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The artistic world of ArtFull Studio
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In this space, a simple mural connects this room with the outside via a glinting cityscape and a clever rug design evokes light rays, while gold tones add a warm glow. A truly unique design that adds depth and space to a smaller area. The mural is painted in Resene Oxygen, Resene Gunmetal, Resene Atomic and Resene FX Metallic Dalek, Resene Infinity and Resene FX Metallic Silver Aluminium. The wall is painted in Resene Black White, floorstain colour washed in ReseneColorwood Shade, table in Resene Undercurrent, cabinet and table tray in Resene Atomic and planter in Resene FX Faux Rust Effect. Rug from Early Settler and chair from Interior Warehouse. Project by Megan Harrison Turner, image by Bryce Carleton.
Ifcityscapes aren’t your thing, try a serene nature-inspired mural, like these stunning, gentle green mountains. This mural is painted in Resene Half Merino, Resene Eighth Lemon Grass, Resene Half Lemon Grass and Resene Lemon Grass all mixed into Resene FX Paint Effects Medium and applied layer by layer. Detailing is added with Resene Lemon Twist and Resene Eternity. The back wall is painted in Resene Double Lemon Grass, skirting in Resene Quarter Tapa, floorstain colour washed inReseneColorwood Breathe Easy, ladder in Resene Pavlova, peg stool in Resene Lemon Grass, tray on the bed in Resene Quarter Tapa and accessories in Resene Lime White, Resene Lemon Twist, Resene Quarter Merino, Resene Quarter Tapa, Resene Eternity and Resene Pavlova. Project by Moneuan Ryan, image by Bryce Carleton.
This painted mural is an instant talking point in homeowner Wendy’s house, bringing colour, energy and personality to the space. The background is painted in Resene Bunting and the mural design features Resene Azur d'Acre from the Resene Beyond the Sea ultramarine collection,Resene Riptide and Resene Red Hot. Design by Anna von Hartitzsch.
Create your own unique artwork with wallpaper – and this project only requires one roll which is great if you’re on a budget. The back wall is painted in Resene Woodland, wooden framing around Resene Wallpaper Collection 91310 in Resene Teak, floor in Resene Blanc, pendant in Resene Crail, tables in Resene Teak, book in Resene Yogi and tealight holder in Resene Brown Sugar. Sofa from nood, rug from Mocka, throws, leaf cushion and washed linen cushions from Adairs, rectangle cushion from Kmart. Project by Vanessa Nouwens, image by Bryce Carleton.
In this space, Resene Wallpaper Collection 103780973 is used in the wall recess to give it interest and make it a focal point in the room. This is a great way to highlight architectural details in your home. You could even opt for a different Resenepaint colour in a wall recess as a contrast to wallpapered walls or if you’re not keen on using a wallpaper.
If you’re a bit nervous about painting your own mural, why not use a wallpaper design like this stunning masterpiece. Resene Wallpaper Collection 103846403 combines bold, artistic shapes with intricate nature motifs and vibrant hues. This is sure to be the talk of your next dinner party.
The rich, deep green of Resene Half Karaka in this kitchen reflects the forest as seen through the Tūī’s eyes. This particular colour closely depicts green leaves in an artistic way, especially in the kitchen where it makes a statement with floating shelves. The wall is painted in Resene Half Merino and ceiling in Resene Quarter Merino. Liberty Pendant from Desejo. Design by Priyanka Sareen from Home Factor, image by Sampford Cathie.
A gentle green hue was used as an alluring statement in this master bedroom, Resene Half Ravine, reflecting the home’s forest green theme and offering a new take on a ‘feature wall’. This artistic pastel tone adds depth and interest to the space, while complementing the walls and ceiling painted in Resene Half Merino and Resene Quarter Merino. Diva Pendants from Desejo. Design by Priyanka Sareen from Home Factor, image by Sampford Cathie.
This space has had a Mediterranean-inspired makeover with the help of Resene FX Paint Effects Medium, taking it from ordinary to extraordinary. The walls are painted in Resene Biscotti with Resene FX Paint Effects Medium added to Resene Eighth Biscotti. The floor is painted in Resene Biscotti, arched cabinet in Resene Double Biscotti, vase with in Resene Half Biscotti, dish and vase in cabinet in Resene Biscotti, shorter jug in Resene Biscotti, taller jug on in Resene Biscotti with Resene FX Crackle, wave dish in cabinet in Resene Half Bianca and pedestal bowl in Resene Half Biscotti. Books from Sunday Homestore. Design by Vanessa Nouwens, image by Bryce Carleton.
Make a statement with a unique wall and a living artwork. This wall is painted in Resene Element with Resene FX Paint Effects Medium mixed with Resene Chicago and planter frame in Resene Element with box in clear ReseneAquaclear satin. For more details and to make this project yourself, see the step-by-step guide here.
Home as art: Walls that double as a canvas
In the world of home design, walls are no longer just backdrops, they’re becoming canvases for self-expression, creativityand bold design. From vibrant murals to intricate special finishes, the possibilities are endless. With Resene’s wide range of paint colours, wallpapersand special effect products, you can transform your walls into dynamic works of art. Let’s explore how to push the boundaries of traditional painting and elevate your space with artistic, one-of-a-kind designs.
Picture this
Wall murals have the power to transform an entire space, turning a blank wall into a captivating focal point that tells a story. Whatever you’re after, bold and abstract or a detailed, nature-inspired scene, a mural can reflect your personality and style and offer a one-of-a-kind design that stands out. And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional artist to create your own masterpiece.
Laura Lynn Johnston, editor of BlackWhite, shares her expert advice on incorporating murals into your home. She recommends considering ‘mini murals’ – small designs that can define or highlight a specific area, especially in open-plan living spaces. Don’t be afraid to break the rules, either. "Some of the coolest murals I’ve seen wrap around corners, over architraves on to doors, or even spill on to the floor," she says.
Laura Lynn encourages homeowners to ‘be brave’, noting that most mistakes happen when you're too cautious. After all, it's just paint, and it’s easy to touch up or change if you're not happy with the result. For a cohesive look, she suggests matching your mural to accent hues already in your room, like a favourite throw or vase, tying the space together with Resene colours that complement your existing décor.
In this space, a simple mural connects this room with the outside via a glinting cityscape and a clever rug design evokes light rays, while gold tones add a warm glow. A truly unique design that adds depth and space to a smaller area. The mural is painted in Resene Oxygen, Resene Gunmetal, Resene Atomic and Resene FX Metallic Dalek, Resene Infinity and Resene FX Metallic Silver Aluminium. The wall is painted in Resene Black White, floorstain colour washed in ReseneColorwood Shade, table in Resene Undercurrent, cabinet and table tray in Resene Atomic and planter in Resene FX Faux Rust Effect. Rug from Early Settler and chair from Interior Warehouse. Project by Megan Harrison Turner, image by Bryce Carleton.
Ifcityscapes aren’t your thing, try a serene nature-inspired mural, like these stunning, gentle green mountains. This mural is painted in Resene Half Merino, Resene Eighth Lemon Grass, Resene Half Lemon Grass and Resene Lemon Grass all mixed into Resene FX Paint Effects Medium and applied layer by layer. Detailing is added with Resene Lemon Twist and Resene Eternity. The back wall is painted in Resene Double Lemon Grass, skirting in Resene Quarter Tapa, floorstain colour washed inReseneColorwood Breathe Easy, ladder in Resene Pavlova, peg stool in Resene Lemon Grass, tray on the bed in Resene Quarter Tapa and accessories in Resene Lime White, Resene Lemon Twist, Resene Quarter Merino, Resene Quarter Tapa, Resene Eternity and Resene Pavlova. Project by Moneuan Ryan, image by Bryce Carleton.
This painted mural is an instant talking point in homeowner Wendy’s house, bringing colour, energy and personality to the space. The background is painted in Resene Bunting and the mural design features Resene Azur d'Acre from the Resene Beyond the Sea ultramarine collection,Resene Riptide and Resene Red Hot. Design by Anna von Hartitzsch.
Top mural tips:
Invest in high-quality painter’s masking tape for crisp, clean edges. A small extra cost is well worth it, as it won’t damage your basecoat and will peel off perfectly, leaving a sharp line. Laura Lynn recommends Sellotape Washi Advanced or Sellotape Premium+ Washi, available at Resene ColorShops or online.
For a neat finish, mask off the area then apply a layer of your existing wall colour first. This creates a barrier that prevents your mural colour from running, ensuring clean, sharp edges.
Use high-quality paintbrushes with soft bristles for smooth, clean curves. While it may seem counterintuitive, a wide brush works best for freehand curves, as smaller brushes are more sensitive to wobbles and can lead to frustration.
Resenetestpots are popular and easy to use if you’re planning on lots of colours.
If you want to adjust the sheen level of the paint once you’ve finished painting, you can apply Resene Concrete Clear over the top. A gloss clear will make the colours seem brighter, a matte clear will make the colours seem more muted.
Unpeel the possibilities
Wallpaper isn’t just for feature walls anymore;it’s making a grand comeback as an all-encompassing design element. With Resene’s wide selection of wallpapers, you can explore endless design possibilities, from soft pastels to bold patterns and textured finishes. Use wallpaper to transform a small nook or an entire room or get creative by layering patterns and colours to create a unique aesthetic.
Wallpaper isn’t limited to walls either. Think ceilings, door panels or even the back of bookshelves for that extra touch of flair. The versatility of wallpaper means there’s a perfect design for every space and every style, whether you’re going for classic elegance or something more modern and edgy. Check out the below designs, and find more inspiration in the latest habitat plus – wallpaper booklet.
Create your own unique artwork with wallpaper – and this project only requires one roll which is great if you’re on a budget. The back wall is painted in Resene Woodland, wooden framing around Resene Wallpaper Collection 91310 in Resene Teak, floor in Resene Blanc, pendant in Resene Crail, tables in Resene Teak, book in Resene Yogi and tealight holder in Resene Brown Sugar. Sofa from nood, rug from Mocka, throws, leaf cushion and washed linen cushions from Adairs, rectangle cushion from Kmart. Project by Vanessa Nouwens, image by Bryce Carleton.
In this space, Resene Wallpaper Collection 103780973 is used in the wall recess to give it interest and make it a focal point in the room. This is a great way to highlight architectural details in your home. You could even opt for a different Resenepaint colour in a wall recess as a contrast to wallpapered walls or if you’re not keen on using a wallpaper.
If you’re a bit nervous about painting your own mural, why not use a wallpaper design like this stunning masterpiece. Resene Wallpaper Collection 103846403 combines bold, artistic shapes with intricate nature motifs and vibrant hues. This is sure to be the talk of your next dinner party.
Colour me inspired
When it comes to paint, the sky’s the limit. Especially when you think beyond the traditional role of paint as a simple backdrop. With Resene’s array of vibrant hues and finishes, you can turn paint into a true work of art. Think of it as highlighting an area in your home or a piece of art you already love, or even like creating artwork directly on your walls.
Whether you’re adding fluid shapes, stripesor colour blocks, paint is a powerful tool to create visual interest and bring a fresh artistic vibe to your home.Priyanka Sareen, Architectural and Interior Designer at Home Factor, is an expert at using colour in unexpected ways.
“As a designer, I see paint as more than a backdrop – it’s a storytelling tool that brings emotion, form and function into dialogue,” says Priyanka. “This home [below] was inspired by the way the Tūī bird sees the world – fluid, layered and deeply connected to nature.
“In the kitchen, Resene’s deep forest green, Resene Half Karaka, climbs the wall and continues across the ceiling, grounding the pendant and shelving in a single, sculptural gesture. It’s a curated moment of light and form – a way of framing objects so they feel intentionally placed, not just functional. The floating shelves, while minimalist in shape, emulate the branching structures of trees – subtle cues that connect the home to the natural world.
“In the master bedroom, a painted arc behind the bed mimics the curved mosaic pattern found in the ensuite, creating a quiet visual rhythm between the spaces. The curvature softens the room and brings a sense of flow.
“My advice is this: don’t be afraid to use paint as a form of expression. Let it guide the eye, frame a moment or echo another material. With Resene’s expansive, nuanced palette, we’re able to turn walls into living, breathing extensions of a home’s personality.”
The rich, deep green of Resene Half Karaka in this kitchen reflects the forest as seen through the Tūī’s eyes. This particular colour closely depicts green leaves in an artistic way, especially in the kitchen where it makes a statement with floating shelves. The wall is painted in Resene Half Merino and ceiling in Resene Quarter Merino. Liberty Pendant from Desejo. Design by Priyanka Sareen from Home Factor, image by Sampford Cathie.
A gentle green hue was used as an alluring statement in this master bedroom, Resene Half Ravine, reflecting the home’s forest green theme and offering a new take on a ‘feature wall’. This artistic pastel tone adds depth and interest to the space, while complementing the walls and ceiling painted in Resene Half Merino and Resene Quarter Merino. Diva Pendants from Desejo. Design by Priyanka Sareen from Home Factor, image by Sampford Cathie.
You effect me
Elevate your space with Resene FX Paint Effects Medium – a versatile, tintable acrylic that unlocks a world of creative possibilities. Whether you're aiming for the rustic charm of limewashing, the depth of colourwashing or the tactile allure of textured finishes, this medium adapts to your vision.
Techniques like ragrolling, sponging and colour folding allow you to craft unique surfaces that blend seamlessly with your design. If you’re seeking a touch of glamour, finishes such as Resene FX Pearl Shimmer and Resene FX Metallics introduce subtle iridescence and depth, transforming walls into dynamic focal points.
These effects not only enhance aesthetics but also offer practical benefits, including the ability to mask imperfections and add character to any room. Ideal for both interior and exterior applications, Resene FX Paint Effects Medium empowers you to infuse your space with personalised artistry and enduring style. See more paint effects inspiration and designs here!
This space has had a Mediterranean inspired makeover with the help of Resene FX Paint Effects Medium, taking it from ordinary to extraordinary. The walls are painted in Resene Biscotti with Resene FX Paint Effects Medium added to Resene Eighth Biscotti. The floor is painted in Resene Biscotti, arched cabinet in Resene Double Biscotti, vase with in Resene Half Biscotti, dish and vase in cabinet in Resene Biscotti, shorter jug in Resene Biscotti, taller jug on in Resene Biscotti with Resene FX Crackle, wave dish in cabinet in Resene Half Bianca and pedestal bowl in Resene Half Biscotti.Books from Sunday Homestore. Design by Vanessa Nouwens, image by Bryce Carleton.
Make a statement with a unique wall and a living artwork. This wall is painted in Resene Element with Resene FX Paint Effects Medium mixed with Resene Chicago and planter frame in Resene Element with box in clear ReseneAquaclear satin. For more details and to make this project yourself, see the step-by-step guide here.
Your home is your canvas, and with Resene's innovative range of paints, wallpapers and special effects products, the possibilities are endless. The beauty of these design elements is that they allow you to bring your imagination to life, transforming any space into something truly special. Don’t‘just’ decorate – create, innovate and let your walls tell a story of their own.
For more information and advice on colour, visit your local Resene ColorShop or Ask a Resene Colour Expert free online. Make sure to follow habitat by Resene on Instagram for more fresh and exciting inspiration!
Published: 29 May 2025
Do you have a home full of wonderful Resene paint and colour? Send us some snaps by emailing [email protected].
Resene Half Lemon Grass
Resene Half Lemon Grass
Resene Double Biscotti
Resene Double Biscotti
Resene Half Biscotti
Resene Half Biscotti
the look
If you're stuck on what
colour to use or need colour
advice, try out the Resene
Ask a Colour Expert service.
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Resene Half Lemon Grass
Resene Half Lemon Grass
Resene Double Biscotti
Resene Double Biscotti
Resene Half Biscotti
Resene Half Biscotti
the look
If you're stuck on what
colour to use or need colour
advice, try out the Resene
Ask a Colour Expert service.
