The Hundertwasser Arts Centre: Where colour meets architectural brilliance

09 Oct 2023

In the heart of Whangarei, New Zealand, the Hundertwasser Arts Centre is a true testament to the power of creativity and collaboration. This architectural gem has been transformed into a visual masterpiece using Resene colours and varying techniques from a team of experts, where every corner tells a unique story. We had the privilege of delving into the intricate details of this project with the McNabb Decorating team, discovering their colour inspirations, design journey and artistic triumphs that define this space.

The journey of the Hundertwasser Arts Centre began with the application of structural steel intumescent coatings, a process that laid the foundation for the vibrant interior. As the structural elements were being prepared, the team of designers and painting contractors stepped in.

The colour scheme was carefully curated to reflect the vision of Vienna, with a nod to European aesthetics. Resene Zylone Sheen and Resene SpaceCote provided a diverse palette of colours, from a multitude of blues to classic black and white scales. "The Resene Sea Fog and Resene Double Sea Fog Vienna lines meticulously hand-painted throughout the building convey lighting and shadowing effects, with the Resene FilmPro Black providing negative space," Peter notes.

The seamless transition between walls and skirting in the galleries was achieved with hand-painted natural flowing lines, softening the stark contrast. Innovative techniques, such as using Resene FX Paint Effects Medium combined with Resene Bondi Blue, adds a washed, worn, industrial chic look beneath the stairs, adding depth and character.

"Free-flowing, hand-drawn lines where the walls meet the ceilings, and hand-painted natural lines on the stairwell, cafe and learning walls gave an eccentrically abstract perspective - a perfectly imperfect concept, as was the request of the client," Peter McNabb explains.

Resene's collaboration with the project was instrumental in replicating Vienna's chosen colours and ensuring they fit seamlessly into the Hundertwasser scope of design. The end result is a vibrant, harmonious blend of hues that dance across the space.

Hundertwasser's philosophy of repurposing materials and unleashing one's inner artist was woven into the fabric of the project. Bricks from the original standing harbour board building were used outside, and reclaimed kauri floorboards were transformed into doors. Designers and contributors were encouraged to add their own character to the building, creating a sense of personal connection and pride in their contributions.

The Hundertwasser Arts Centre is a sensory experience like no other. Resene SpaceCote Flat on the gallery walls ensures that light does not distract from the artwork, while a higher sheen on the doorframes painted in Resene Black allows the colour and gloss of the doors to shine. A custom coloured Resene Colorwood stain matches the solid colour doors, allowing the kauri grain to shine through.

"It really is a stimulation for the eyes and a textural treat for the touch," Peter says.

This remarkable project showcases the transformative power of colour, creativity and collaboration. The Hundertwasser Arts Centre is not just a building - it is a living work of art, a testament to the visionaries who brought it to life, and a must-visit destination for art and architecture enthusiasts.

painting contractor Peter McNabb, McNabb Decorating

design Richard Smart, Hundertwasser Museum

architectural specifier  HB Architecture

building contractor Trigg Construction

images James Wilkinson and Sue Shepherd, PhotoINCNZ

Near the entrance, a striking custom blue was created by Resene to provide the ideal Hundertwasser blue. Trims in Resene Black, ceiling in Resene Alabaster.

Resene SpaceCote Flat tinted to Resene Black was used for the gallery walls. The lack of sheen on the walls allows the displayed art to take centre stage and pop off the dark colour, making it the main feature. The ceiling is painted in Resene Alabaster and trims in Resene Black.

The tearoom features a custom Resene colour to recreate a Hundertwasser green. The ceiling is painted in Resene Alabaster and trims in Resene Black.

The stairwell features Resene Sea Fog and Resene Double Sea Fog stripes on the walls, with Resene Black trims. Resene FX Paint Effects Medium mixed with Resene Bondi Blue, adds a washed industrial look beneath the stairs, adding depth and character.

Framing the walls and spaces within the art centre, Resene Sea Fog was used on the walls with painted trims in Resene Double Sea Fog and Resene Black.

Resene Black was used on walls, with ceiling in Resene Alabaster.

The gentle Resene Sea Fog and Resene Double Sea Fog stripes grace these walls, with a solid blue door painted in Resene Cobalt and trims in Resene Black.

If anything screams art centre and creativity, it’s the exterior of The Hundertwasser Arts Centre. The window frames are stained in Resene Apollo Blue, Resene Red Pepper and Resene Desert Yellow. Soffits and downpipes in Resene Black.

Published: 09 Oct 2023