 Mar 2020
Renovating a heritage bathroom is a behemoth of an undertaking. But when done right, it’s also a truly rewarding experience. It’s the kind of project which requires that perfect meeting…
