Bold beauty: A coastal home’s black and blush colour scheme

Piha is known for its rugged coastal setting where the elements command respect and inspire awe. Within this landscape, award winning architect Daniel Marshall of DMA has designed a stunning home where architectural resilience and aesthetic harmony meet.  

This home not only defies the coastal tempests but also embraces its surroundings with a thoughtful blend of form, function and colour. 

Amongst the black sand dunes overlooking the Tasman Sea, this home is bold yet sensitive, featuring materials like black stained cedar, basalt stone and expansive low-e glass framed in anodised aluminium frames. The structure elegantly cantilevers over its lower levels, providing breathtaking views while sheltering its inhabitants from the elements. 


The upper level cantilevers over the lower, creating a space for the homeowners to shelter from the elements while enjoying nature. The dark exteriorstained in Resene Woodsman Pitch Black is striking against the rugged Piha landscape.


The soft, dusky hue of Resene Blanched Pink was used on the walls and ceiling, with Resene Black on trims.  

Inspired by Piha's natural hues, a mix of blushing pinks and bold blacks adorn the interior. Resene Blanched Pink, a delicate shade reminiscent of a serene sunset, infuses the walls with warmth and tranquillity, offering a peaceful retreat from the rugged outdoors. Complementing this soft pink are Resene Black accents, used in door jambs and skirtings, creating a striking contrast that enhances the visual depth and contemporary feel of the space. 

The dark timber stain of Resene Woodsman Pitch Black complements the other natural tones in the wood.
The dark timber stain of Resene Woodsman Pitch Black complements the other natural tones in the wood 


The exterior is stained in Resene Woodsman Pitch Black foran elegant and contemporary look that blends with the natural landscape.

The boldness of Resene Black on trims and door jambs contrasts beautifully with the walls and ceiling in Resene Blanched Pink.
The boldness of Resene Black on trims and door jambs contrasts beautifully with the walls and ceiling in Resene Blanched Pink. 

The house makes a striking statement with its exterior cladding stained in Resene Woodsman Pitch Black. This choice not only adds a touch of elegance but also blends harmoniously with the natural surroundings, echoing the deep hues found in Piha's native forests and sands. The result is an exterior that stands in stark yet harmonious contrast against the coastal landscape, embodying both sophistication and natural beauty. 

In the powder room, Resene Blanched Pink on the door and ceiling complements the grey tiling and Resene Black trims and door jambs.
In the powder room, Resene Blanched Pink on the door and ceiling complements the grey tiling and Resene Black trims and door jambs. 

A notable feature is the sustainability elements in this home. Almost entirely self-sufficient, it features solar panels, rainwater harvesting and on-site wastewater treatment, demonstrating DMA's commitment to environmental responsibility without compromising on comfort or style. 

Constructing this Piha home was no small feat. With the location’s unpredictable weather and unique coastal conditions, there was a lot to consider. From strategic drainage solutions to meticulous architectural detailing, every aspect of the design was crafted to withstand and complement the natural environment. 

This truly is a sanctuary where modern living meets coastal grandeur. It's a place where the subtle meets the bold, where sustainability harmonises with sophistication, and where every detail tells a story of resilience and beauty in harmony with nature. 

design Daniel Marshall, DMA 

images Jackie Meiring 

Top tip: Thinking of staining your home’s exterior? Before you start, ensure you know the type of timber and its natural colour. The same colour stain can look remarkably different on different types of wood and the final result will depend on the type of wood and how well it absorbs the stain. View samples of stained timber at your local Resene ColorShop and make sure you use a Resene testpot to test the colour on a timber off-cut. If no offcut is available, find a discreet part of the timber to test it on. If you’re planning a dark colour, consider using the Resene CoolColour version of your stain colour to help reflect more heat.  View the range of Resene wood stains online or pick up a colour chart at your local Resene ColorShop. 

Published: 06 Aug 2024

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