How Resene’s most loved colour made this home a timeless masterpiece
With a harmonious blend of African and Japanese design elements, this home, named the Kauri House, is nestled within one of New Zealand’s lush, native forests. The renovation of this home, brought to life by Context Architects, has resulted in a timeless and charming space with the help of the half strength of Resene’s most popular colour of all time, Resene Black White.
The homeowners, with a deep appreciation for both African and Japanese cultures, envisioned a home that would merge these influences while maintaining a quintessentially Kiwi feel. The design aimed to integrate with the natural surroundings, fostering a sense of connectedness within each living space.
An absolutely stunning interior with the architecture showcased by a charming neutral, Resene Half Black White.
![Resene Half Black White carries through to the bedroom where classic furniture adorns the space.](/assets/Natasha-Tulp_Kauri-House_6__ResizedImageWzYwMCw5MDBd_WatermarkWzEwLDEwLDE4MCwxMDgsIkJvdHRvbVJpZ2h0IiwyMjA4N10.jpg)
Inspired by the elegance of a Japanese lantern, the house features warm timber interiors and a dark timber exterior, creating a striking yet subtle presence. The folded, origami-like exterior form enhances the overall aesthetic, opening towards breathtaking views of the natural landscape.
The colour scheme for Kauri House was meticulously chosen to evoke specific emotions and enhance the design aesthetic. Resene Half Black White was selected for the interior to complement the rich timber finishes throughout the home. It was the perfect neutral to harmonise with the natural materials and to create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The origami-like design in the home is truly remarkable. The timber floor, an extension of the natural surroundings, is finished in Resene Qristal ClearFloor 1K for a beautiful finish. The walls and ceiling are painted in Resene Half Black White.
The contrast between the warm timber and Resene Half Black White on the walls is striking throughout the home. Use Resene Aquaclear on timber walls and ceilings for a protective finish that allows the beauty of the timber to show through.
The existing timber flooring was brought back to life with Resene Qristal ClearFloor 1K, ensuring a durable and long-lasting finish that also highlights the natural beauty of the wood.
The renovation involved a careful balance of preserving the home's original charm while introducing modern elements that cater to the evolving needs of the family. The kitchen and dining areas were designed with a social atmosphere in mind, featuring warm timber finishes that create a cosy, communal space. An in-situ concrete fireplace provides a striking contrast to the warm interior and the formwork was meticulously aligned with the kitchen's central datum, creating a seamless visual flow.
The in-situ concrete fireplace, a stunning main feature of the home, provides warmth and drama to the space. Timber flooring is finished in Resene Qristal ClearFloor 1K.
The master ensuite also features Resene Half Black White on the ceiling, complementing the earthy toned tiles and wooden elements.
In the existing wing, the living room nook was enhanced with oak panels and built-in furnishings, while the ceiling was raised to connect with the first-floor mezzanine, opening up to expansive scenic views. This thoughtful design ensures that every space within the home feels both intimate and interconnected, celebrating the stunning natural surroundings.
Using the one shade of Resene Half Black White throughout the home highlights the architecture, design and views, allowing them to take centre stage.
This warm timber deck is finished in Resene Wood-X wood oil tinted to Resene Gold Rush. The planter boxes are Rockcote Torino Sands.
One of the most significant tasks of the design team was to modernise the home without losing its original essence. The homeowners wanted to retain elements of their old family home while also future-proofing it for changing needs. The neutral colour palette achieved the ideal balance between the old and the new.
The Kauri House showcases the potential of thoughtful design and high-quality materials. This home is a harmonious space set against the backdrop of New Zealand's natural beauty and will serve the family for years to come.
design Context Architects
build RPW Builders
images Hazel Redmond
Top tip: If you’re wondering which white to choose for your home, ask yourself if you want the space to feel cooler, crisper, warmer or brighter? The red, orange, yellow and brown based whites, like Resene Bianca and Resene Villa White, are good for rooms that need warming up, say on the south side of the house, while those with a touch of grey and some of those with green or blue undertones, like Resene Black White and Resene Sea Fog, are good for taking the visual heat out of north-facing rooms. Take a look at the habitat plus – whites and neutrals online booklet for some help, or visit your local Resene ColorShop for more advice.
Published: 06 Jun 2024
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![Square square colour information icon Square square colour information icon](/_resources/themes/newhabitat/images/square-square-black.png)
Resene Half Black White
![Square square colour information icon Square square colour information icon](/_resources/themes/newhabitat/images/square-square-black.png)
![Square square colour information icon Square square colour information icon](/_resources/themes/newhabitat/images/square-square.png)
Resene Half Black White
the look
If you're stuck on what
colour to use or need colour
advice, try out the Resene
Ask a Colour Expert service.
![Square square colour information icon Square square colour information icon](/_resources/themes/newhabitat/images/square-square-black.png)
Resene Half Black White
![Square square colour information icon Square square colour information icon](/_resources/themes/newhabitat/images/square-square-black.png)
![Square square colour information icon Square square colour information icon](/_resources/themes/newhabitat/images/square-square.png)
Resene Half Black White
the look
If you're stuck on what
colour to use or need colour
advice, try out the Resene
Ask a Colour Expert service.