Meet the team – TJ Lee, Resene Architectural & Specifier Services Representative

17 Feb 2026

TJ Lee, architectural specifier representative based in Auckland, specialises in paint specification, project support and colour consultancy. Background is Resene Friar Greystone.

As part of its commitment to serving industry professionals, Resene has a network of experts across New Zealand and Australia whose job is to provide a comprehensive range of paint specification and colour services tailored specifically for architects and designers. TJ Lee is part of the Auckland-based team.

“I’m an architectural specifier representative supporting architectural and design professionals across Auckland. My approach is highly collaborative, and I specialise in paint specification, project support and colour consultancy,” says TJ.

TJ says getting to work with some of Auckland’s biggest developers on a range of projects has been a major highlight, especially since it means no two days are the same.

“I’ve been lucky to have been involved with many exciting projects during my time with Resene, but the projects that have really left an impression have been the ones that have used Resene FX Paint Effect—they’re always the most exciting because of the creativity and experimentation involved.

Kaiora by Cachet Group features an interior incorporating Resene FX Paint Effect in a custom mix of Half Nullarbor and Half Doeskin. Photo by Hamish Melville.

“The Kaiora project with Cachet Group was a great example, using a custom mix of Half Nullarbor and Half Doeskin, which gave the finish real depth and character.

“Likewise, The Resido project with Kiwi Property was another highlight, especially seeing how the FX Paint Effect mixes were used strategically across different areas: Desperado mixed with Hot August; Paddock mixed with Bitter; and Coast mixed with Navigate.”

This feature wall, in the lift lobby of the Resido apartments by Kiwi Property, is finished in Resene FX Paint Effect using a combination of Desperado and Hot August. Photo courtesy Kiwi Property.

Resene celebrates 80 years of New Zealand-made colour and innovation in 2026. During that time, the company has released a number of product firsts that have changed the face of the industry.

“For me, Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen really stands out as a game-changer,” says TJ.

“Resene was the first to introduce true waterborne enamels, the most popular of which is Resene Lustacryl semi-gloss. Nick (Nightingale) challenged the technical team to use the technology to create an ultra-high-performing wallpaint.

“The process was hugely involved and ultimately required a solution sourced from a Norwegian health sciences business who supplied a precise acrylic bead that was able to reduce the gloss level to an attractive low-sheen finish and in time a flat finish, whilst improving the mar and mark resistance. Resene SpaceCote was the result.

“Likewise, Resene FX Paint Effect is our most creative paint system—it’s where imagination meets technique. Rather than simply applying colour, it allows designers and applicators to craft a surface, building layers, movement and depth that impart a real sense of personality and story. Every finish is slightly different, making each application feel bespoke and considered rather than off-the-shelf.

“What makes it even more powerful is its versatility. The system can be applied to a wide range of substrates, both interior and exterior, giving designers the freedom to carry a creative idea seamlessly across an entire project. It’s this balance of artistic expression, hands-on craftsmanship and proven technical performance that makes Resene FX Paint Effect such a compelling and exciting solution.”

While his work on some of Auckland’s leading commercial projects has allowed TJ to specify cutting-edge Resene systems, on a personal note, TJ says his favourite Resene colour is Friar Greystone. Learn more about the Resene Specifier & Project Services team.

Published: 17 Feb 2026