Breaking the mould: Inside Emilie and Hugh's colourful home

This is one home that breaks the mould with its exuberant use of colour. Emilie and Hugh’s house is not just a dwelling, but a canvas of vibrant hues and bold statements brought to life by the expert touch of interior designer Nicole van Ruler and a symphony of Resene paint colours.

Located in Eastbourne, this home reflects its serene backdrop and natural surroundings through lively hues and creative designs.

The soft, calming green of Resene Half Emerge was used in the dining space, with Resene Alabaster on trims. 

A soft Scandinavian blue, Resene Seachange, was used in the lounge, creating an inviting and tranquil space to relax.

Nicole shares her journey of transforming Hugh and Emilie's house into a colourful haven. "Hugh and Emilie were a delight to work with," she says. "Their openness to explore a wide range of colours was refreshing and allowed us to create something truly unique."

"It was a collaborative effort where every colour choice was carefully considered to evoke a sense of energy and serenity."

Hugh’s unique light fixture, made by himself, featuring a blue wave pattern complements the kitchen cabinetry in Resene Dauntless.

The bright and intrepid blue of Resene Dauntless brings colour to the kitchen, pairing well with the water-green of Resene Half Emerge and white trims in Resene Alabaster

The heart of this home served as the focal point for this creative project. "The kitchen became a canvas for self-expression," Nicole says, "a testament to their creativity and individuality." Emilie's vision of bold teal cabinetry, accentuated by open shelving to display her cherished pottery collection, set the tone for the entire space. Hugh's contribution, a striking handcrafted light fixture, added a personalised touch that perfectly complemented the vibrant colours.

A warm orchid tone, Resene High Tea, makes this bathroom space cosy and unique and is complemented by the blue tiles.

Resene Half Emerge, a misty, water green was painted on the walls in the hallway, with Resene Alabaster on trims.

As creatives themselves, Hugh and Emilie had strong ideas about the colour palette they wanted to incorporate. It was important to curate a harmonious blend of shades and tones that resonated with each space while maintaining a cohesive aesthetic throughout the home. The Resene colour palette curated for this project reflects the diversity of Hugh and Emilie's personalities and tastes.

From the calming hues of Resene Seachange adorning the lounge and master bedroom to the rich depth of Resene Dauntless gracing the kitchen joinery, each colour was chosen with intention and purpose.

A warm Tuscan orange, Resene Dawn Glow adorns the walls in the laundry and the upstairs study features a Nordic blue green, Resene Juniper.

The gentle mushroom brown, Resene Hazy Lavender, was used on the walls in the upstairs space, with Resene Alabaster on the ceiling and trims.

"Resene paints offered the versatility and quality we needed to bring our vision to life," says Nicole. “Whether it was the bold statement of Resene Juniper in Hugh's study or the soft elegance of Resene High Tea in the bathroom."

Resene products played a pivotal role in enhancing the natural beauty of the home. Timber surfaces stained with a Resene product add warmth and character, while the timeless allure of Resene Alabaster is the perfect complement on ceilings, doors and trims providing a crisp backdrop for the vibrant hues to shine.

This home transcends the ordinary. From the bold statements in the kitchen to the calming hues of the lounge, each colour choice reflects the personalities and tastes of its inhabitants, creating a harmonious blend of energy and tranquility throughout.

design Nicole Van Ruler, www.nicolevanruler.com

build Quayle Construction, www.quayleconstruction.co.nz/

architect Slessor Architects, www.slessorarchitects.co.nz/ 

painting contractor Zuba Decorators

Top tip: For a natural look finish on timber use Resene Aquaclear satin on walls and ceilings or for a more matte finish, try Resene Aquaclear Natural. These will help protect the timber from everyday wear and tear and make it easier to clean.  For timber flooring use Resene Qristal ClearFloor. If you need to rejuvenate the timber colour first, apply Resene Colorwood stain first before any clear topcoats

Published: 24 Apr 2024

Do you have a home full of wonderful Resene paint and colour? Send us some snaps by emailing [email protected].

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Resene Half Emerge

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Resene Hazy Lavender

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