Soft gelato shades of all colours hark back to retro baches and a 1950s look. Or they can be rose-petal blush like the pearly inside of a sea shell. Add some pretty accessories for a vintage feel. This wall is Resene Pot Pourri.

Classic colours for the beach and bach, seafoam greens and watery blues always hit the spot with their cooling vibe. This kitchen has cabinets in Resene Washed Green, with a hit of crisper aqua in the shelf above the fridge – it’s Resene Scandal. Other colours featured are Resene Centaurian, the purple on the bookcase, and walls in Resene Buttery White.

Resene Duck Egg Blue is a firm favourite for beach-inspired homes. See our tips on using it. 

Put it on your walls, your furniture, your fabrics or accessories, but how about a burst of sunshine yellow exactly where it should be – overhead? Homeowner Katie Williamson chose Resene Sundial for the ceiling of her hall and it looks sensational.

True greens are making a comeback. Paired with ruby reds they look zingy and very Christmassy. This bedroom feature wall is painted in Resene Camarone, a colour inspired by a painting by renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.

You can never have too much sizzle in a scheme. This setting layers red on red for a hot summer look. The wall is in Resene Whizz Bang while other painted elements include the table in Resene April Sun and the floor in Resene Outrageous.