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Timeless neutrals for a 1920s bungalow
This thoughtfully renovated 1920s bungalow balances respect for the history of a character home with new spaces that suit modern family life.
Designed by Nala Studio Architects and brought to life by Neo Build, the renovation has turned the home into a light filled retreat where heritage charm and contemporary living come together.
A reworked floor plan offers generous open plan living, a cosy media room, a bespoke kitchen with adjoining scullery and easy connection to the landscaped outdoor spaces.
Every addition feels considered, including a cleverly concealed ensuite that blends into the home's original street facing façade, preserving its character within the Special Character Area (a legally designated zone in urban planning designed to protect the historical, architectural and visual identity of specific neighbourhoods).
Walls and ceiling in Resene Quarter Merino, trims in Rice Cake.
Central to the renovation is a carefully curated colour palette that unites the old with the new. Soft neutrals create a calm backdrop throughout the home, allowing architectural details, artwork and furniture to take centre stage as well as ensuring each room feels connected and cohesive.
Walls and ceiling in Resene Quarter Merino.
The interior walls are painted with Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen in Quarter Merino, a charming mid-toned white that adapts easily in different spaces and times of the day. The ceilings are finished in the same hue but in a flat finish, helping to soften the light while drawing attention to the bungalow’s generous ceiling heights and original detailing.
Window surrounds, doors and trims are finished in Resene Lustacryl in the warm shade of Rice Cake.
Walls in Resene Wan White, window trims in Rice Cake.
Ensuite walls in Resene Wan White.
The ensuite is painted in the slightly warmer tone of Wan White, which creates a gentle, calming spa-like look, especially with the timber tones of the shelving, greenery and white tiles.
The restrained palette creates a sense of openness throughout the home and proves that neutral doesn't have to mean plain. Instead, it provides a timeless canvas for personal artwork, furniture and natural materials which add personality without overwhelming the architecture.
Walls in Resene Quarter Merino, window trims in Rice Cake.
Lighting plays an important role in shaping the atmosphere too. Thoughtful light fixtures accentuate the bungalow’s heritage features while giving the interiors a fresh, contemporary feel. Ceiling roses blend with the colour scheme while still drawing the eye with their intricate detailing.
Weatherboards, soffits, fascia and fencing in Resene Rice Cake.
Outside, the soft warmth of Resene Rice Cake on weatherboards, trims, soffits and fencing contrasts beautifully against the vibrant blue of the swimming pool and the lush greenery and landscaping. It also offers a connection to the interior doors and trims in the same shade.
Exterior in Resene Rice Cake.
Fencing in Resene Rice Cake.
This bungalow demonstrates the lasting appeal of a restrained colour palette. By layering soft whites, the renovation feels fresh, sophisticated and enduring.
design Nala Studio Architects
build Neo Build
paint Pro Coat Painters
images Sam Laurent
Resene Pro Tip:
Resene Lumbersider is a go-to choice for home exteriors and fences. Its low-sheen finish hides timber imperfections, and it is easy to apply, making it ideal for maintaining solid paint finishes that last for years to come.
If you’re painting in winter, consider adding Resene Wintergrade Additive to help the paint cure in temperatures as low as 3°C. In summer months, add Resene Hot Weather Additive to your paint, it slows drying time and provides a longer ‘wet edge’, meaning you can blend brush and roller strokes seamlessly without the paint drying before you finish the section.
Published: 15 Jul 2026
Do you have a home full of wonderful Resene paint and colour? Send us some snaps by emailing [email protected].
Resene Quarter Merino
the look
If you're stuck on what
colour to use or need colour
advice, try out the Resene
Ask a Colour Expert service.
Resene Quarter Merino
the look
If you're stuck on what
colour to use or need colour
advice, try out the Resene
Ask a Colour Expert service.
