Colour is the key ‘element’ in this new build’s exterior

04 May 2023

The earthy charcoal shade of Resene Element was the perfect choice for this modern new build where industrial minimalism meets empty-nester dreams. After their children left home, Kim and Neil Ford agreed it was time to shake up their living arrangements and create a space that was cosy on the inside and uber-cool on the outside.

Working closely with his clients, architect Michael Cooper brought Kim and Neil’s vision to life by designing a home with high ceilings, open-plan living, a covered patio, stand-out industrial-style internal staircase and an exterior with maximum street appeal and charm.

To ensure the home achieved its low maintenance goal, Michael selected Stria™ Cladding by James Hardie for the exterior. This ultra-sleek premium cladding, made from fibre cement, can be painted any colour, including dark shades, which are a major exterior decorating trend right now.  

The Fords’ home is painted in Resene Element, a sophisticated earthy charcoal that complements the earthy clay tones of the exposed brick.

The bush outlook from the Ford’s location was part of the attraction for the couple, as was having a covered outdoor area. They created an outdoor area of two parts – a dining space and an area completely given over to relaxation.

“Our last build didn’t have a covered patio, so we knew this time round we wanted something we could sit under to shelter from the weather and the sun,” says Neil. “We often put a screen up to make it a bit cosier and provide privacy from the next-door neighbours.”

“We loved the straight line of this cladding” says Kim. “It’s very durable and we could paint it dark. A lot of cladding products don’t allow you to paint it black, but you can with Stria™ Cladding and it looks really modern.”

Stria™ Cladding has distinctive deep grooved lines and can be installed horizontally or vertically, introducing an interesting design feature to the walls of any structure. For the Fords’ home, Michael elected to use it vertically, creating a wide pinstripe effect that makes the building seem taller. With deep grooved lines that play with light and shade, it adds visual interest to minimalist structures.

The Resene Element painted exterior works well with light concrete paving and is a perfect foil for the feature brick work used both inside and out. While the home has a stripped-back industrial minimalist style, comfort wasn’t sacrificed for this design statement. “I’m really proud when people say, ‘Wow, it feels so homely’,” says Kim. 

Information from this article courtesy of James Hardie case study, Nest Move

Cladding from James Hardiewww.jameshardie.co.nz

architectural designer Michael Cooper Architects

builder Sentinel Homes

Tip from Resene: When using dark shades like Resene Element, or other popular exterior shades like Resene Nero and Resene Foundry, use the Resene CoolColour version of the colour to reduce heat stress and damage. A Resene CoolColour reflects more of the sun’s damaging UV rays than the standard version of the colour and is especially useful when you’re opting for a dark shade.

Published: 04 May 2023