Placing hyper on hold

14 Apr 2026

Few of us would be unaware of the debates surrounding the impact of our frenetic, modern-day lives on the environment, our general health and wellbeing, and increased social isolation.

As we all search for more of an equitable work-life balance, concepts such as ‘degrowth’ and ‘neo-pastoralism’ are gaining credence as a way of putting a hold on the fast-paced, work-a-day lives we inhabit.

Key aspects of neo-pastoralism include a focus on slow living and minimising tech-driven routines, living lightly on the land and becoming self-sustaining, and embracing local economies.

Aesthetically, there is an emphasis on natural textures, organic materials and colours that err on the softer side of nature, such as Resene Nirvana, Half Raven and Olive Green.

As the following examples show, neutrals are teamed with saturated, nature-inspired hues to create complementary tonal layers that are harmonious and uplifting.

Walls in Resene Half Sisal, bar front and planter pot in Olive Green, bowls in Nirvana and Half Sisal, tile-look floor in Half Sisal with Resene FX Paint Effects Medium in Travis over the top.

Wall in Resene Half Sisal, ‘tiled’ floor in Avant Garde with Resene FX Paint Effects Medium tinted to Hot August over the top, grout lines in Half Sisal, stool and pillar in Avant Garde, ‘tiled’ shelf in Avant Garde with grout lines in Half Sisal, vase in Avant Garde and small bowl in Hot August.

Wall in Resene Half Sisal with Resene FX Paint Effects Medium tinted to Travis, door in Nirvana, ‘concrete’ floor in Half Raven with Resene FX Paint Effects Medium tinted to Half Shark, pots in Half Sisal with Resene FX Paint Effects tinted to Travis (left) and Half Sisal, bench in Half Raven and coat stand in Travis.

Clockwise from top: Resene Olive Green, Avant Garde, Travis, Half Sisal, Nirvana, Koru and Half Raven.

Stylist: Amber Armitage, Photography: Melanie Jenkins; Flash Studios

Published: 14 Apr 2026