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Colour takes centre stage at Auckland Art Gallery Toi o Tāmaki
In the exhibition, Picasso: Designed by Paul Smith, colour becomes part of the story.
Picasso: Designed… more
Design by VILLA&CO.
Design by Rogan Nash Architects, image by Simon Wilson.
Design by homeowners, Origin Build, image by Peem Anakukal.
Painting by Bruff Painting Contractors.
Design and image by Signature Homes.
Design by Athfield Architects, image by Caroline Boetzelen.
Home exterior design and colour inspiration
First impressions are important, especially when it comes to our homes. And while you want to impress visitors, it’s arguably more important that you’re coming home to a space you love each day.
If you’ve been thinking of refreshing your exterior, or in the early stages of building your dream home, let these facades give you some inspiration on what colour schemes and finishes to use.
Design by Rogan Nash Architects, image by Simon Wilson.
Depending on your home’s era, contrast can be a key tool for highlighting its features. For modern structures with clean lines, consider using a lighter colour on weatherboards and cladding, and a darker tone on trims and your front door. This home is painted in Resene Kensington Grey with trims and fence in Porter. For heritage homes and villas, consider using your contrasting shade to emphasise fretwork, fascias and finials.
Resene Pro Tip: When using dark shades on exterior weatherboards, fences and decks, use the Resene CoolColour version to reduce heat stress and damage. Research confirms it is more durable and lasts longer as it reflects more of the sun’s damaging UV rays than the standard version of the colour.
Design by homeowners, Origin Build, image by Peem Anakukal.
Colours on exteriors will look a lot lighter outside than they would on the inside. So, if you’re considering white but don’t want it to be blinding whenever you enjoy time on your patio, try an off-white or grey. These weatherboards are painted in Resene Silver Chalice, a great choice in the bright, cool-toned New Zealand and Australian light. The trims are painted in Black White which adds a crisp edge and pairs well with the soft grey.
Resene Pro Tip: If you’re planning on staining, or re-staining, your timber deck, depending on the state of it, it’s a good idea to use Resene Moss & Mould Killer to get rid of any moss, mould or lichen, and scrub using Timber & Deck Wash to remove the greyed top layer of timber and any residual surface stain. Find your chosen shade in a Resene Woodsman Decking Stain.
Painting by Bruff Painting Contractors.
This beachfront Noosa home is painted in the gentle blue of Resene Bounty. Contrasting details are painted in Titania, an earthy grey that appears white in the sunlight but is far easier on the eyes. The colour palette is a subtle take on sand and sea tones, making the exterior feel right at home in its coastal environment.
Design and image by Signature Homes.
Dark, contemporary tones, like this brickwork in Bokara Grey, paired with the natural warmth of timber, create a striking look. The contrast between deep charcoals and near-black cladding and rich wood detailing adds depth and character. Subtle landscaping then softens the overall look.
Resene Pro Tip: When painting exterior brick, use Resene X-200 paint for high-performance waterproofing and crack bridging, or use Resene Lumbersider in either eggshell or matt for a durable, flexible finish. Remember to always seal brick first with Resene Sureseal to bind powdery, porous surfaces or Resene Smooth Surface Sealer if painting over highly glazed bricks. Additionally, as bricks vary greatly, apply a test patch first to check the system before committing.
Design by VILLA&CO.
Classic charm meets contemporary colour in this beautifully detailed home. Truffle creates a warm, neutral exterior, complemented by the striking contrast of the roof in Ebony. Delicate decorative gable details in Dusky Pink add subtle colour and softness, while the timber deck and lush gardens enhance the home's timeless appeal.
Design by Athfield Architects, image by Caroline Boetzelen.
Bold, bright and bursting with personality. If you’re after an exterior that’s impossible to miss, take inspiration from this one. A playful combination of Tangerine, Butterfly, Tulip Tree and Mai Tai transforms the exterior into a vibrant statement. Contrasting trims and eye-catching details add extra character. A fearless approach to colour can create something truly unforgettable.
Resene Pro Tip: If you’re making a statement with bold hues, use a gloss finish like Resene Super Gloss or Resene Enamacryl to bring out the intensity of the colour – which looks especially great on a front door! Applied well over a very smooth surface Resene Super Gloss Enamel will achieve a mirror-like finish but take note, the prep-work has to be top notch!
Published: 29 Oct 2026
Do you have a home full of wonderful Resene paint and colour? Send us some snaps by emailing [email protected].
Resene Kensington Grey
Resene Silver Chalice
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 Kensington Grey
Resene Silver Chalice
the look
If you're stuck on what
colour to use or need colour
advice, try out the Resene
Ask a Colour Expert service.
