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Clever design and soft tones for a compact home
04 Jun 2026
Landmark Homes Central West’s newest Auckland showhome in Point Chevalier explores what modern living looks like on a smaller site. Set on a compact 206 square metre section, the home…
Inside an eclectic Wellington home
28 May 2026
Erin and Brendan bought their 1920s Californian bungalow in Lyall Bay in late 2023. Already a good home, the couple saw an opportunity to make it feel even more like…
Ultramarine and Smoulder for a modern Scandi farmhouse
21 May 2026
Delwyn and her husband purchased their home in 2020 and by 2022 the renovations had begun. The late-90s build had what Delwyn called “good bones”, but it was a little…
Peek inside this colourful cottage
30 Apr 2026
The concept for this home was ‘retro meets Art Deco’.
“The character needed to shine through and reference a time when colour was lively,” says interior designer and homeowner, Ingrid Russell.…
Inside a relaxed coastal home with a maximalist twist
23 Apr 2026
Sitting on a quiet road in Tairua, a once-bright orange house is now softened into something a little more considered. The transformation is deeply personal, and for homeowner Michelle, her…
A home grounded in family history – and a colour surprise inside!
16 Apr 2026
There are homes you move into, and then there’s homes that are already part of you, and for Olivia, this one has always been both.
Built in the 1960s by…
From worn down to wonderful with charming neutrals
09 Apr 2026
When property investor and renovation enthusiast Laura Goldsworthy bought her Karori home last year, it felt like stepping into another era. The house, as many do, had good bones, but…
Red hot interior ideas for the cooler months
25 Mar 2026
Dark colour palettes are having a major moment and we love the way that deep paint tones add a sense of sophistication and mood to a room. And red? Well,…
A Queensland home refreshed in modern neutrals
19 Mar 2026
Originally built in the 1980s, this split-level, three-storey family home already had a personality of its own. The structure is thoughtful for its time, complete with intercom, security systems and…
Palm Springs energy in Surfers Paradise
12 Mar 2026
This home, set within one of Surfers Paradise’s iconic buildings, begins with a slice of history, gently carried forward and reimagined. “The apartment belongs to a Melbourne-based client whose father…
Colour, character and country calm
05 Mar 2026
Just outside Cambridge, Amy and her family – husband Vern and children Carlos, Lizzie and Will – have transformed a once-rundown villa into a warm, personality-filled home, guided largely by…
Izabela and Ninan’s dream home with Indian Ink to Tom Thumb
25 Feb 2026
This is a family home where bold decisions met careful planning, and where colour plays a defining role in shaping both mood and identity. Designed by the homeowners themselves and…
Grounded coastal living in the South Island
04 Feb 2026
At first glance, Michelle’s home feels quietly confident, settled into its coastal setting with ease. But the story really begins back in 2010, when her and her husband Peter bought…
Minty greens and blushing pinks bring this art deco home to life
22 Jan 2026
Some homes just have that presence you feel the very moment you arrive. That couldn’t be more true for this 1920s pink art deco beauty. It has the kind of…
A maximalist mid-century home brought to life with colour and hard work
15 Jan 2026
There is something instantly disarming about Lina and Shipley’s home. It feels lived in, deeply loved and as the colour will tell you, unapologetically bold. The mid-century abode, originally built…
Beauty on the inside; inspired by the outside
06 Jan 2026
A simple, modern take on the traditional Kiwi bach where owners Tanja and Brett could feel like they were on holiday all the time was the brief to architect Noor…
Step into a home in harmony with nature
10 Dec 2025
Discover Waraki House on the Waimea Estuary - a serene, sustainable home by architect Jo Monaghan where Resene paint colours and natural materials blend beautifully with nature.
Nature and wellbeing provided…
A home that thrives in the dark
03 Dec 2025
This Sydney bungalow, refreshed and expanded with the help of Resene, leans into the dark side in all the right ways. Wrapped in deep, saturated tones like the earthy stone…
Pink walls and Pohutukawa dreams
12 Nov 2025
This much-loved Dunedin cottage has been recently renovated with a thoughtfully chosen Resene palette including a sweet, pastel pink and a spicy, rich red, bringing new life and personality to…
DIY garden makeovers: Inspiring projects to refresh your outdoor oasis
01 Sep 2025
Check out these clever garden projects using Resene paints. From bright obelisks to a vibrant Japanese-inspired garden and a bold water tank, these ideas might be just the inspiration you…
Warm neutrals and blush hues bring this Oratia home to life
22 Oct 2025
Resene Truffle and Resene Shabby Chic takes centre stage in this gorgeous Oratia abode. It’s a modern home designed to reflect the beauty of its lush surroundings. Stepping away from…
From shaky ground to solid hues
17 Sep 2025
For Angela and Mark Godenho and their three children Alice, George and Jack, home has always been a place to nurture growth, embrace joy and hold strong through challenges.
After…
A colourful life in Clareville
11 Sep 2025
When Jane and her family bought their brand new home in Clareville, just out of Carterton, it came with a typical blank canvas interior. Walls painted in a safe, simple…
Transform your dining space: Four stylish designs to inspire your next refresh
01 Sep 2025
Dining spaces aren’t just for eating. They’re for laughing until your cheeks hurt, sharing stories over second helpings and making memories that outlast the meal. The right dining space invites…
Home is where the colour is
19 Aug 2025
There’s nothing shy about Samantha McKeown’s home, but that’s exactly how she likes it. Painted top to bottom in cheerful Resene colours, it’s a rural retreat that fully leans into…
Seven years and one beautiful home
11 Aug 2025
“I can’t tell you how nice it is to live in a finished home – that we’re about to sell!” It’s the kind of line that captures the bittersweet end…
A hillside haven with coastal warmth
23 Jul 2025
This coastal home, on a hillside near Lyttelton, is all about serenity and balance. With sweeping views of the ocean and a backdrop of bush-covered hills, you could say this…
A mid-century home with a twist
08 Jul 2025
Earlier this year, Alex moved into what she calls a “great-bones-but-recently-unloved 1970s home with understated mid-century character”. Although her aim was more of a thoughtful refresh than a full overhaul,…
Barbie’s dream house
19 Jun 2025
When Naomi Robbins walked through the doors of her grandmother’s Mount Maunganui home, she saw more than just retro charm and sun-soaked views – she saw potential. With its stone…
Paint it Green: Hue knew your home could look this good?
05 Jun 2025
Once the colour of avocado bathrooms and shag carpet, green has well and truly shed its retro skin. Now it’s one of the most versatile shades in home design –…
Home as art: Walls that double as a canvas
29 May 2025
In the world of home design, walls are no longer just backdrops, they’re becoming canvases for self-expression, creativity and bold design. From vibrant murals to intricate special finishes, the possibilities…
Make your rental your own: Interior designer Vanya Wilkinson shows us how it’s done
22 May 2025
When Vanya Wilkinson signed the lease on a small 1800s workingman's cottage in Auckland’s Freemans Bay the tired matte cream paintwork and worn surfaces might have put off most renters.…
An artistic eye for colour: Setting the stage for an extraordinary home gallery
30 Apr 2025
This elegant, art-filled home was painted almost like a canvas itself – with every Resene colour carefully chosen to complement and elevate the homeowners’ impressive personal collection. Rather than simply…
Beneath the mountain’s gaze: A home built for the view and the future
10 Apr 2025
Architect Sophie Bishop has brought a dark and moody dream home to life at the foot of Maungarei, Mount Wellington, using bold Resene colours in a design that embraces its…
A home designed with heart, soul and just the right shades of colour
27 Mar 2025
When homeowners Lynn and Keith embarked on their first new build, they were excited but also overwhelmed by the challenge of incorporating their diverse collection of furniture and art into…
A playful palette: 70s meets modern in this home makeover
12 Mar 2025
For Christy and Simon, giving their home a refresh wasn’t just about updating the look – it was about reimagining the space entirely. With a modern 70s-inspired vision, the couple…
A colourful comeback for a 1970s townhouse
05 Mar 2025
Huddled in a row of 18 dual townhouses built in 1972, Ann’s home is a charming example of 1970s design, refreshed with charming neutrals and the gorgeous blue of Resene…
The artful home of Rachel Rush
12 Feb 2025
When Rachel and Graham set out to build their dream home, they had one goal in mind: to make a vision they both shared a reality. With a love for…
The southern charm of Silky Oak Ranch
30 Jan 2025
When Susanne and her family moved into their mid-1990s colonial-style home in Palmerston North, it was clear they’d found something special. Resting on a picturesque 5-acre lifestyle block, the house,…
A palette of personality: Becka’s 1970s home makeover
15 Jan 2025
Nestled in the charm of 1970s design, Becka’s home is a celebration of light, colour and personality. With its unique architectural features – wall arches, wood panelling, a grand arch…
Superior exteriors: Colour is key to creating a home with street style
15 Jan 2025
Painting or staining your home’s exterior might seem like an enormous task but there’s nothing quite like the street appeal of a freshly painted or stained house or the sense…
Higgs Rest: A rustic retreat with eclectic charm
17 Dec 2024
Nestled in the tranquil countryside of Spring Grove, Higgs Rest is the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern elegance. After living in the property on and off for the…
From blank walls to bold statements: Alisha’s vision for a happy and restorative home
28 Nov 2024
After the trials of the pandemic and raising four preschoolers, Alisha found herself in need of a creative outlet. When her tenant vacated her cosy one-bedroom rental in Palmerston North,…
Country connections
23 Oct 2024
Harking back to a more relaxed way of living has become more familiar over the past few years. With many choosing to shift to the country away from the hustle…
The charming transformation of a French country home
23 Oct 2024
Tucked among a grove of large trees on a generous 2200m² site, this French country home, originally built in the late 1930s as a farm cottage, boasts unique character and…
A 1940s cottage gets a new life with the perfect colour palette
16 Oct 2024
Interior designer Stacey Gillies and her architect husband purchased a run-down 1940s cottage in Birkenhead, overlooking the Chelsea Sugar Refinery. Despite the home’s state, the city and harbour views made…
Dressed to impress: Exterior colour done right
02 Oct 2024
When it comes to creating the perfect first impression, the exterior of your home speaks volumes. Whether you’re looking to evoke modern sophistication, vintage charm or classic appeal, the right…
Pastel perfection: The colourful canvas of Bridget’s dream home
02 Oct 2024
Bridget and her family’s 1930’s weatherboard farmhouse in New Plymouth is a celebration of colour and vintage charm. With sweeping 180-degree views of the ocean and Mount Ruapehu in the…
Stunning bathroom and powder room ideas – plus our top tips!
25 Sep 2024
Bathrooms and powder rooms are more than just functional spaces – they’re areas of your home that can make a big design statement. Whether you want a relaxing retreat or…
A timeless transformation: Modernising a traditional bungalow
17 Sep 2024
When interior designer Rose Schwarz of Schwarz Design was invited to revamp a tired bungalow, the brief was clear. The client wanted a fresh look, a new kitchen and a…
Step inside this revamped 70s brick home
03 Sep 2024
David and Nicola’s two-story 70s brick home was a classic with strong bones, but in dire need of a modern makeover. Using a carefully selected palette of Resene paints, interior…
From gloomy dark to vintage delight: A 1973 unit transformed
27 Aug 2024
Nestled in a peaceful Lower Hutt neighbourhood, Lesley’s home has had a bright and cheery transformation thanks to the nostalgic Resene paint colours she chose. The 1973 two-bedroom unit, built…
Peek inside a 1930s character home that's anything but ordinary
22 Aug 2024
When Erin and Greg first laid eyes on their Timaru home, it was love at first sight. "We knew instantly upon entering that this was our new home," Erin recalls.…
Building a dream home in the City of Sails
24 Jul 2024
Helen and Ray recently brought their long-held dream to life when they completed their very own home in the Auckland suburb of Ōrākei. With the plan always to build new…
Art and soul: A 1910 villa with an unexpected colour scheme
10 Jul 2024
Artist Catherine Robert’s revival of a run-down 1910’s Wellington villa was a labour of love, patience and self-expression. She was intent on injecting love and personality back into the house…
A colour maximalist's dream: Inside a dazzling 1980s home transformation
20 Jun 2024
This architect-designed home, built in 1989 for a Russian client, is a unique treasure where modernism meets brutalism. Although tired and run down, Nadene and Sam, immediately fell in love…
A villa transformation: Breathing life into a family home
28 May 2024
With a growing family at hand, these homeowners desperately needed more space, as well as some colour and life injected into their villa. Alongside some structural changes, gentle blues and…
She’s done it again! See how Priyanka has transformed this home into a luxurious sanctuary
01 May 2024
Architectural and interior designer Priyanka Sareen from Home Factor knows just how to create a cosy yet elegant home. Her use of Resene paints continues to wow her clients and this…
Breaking the mould: Inside Emilie and Hugh's colourful home
24 Apr 2024
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…
Fire and ice: The inspiration for an art and travel lover’s small but vibrant home
11 Apr 2024
There are few moments in your life that can be described as pure, unbridled awe. For Meg, one moment was seeing the pure white and intense cerulean and deep blues…
A day for colour: Our most vibrant and dazzling designs yet!
21 Mar 2024
Today might just be Resene’s favourite day of the year – it’s International Colour Day! International Colour Day was created to celebrate all things colour, and who loves colour more…
A decade of dreams: How love, patience and colour created a forever home
13 Mar 2024
Purchased in 2009, this three-level home nestled on one-and-a-half acres of land has become a true labour of love for its owners.
Carlene Duffy, homeowner and interior designer at Cedar +…
From generations past to present: Heritage with a contemporary edge
15 Feb 2024
Rooted in family history spanning four generations, the brief for this home was to breathe new life into the residence while maintaining the authenticity of its original architecture. Fresh Resene…
A symphony of colours: Bauhaus inspired makeover in Wellington
05 Feb 2024
Inspired by a woman they had never met, the homeowners of this 1950s home embarked on a colourful journey through time.
Visitors to Ann Shelton and Duncan Munro’s Wellington home often…
Home comforts: Leave stress at the front door
31 Jan 2024
As we begin the new year and get back into our busy lives it’s important to ensure we have a space that is comfortable and enjoyable to live in. Leave…
A serene villa adorned in timeless greens and whites
31 Jan 2024
A traditional villa with a striking modern extension has found harmony through its combination of Resene greens and whites.
The owners of this serene Auckland villa are hardworking professionals with two…
Te Atatū Peninsula bungalow undergoes a stunning makeover
24 Jan 2024
The interior of this quaint bungalow in Te Atatū Peninsula stood untouched for years until artist Kate Hursthouse took the reins of its transformation. After three years of residing in…
Colour Connection: How to create a harmonious space using colour
24 Jan 2024
How easy it is to fall in love with colour. Who wouldn’t get a mood-boost in a room painted in Resene Outrageous, a bright orange and a dose of pure,…
A rural masterpiece
10 Jan 2024
This interior designer with a love of animals and a master’s in art curated a beautiful palette of Resene whites and neutrals to turn a rambling rural property into a…
An Ōrewa townhouse transformed into an award-winning coastal oasis
28 Nov 2023
In the heart of Ōrewa, where ocean views and picturesque landscapes surround every window, you’ll find a townhouse that’s had a remarkable transformation. With an open brief, talented interior designer…
Classic meets contemporary in this stunning Sydney home
25 Oct 2023
The process of turning a house into a home is a journey filled with creativity, innovation and an eye for detail. Interior designer Julieanne Henry was tasked with breathing new…
From historic hotel to home: Neil Finn-House's amazing apartment renovation
10 Oct 2023
Neil Finn-House, CEO of Mitre 10 MEGA in Dunedin, embarked on an exciting journey to transform his 130-square-metre, three-bedroom apartment in Central Dunedin. This apartment, a part of a former…
A dreamy makeover for an Invercargill villa
04 Oct 2023
The charming city of Invercargill, at the southern tip of New Zealand, boasts a rich history filled with elegant villas that have stood the test of time. One such villa…
A modern twist on a traditional villa
27 Sep 2023
If you've ever wondered what it takes to turn a small three bedroom, one bathroom villa into a modernised four bedroom, three bathroom family haven, then this incredible home transformation…
From Tūī's eyes to home design: A nature inspired wonder in Wānaka
20 Sep 2023
Ever wondered how the Tūī bird experiences the world? This designer’s vision of a Wānaka home sought to emulate the world through the eyes of the Tūī in their architectural…
Elegant and functional: The transformation of a Christchurch home
14 Sep 2023
When Charlotte Van der Wielen, Creative Director of City Style Co., and her husband purchased a home on Fendalton Road in Christchurch back in 2019, they immediately saw its potential.…
Reviving mid-century elegance: A home transformed with timeless shades
30 Aug 2023
Nestled amidst the tree-lined streets in Mt Eden, Auckland, is a 1960s mid-century gem that has undergone a remarkable transformation. Homeowner Amy and her family worked hard to revive the…
Alex Fulton's trendy beach house is bursting with colour and creativity
24 Aug 2023
Driven by her vision for a hip beach barn, Alex Fulton, an admired interior designer, took on the challenge of transforming this once tired and dark space into a vibrant,…
Splashes of magic: A look inside an out-of-this-world home
15 Aug 2023
Stepping through the doors of Laura and Krispin home in Te Awamutu is an out-of-this-world experience. There’s a ‘moonscape’ in the landing area near the front door (actually, an original…
Hello sunshine: A bold remodel of a Wellington deco-styled home
19 Jul 2023
Here’s a challenge: Stop smiling as you walk up to Ann and Matt’s home. The exterior is painted in elegant Resene Double Malta, teamed with a front door in Resene…
From neglected to coastal chic: The stunning renovation of a Queensland worker's cottage
11 Jul 2023
When Jared and Sarah bought their 1930s home in Burleigh Heads, its mood was anything but coastal chic. The living room featured pink walls and matted, purple carpet; its kitchen…
Craftcore: A new trend in home decor for the DIY enthusiast
13 Jun 2023
In an era of mass production and digital innovations, where technology reigns supreme, a remarkable trend has quietly emerged, breathing new life into the world of craftsmanship. Craftcore is a…
An enchanting 114-year-old villa transformation: From tired to timeless
30 May 2023
Amber and John’s Christchurch home has a youthful glow. The 114-year-old double-bay villa is resplendent with thistle-detailed cornices and blooming ceiling roses, a timeless quality not lost on the couple,…
Inside the home of stylist extraordinaire Shelley Ferguson: A budget-friendly transformation
23 May 2023
You may know Shelley Ferguson for many things, including her appearance on TV shows like TV3’s The Block NZ, her skills as an award-winning stylist and even her role as…
An office transformed into a beautiful and functional family home
17 May 2023
When Tina and her family saw their now home advertised on Trade Me as an office, they saw potential right away. Upon viewing the structure, Tina immediately felt that she…
Hamptons meets the countryside: A winning combination for this converted barn house
10 May 2023
Amalia and Matt bought a barn shed in 2014 with a vision to transform it into a modern Hamptons style barn house. Using bold greys like Resene Ironsand and gentle…
Beyond the ordinary: A home adorned in bold colours
04 May 2023
Homeowners Jon and Natasha wanted a home that was exciting, spacious and social, with pops of bold colour throughout. With a joint effort from kitchen designer Alison (Ali) Withers and…
The royal treatment: Luxurious decorating ideas for your home
26 Apr 2023
Leading up to the King’s coronation we have put together some royal inspired interior looks to fit the mood. This style is often characterised by its luxurious and ornate features…
See the colours that made this ex-rental a bright and brilliant home
26 Apr 2023
With the housing market booming, the cost to buy new was above Krystal and Michael Brown’s price range, so they thought outside the box and found an ex-rental property to…
Reviving a traditional bungalow: An elegant and timeless design for a Ponsonby home
19 Apr 2023
As with many older homes, especially those that haven’t been renovated in over 50 years, there are often unforeseen hurdles. Interior designer, Katie Scott, doesn’t let this stop her creating…
Nature's moody hues: A home that reflects its alpine surroundings
13 Apr 2023
Architectural and interior designer at Home Factor, Priyanka Sareen, has done it again. With an array of soft and bold Resene paint colours, she drew inspiration from the natural environment…
A modern twist on a 1930s bungalow: Mid-century meets Hollywood glam
04 Apr 2023
In this home revisited, we saw a couple who had moved back from San Francisco where they lived in a very colourful home. Homeowners Mel and Joe wanted to ensure…
Simple scheme, broad appeal: A brick and weatherboard home transformed
29 Mar 2023
When this 1960s brick and weatherboard home was bought by owner Tom, it lacked the character and charm it deserved. Seeking help from interior designer Kate Alexander, fresh Resene neutrals…
From disrepair to dream home: Rachel Covey transforms a forgotten house
08 Mar 2023
Nestled in a quiet suburb in Dunedin, this home stands tall and proud looking out over the valley it sits upon. Saved from the brink of disrepair, interior designer Rachel…
A new build with old-world charm
02 Mar 2023
When David and Kirsty Wraight built their 1910-style Marlborough villa, they wanted it to exude old-world charm with hints of modern design. Resene Kensington Grey was chosen for the exterior,…
Make your garden pop with these colourful ideas
02 Mar 2023
‘Leaf’ it to us to give you some wonderful tips and inspiration to take your garden to the next level. All you need are some Resene paints in your favourite…
A 100-year-old villa restored with modern charm
22 Feb 2023
With a history of more than 100 years, this quaint villa in sunny Nelson deserved more than its once trendy ’70s’ style décor. Barbara Lawson, interior designer and owner of…
Effortless elegance: A home in timeless neutrals
15 Feb 2023
White and neutral interiors are always a popular choice in our homes. They create a calm, serene, and timeless feel, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a…
Cape Cod meets modern industrial in this stunning seaside home
08 Feb 2023
Nestled behind the sand dunes of Papamoa, this contemporary two-story new-build soaks up the ever-changing seascape and coastline. With a mix of delicate and bold Resene paint colours, interior designer…
70s home makeover with an earthy colour scheme
02 Feb 2023
When Lisa and Toby Morse purchased their home, the back of two 1970s units in Merivale several years ago, it was dated, tired and overgrown. With the help of some…
6 ways to make the most of small spaces
25 Jan 2023
Do you find yourself walking past a dull corner or room in your house and wonder what you can do with such a small space? Or perhaps you have a…
Christy and Simon’s dream home in St Clair
25 Jan 2023
Buying a house can be tricky, especially when you can’t find one that ticks off everything on your dream home checklist. Seeking a specific design and layout to complement their…
Nordic themed home inspired by the many shades of Wānaka
18 Jan 2023
The ever changing colours of Lake Wānaka and the surrounding mountains inspired architectural and interior designer Priyanka Sareen to design this alpine retreat. Resene had just the colours for her…
A fresh start for homeowners in nature-inspired home built following the Christchurch earthquakes
11 Jan 2023
When the owners of an earthquake damaged homestead in Christchurch came to Jackie Nicholls for help with their new build’s interior, they knew they asked the right person. Jackie is…
Top stories for 2022: From restored villas to blue-themed rooms and inspiring neutrals, these are our most-popular reads this year
20 Dec 2022
As the year draws to a close, it’s time to revisit habitat readers’ most read stories of 2022. From villa makeovers to a whimsical gingerbread home and tips for trying…
A coastal home with a creative neutral palette is renovated on time and under budget
19 Dec 2022
There’s a pocket on the eastern-most coast of Auckland where the weather is a law unto itself. Rain can be pummelling the farmland two kilometres away, while these coastal residents…
Resene Cinderella stories -– Before and after exterior transformations
18 Dec 2022
Happy-ever-after stories aren’t just reserved for fairy tales. These exterior home transformations show that even grand old dames can become belles of the ball with a touch of Resene colour.
Fit…
A landscape designer has found her peace in the gentle green space between bush and sea
19 Dec 2022
It’s impossible to count the many different shades of green that appear in Claire Talbot’s garden. It’s a kaleidoscope, the likes of which appear only on Resene colour charts. Painters…
A Hamptons themed tiny home designed by lady tradies creates affordable luxury
08 Dec 2022
In a world obsessed with bigger is better, tiny can be truly beautiful. Two women are on a mission to find a solution to the housing affordability issues and their…
Blushing with pride, interior stylist Amber Armitage has a modern take on classic Kiwi bach colours
01 Dec 2022
During the uncertainty of the pandemic, Amber Armitage knew one thing for certain when she saw a real estate listing for a home in Mangawhai - she had to buy…
Fully furnished brand new house in Whitianga up for grabs in the Heart Foundation Lottery
10 Nov 2022
Have you dreamed of relocating to the seaside or owning a bach in a New Zealand hot spot. The Heart Foundation lottery is giving one lucky person that chance to…
Pauanui surfer riding a wave of success after a bach makeover
10 Nov 2022
This bach in Pauanui is definitely a surfer’s paradise. When Danny purchased the small two-bedroom cottage located near the sea and the golf course he knew it had the potential…
The winner of Tiny House of the Year is dark and delightful in Resene Half Nocturnal
02 Nov 2022
Small homes don’t need to be white and big design ideas definitely come in small packages. The winning design for New Zealand Tiny House of the Year 2022 is only…
Hours of hard yakka and DIY spirit transform a small 1950s home for a family of six
27 Oct 2022
When Kelly and Travis first put a formal offer in on a damp former rental home in Christchurch, they immediately got cold feet. Renovating the 1952 weatherboard and concrete tile…
Jurassic world: This gorgeous home featuring four lush Resene greens was transformed in just six weeks
19 Oct 2022
Vanessa’s obsession with Resene colours started with an unlikely dinosaur green, transforming her stark white Christchurch home into an enigmatic, opulent space, a project showing first-hand the beauty that can…
Spring into action: Get your outdoor areas ready for summer
05 Oct 2022
Dust off your DIY and maintenance skills, it’s that time of year when we all race outside to enjoy some warmer weather and realise there’s some work to do to…
In classic 70s fashion, this Arrowtown holiday home croons Colour my World
29 Sep 2022
In classic 70s fashion, this Arrowtown holiday home croons Colour my World
If the 1990s was grunge and the 1980s was big hair, then the 1970s was all about earthy colours.…
Townhouse undergoes creative transformation with Resene wood stains and stenciled interiors
22 Sep 2022
When Katherine bought her two-story townhouse in 2113, she almost needed to wear sunglasses indoors, so bright was the interior decor.
“Everything was pink – every wall, every trim, door and…
From 70s funk to modern haven with three different Resene greens
15 Sep 2022
When Alex and Brendon walked into their 70s home for the first time, they immediately saw charm and potential – even though the property had some quirks. When the couple…
Cottage-like charm of former state house brought to life with Resene neutrals
08 Sep 2022
The potential of this 1970s former state house in Wellington’s Hutt Valley was immediately obvious to Liam and Taylor Archibald when they first laid eyes on it in 2020. “When…
How bold Resene Surfs Up blue converted Melissa to become a colour-lover
01 Sep 2022
When Melissa’s six-year-old son Logan pointed to a bright cobalt blue and said, ‘that’s the new colour of my walls’, she wasn’t sure what to say. “He wanted a blue…
Three’s The Block NZ: Master bedrooms and ensuites revealed
24 Aug 2022
This week on Three’s The Block NZ, teams were tasked with completing their master bedroom and ensuite space. Judges were impressed this week with the teams’ use of Resene colours…
Renovation masters Alice and Caleb at it again: A stunning Orewa home makeover
22 Aug 2022
Returning to the site of their first ever home renovation was both surreal and sentimental for DIY experts Alice and Caleb. “This is the first home we renovated and we…
Three’s The Block NZ: It’s living room time
18 Aug 2022
Emotions have been high this week on Three’s The Block NZ as teams are starting to feel the exhaustion and fatigue set in. The days have been long, prompting some…
This 1930s bungalow in Remuera is inspired by shades of the sea and sky
17 Aug 2022
Mel and Joe’s home in Auckland is proof you can dive into a deep blue colour palette yet still keep things light and airy. Stunning hues like Resene Raven, Resene…
Get the Barbiecore interior look and think pink
18 Aug 2022
Missing a little boldness and fun in your home? The Barbiecore interior trend has arrived. Barbie-inspired looks embrace all that is pink and takes a maximalist approach. Go glam and…
Three’s The Block NZ: Study or upstairs sitting room week
11 Aug 2022
The teams from Three’s The Block NZ had a choice this week to either create a study or sitting room in their upstairs space. Bold Resene Gunmetal features in one…
Interior designer Holly’s deep love for colour is clear looking at her front door
10 Aug 2022
A bold Resene Galliano yellow door greets roadside passers-by at Holly and Brett’s home in Taupō, and hints at playful colour use inside. The couple signed on the dotted line…
Understated coastal charm in Castlepoint with Resene Sea Fog and Resene Silver Sand
03 Aug 2022
Peer out the window of this Wairarapa Coast home and you might spy fur seals, dolphins or nesting gulls. Perched on a hilly corner in Castlepoint, this home is character-packed…
Three’s The Block NZ room reveal: Guest bedrooms are first up
27 Jul 2022
This season of Three’s The Block NZ promises to be action-packed if the first room reveal is anything to go by. The Guest Bedrooms revealed in last Wednesday’s episode of the hit Three reality…
This home shows why you shouldn’t fear using edgy Resene Black on your walls
27 Jul 2022
Arna and Dave say when it comes to picking colours and styling a home, don’t overthink it. Choose what you love and you can’t go wrong. This meant bold and…
1950s ex-rental transformed into chic family home with barely there neutrals
21 Jul 2022
When Sarah moved into her Tauranga ex-rental home, it was a little on the neglected side. Despite its worn carpets and some interesting colour choices (one room a frightening deep…
Cosy wooden Wanaka home’s makeover in Resene neutrals inspired by the snowy landscape
13 Jul 2022
Enveloped by the mountains and sitting lakeside in Wanaka, Maggie and Lawrence’s home needed a colour palette to match their picturesque setting. Resene Foggy Grey and Resene Half Periglacial Blue…
Create a bedroom your child won’t grow out of
06 Jul 2022
While growth spurts might have you overhauling your child’s wardrobe each season, thankfully a well-designed bedroom doesn’t have to be outgrown quite so quickly. With a little inspiration from Resene,…
Wow, wow, wow! This 1893 villa’s Victorian-inspired colour palette is a must-see
06 Jul 2022
Rachel’s home is rich in history, having long peered out towards Auckland’s harbour on Buchanan Street. One of Devonport’s earliest villas, the iconic home’s interior has just received a head-to-toe…
Transform a room with colour: 3 interior designers dish their top tips
29 Jun 2022
It can be overwhelming or even downright intimidating figuring out how to incorporate colour into your home. Perhaps there’s a space you love but you know it could do with…
Country style by the sea: This subtropical home in the heart of the Bay of Islands could be yours in the Heart Foundation Lottery
29 Jun 2022
Kerikeri is a town with the best of both worlds. It may appear as a quiet country town to some, but with a rich history and welcoming community, it’s becoming…
Small wonders: Teeny House winners revealed!
23 Jun 2022
The winners of the Habitat by Resene Teeny House Competition show that size doesn’t matter when it comes to creativity and style. Decorators young and old entered the competition which…
A photograph from space inspired the colours in this 1920s bungalow
23 Jun 2022
Palmerston North homeowners Bridget and William haven’t shied away from bold use of colour in their 1920s character bungalow – bright Resene turquoises, yellows and deep blues feature throughout. “We’ve…
Creative family’s eclectic home nestled in the Karangahake Gorge
09 Jun 2022
After living off-grid on their land in the Karangahake Gorge for five years, Roshan and Metuisela felt it was time for something new. With busy working lives and their children…
Devonport villa’s refresh shows why a cohesive colour palette is key
02 Jun 2022
Sometimes small changes can make a huge difference, especially when it comes to choosing neutral paint colours. The theme of this Auckland villa’s facelift was light, bright and modern, achieved…
This Californian bungalow in Northland is pretty in pink
26 May 2022
It’s hard not to smile when you see Tanya’s front door. Resene New York Pink brings a slice of the Big Apple to Whangarei which hints at further colour to…
Friluftsliv: The Scandi interior trend taking the world by storm
26 May 2022
Friluftsliv is a Norwegian philosophy making a big impact in interiors– even if most people don’t know how to say it. Pronounced ‘free-loofts-liv’, the phrase loosely translates to ‘free air…
Know your blues: Eight dreamy blues to consider (and how to pick one for your home)
19 May 2022
There’s nothing that sets a mood in a room like blue does. An incredibly versatile colour, blue can be refreshing, tranquil or moody. Its numerous shades can work as a…
The 100-year-old Nelson villa restored by renovation masters, Alice and Caleb
19 May 2022
Alice and Caleb are certainly no strangers to a challenging DIY project – sledgehammers, paint brushes and power tools have been at the ready for the last decade. The couple…
Inside a whimsical Nelson ‘Gingerbread House’ from the 1860s
12 May 2022
Gemma and Jeremy’s wee home in Nelson is packed with character – and characters. Flamingoes, parrots and flowers from the Resene Wallpaper Collection rub shoulders with Crown Lynn swans, vintage…
A California bungalow damaged in the Christchurch earthquakes, is now sitting pretty in Japandi-style soft neutrals
05 May 2022
Liesbeth and Ewout’s Californian bungalow built in 1934 once sat four kilometres down the road from its current location. The couple, originally from the Netherlands, bought the home when they…
This Horowhenua mum painted her entire home green – and the result is epic!
28 Apr 2022
It was a comment from a friend that set Foxton’s Jinel on a very green-toned path before painting her home. “I love green, and I’d often say before we renovated…
Goth but make it glam: Creative couple go to the dark side with Resene Double Foundry and Resene Permanent Green
21 Apr 2022
Before Frankie had even moved into her new Auckland home with her partner Max, she knew what Resene paint colour would be splashed on every wall. She’d eagerly mapped out…
Six satisfying home makeover jobs for the long weekend
14 Apr 2022
This longweekend is the perfect time to tackle a little home improvement. Give your home a glow up with Resene paint, there’s nothing more satisfying than standing back to admire…
Renovation of dilapidated villa is a master class in how to use neutral paint colours
13 Apr 2022
When Bridget and Tom bought their grand old villa on top of a sunny hill in Whanganui it was never intended to be their forever home. Instead, they planned to…
Two colourful SheSheds decorated with Resene
30 Mar 2022
Small cabin solutions with SheShed
Beachy keen
When Lea decided to create a garden studio which could also double as a sleepout for her teenage daughter, she pulled out all the stops…
An interior designer’s modern twist on her 1920s bungalow
30 Mar 2022
Until recently, interior designer Sonja Low’s 1920s bungalow was decked out in aging 80s apricots and faded yellows. Rolling up her sleeves, Sonja got to work modernising the family home…
Peaceful Auckland bungalow makes a bold statement in the living room
23 Mar 2022
Jenny’s painter thought she was crazy when she told him she was painting her Auckland bungalow’s living room a steely charcoal. Thankfully, the end result in Resene Half Foundry sings…
Get the Bridgerton look with these Regencycore inspired trends
24 Mar 2022
Whether you’ve delved into the TV genre of period dramas or not, Regency era interiors are all the rage and are here for us to take a little opulent inspiration…
A 1930s Californian bungalow in Nelson bursts at the seams with colour and character
17 Mar 2022
Guests at Mark and John’s Nelson California bungalow never have any trouble finding their address, all they need to do is look out for the bright red letterbox. Resene Havoc…
A run down 1900s villa finds soul and sophistication with a monochrome makeover
09 Mar 2022
Closing the deal on a derelict 100-year-old villa marked the beginning of a long and winding renovation road for New Plymouth’s Gina and Rick. When they bought the neglected villa…
An enchanting cottage garden with a cute-as-a-button Shepherd's Hut
03 Mar 2022
A cottage garden is a peculiar choice for a perfectionist. Puriri Lane Garden in Drury is like something from a fairy tale, with delicate blooms such as cosmos, nigella and…
This Arts and Crafts style home masters the use of Resene whites and neutrals
02 Mar 2022
It was the elegant character of its street frontage that made Malcolm and Gay fall in love with their house in Devonport on Auckland’s North Shore back in 2015. Using…
A tropical sanctuary with Resene Double Alabaster 15 years in the making
24 Feb 2022
Fifteen years is a long time to dream of renovating your house. But for Leisa and her husband Keith it gave them plenty of time to thoroughly plan the Resene…
A new build that’s both chic and family-friendly with Resene Black White and Resene Wafer and a cute-as a-button play kitchen for the kids
17 Feb 2022
When Jessica and Nick Robinson built their home in Rolleston, near Christchurch they made sure every detail was just how they dreamed it will be. This included designing two kitchens:…
An 80s-build gets a colour injection with Resene Indian Ink and Resene Green Meets Blue in an interior designer’s own home
10 Feb 2022
Interior designer Carley Lloyd has a passion for colour – and in ten months she and husband Bryn have transformed a formerly beige 80s-build into a brand new look, with…
A kaleidoscope of colour creates the ‘wow’ factor in a 72 sqm apartment
02 Feb 2022
When Lynette first viewed the Mt. Maunganui flat she would eventually buy, she knew it wouldn’t be staying Resene Tea for very long.
No, for Lynette, bold colour is far…
One of the oldest villas in the country gets a fresh look with bold and beautiful Resene colours
19 Jan 2022
One of the country’s oldest homes is looking good for another century in fresh coats of Resene paint inside and out. Kohukohu Villa in historic Hokianga, Northland was built as…
Five colour and style trends we’re going to see everywhere in 2022
12 Jan 2022
As 2022 gets underway, nature is inspiring all areas of interior design, from botanical prints and natural materials to paint colours. The desire for calming and restful interiors that counter…
A transitional villa in colours of the rainbow is a real show-stopper
12 Jan 2022
“Why are people so afraid of colour?” Fiona wonders. Fiona has no such qualms and has embraced the Resene rainbow for her dazzling home of many colours. No one needs…
Top stories for 2021: From Resene Duck Egg blue to Peter Wolfkamp’s cottage, these are some of our most-read stories this year
23 Dec 2021
Top stories for 2021: From Resene Duck Egg blue to Peter Wolfkamp’s cottage, these are some of our most-read stories this year
As the year ends, it’s time to take stock,…
Eight Resene dark greens and how to use them
16 Dec 2021
Green is a colour that can evoke powerful emotion, it’s a dominant colour in nature associated with renewal and life and so represents harmony, balance and peace. And who doesn’t…
A country bungalow gets a second life with gorgeous greys and youthful blues and greens
15 Dec 2021
When Chrissie and Tony Kavanagh moved to Cambridge with their two daughters, they loved the heritage feel of the Waikato town. They found their dream house in a hundred-year-old bungalow…
A city warehouse where home living, work and play are defined by colour
09 Dec 2021
Working at home is the trending topic of 2021 - and nothing suits business consultant Cath Vincent and music producer Aron Neale better than working in their own 1950s converted…
A Melbourne grande dame gets a graceful colour makeover with Resene Merino and Greek-inspired blues
02 Dec 2021
Adding a touch of the Santorini vibe to their home was a must for this couple of Greek heritage, Nikki and Steve Koutspis. After all, the Melbourne couple eloped to…
How to create the beach-house vibe with shades of the coast
25 Nov 2021
It’s a look that never dates – the washed blues, seafoam greens and subtle shades of white that together create the easy, breezy beach-house style.
The coastal spirit starts with paint.…
What a transformation: This charming 159-year-old Victorian cottage gets a peaceful modern makeover
18 Nov 2021
Tindalls Cottage in Berry was once the home of the town’s first mayor, James Wilson. But while it started its life in 1862 as the pride of the small village…
Life in a show home: Meet the young family living in this colourful Cambridge show home
04 Nov 2021
Hannah and Malachi are taking working from home to a stylish extreme. With a flurry of interruptions to their business due to covid, the husband and wife team – who…
Derelict to delightful: Resene Double Foundry and Marley Stratus give this bungalow timeless style
28 Oct 2021
This 1920s bungalow has had an adventurous life. With its handsome Resene Double Foundry exterior colour and matching Marley Stratus Design Series® spouting and downpipes in Grey Friars®, on first appearance…
Take it outside: Simple tips and tricks for painting the exterior of your home
27 Oct 2021
It’s a big, intimidating task, but painting your home’s exterior can instantly boost its resale value and has a huge effect on the way you feel about your home. First…
New mum of twins completes ambitious renovation with pops of dusty coral, gold and ocean blue
27 Oct 2021
If you want something done, ask a busy person, and interior and spatial designer Samantha Rei has definitely been busy in the past year. She project managed the full reconstruction…
This century-old Brisbane Queenslander is transformed into a tropical oasis with summer green Resene Edgewater and Resene Warrior
21 Oct 2021
For homeowners Maria and Roger, renovating their century-old Brisbane Queenslander helped them fall in love with the features of their heritage home. With a dark, dated interior and tired yellow…
This Morrinsville home strikes the perfect balance of functional, accessible and fabulous with feature walls in elegant Resene Foundry
14 Oct 2021
Marie’s marvellously moody home is the perfect blend of functional and fashionable. After searching for a retirement home that was suitable for a paraplegic in a wheelchair, Marie decided to…
The Block NZ’s Peter Wolfkamp creates a striking monochrome palette inside his Devonport cottage with Resene Half Merino
07 Oct 2021
The Block NZ’s site foreman Peter Wolfkamp traded the rule book for a paintbrush when he renovated his circa 1910 cottage. He and his wife Debbie rose to the challenge…
What’s black and white and red all over? This Dunedin home’s marvellous monochrome interior with pops of Resene Red Berry
30 Sep 2021
Joanne and Christopher had their work cut out for them transforming a 1970s state house for power plant workers into a monochrome family haven. With good bones, plenty of land…
5 tried and tested whites and neutrals - that make your space come together
23 Sep 2021
While we’re obsessed with Resene’s bold range of vibrant colours and daring hues, it’s often their carefully considered range of whites and neutrals that inspire homeowners when it comes to…
An empty Feilding paddock becomes a family home with an inspired moody dark grey colour palette including Resene Blue Charcoal and Resene Crowshead
23 Sep 2021
Sarah and Chris don’t do things by halves. With nothing but a few paddocks on the outskirts of Feilding and an ambitious idea, the couple embarked on the challenge of…
White done right: Shades of white and green transform this 1930s bungalow
16 Sep 2021
Interior designer Litsa Jackson has a way with white. Ever since she began her interior design business, Inside Storey, she’s loved the way the perfect white can bring a space…
How to create the perfect colourful hobby room or shed for your home
09 Sep 2021
Spending more time at home has allowed us to get more creative, take up new hobbies and rediscover old ones. With the changing landscape of working – and with working…
From bland to beautiful: This Christchurch couple filled their charcoal and pink bungalow with paintings, plants and peacefulness
02 Sep 2021
For self-confessed serial renovators Leigh and Cory, colour is everything. When the couple first bought their 1920s three-bedroom bungalow in Christchurch it was painted tip to toe in white. With…
Amazing garage ideas as seen in Three’s The Block NZ Garage & Laundry week
26 Aug 2021
It was the week to win this week on Three’s The Block NZ. With $7000 up for grabs and the chance to remove another team from room reveal, the teams…
Rustically rural: Inspiration for this Taupaki home’s enchanting blue and green feature walls is grown from nature
26 Aug 2021
Warren and his wife Louise had always dreamed of living in the country. Inspired by the classic country lodges of yesteryear, the couple decided to create their very own and…
Surprises and second chances on Three’s The Block NZ’s Do Over Week
19 Aug 2021
This was the week for second chances and do overs for the teams on Three’s The Block NZ as they inched closer towards the finish line. The teams were given the opportunity…
Elegant entrances, stairs, hallways & powder rooms from Three’s The Block NZ this week
11 Aug 2021
The skyscraper heights of the hallways were a tall order this week on Three’s The Block NZ as the teams raced to complete their entrances, stairs, hallways & powder rooms.…
Two Thumbs Up: This blue and yellow house captures the spirit of Wellington
11 Aug 2021
Walking into Ann and Matt’s Wellington home is like stepping into a giant version of the Wellington’s iconic Bucket Fountain. Playful and fun, the couple’s home makes a splash by…
Find out which fabulous family room took out the top prize on Three’s The Block NZ this week
05 Aug 2021
What a week on Three’s The Block NZ! The teams were under the pump to finish their family rooms and used luscious green Resene Middle Earth and elegant Resene Stack…
A gate to remember: A garden that pops with colour in Hurunui
13 Aug 2021
When Meg calls her Hurunui home a “do-up”, she just might be making the understatement of the year. When she and her husband, Tom, moved in 30 years ago, the…
Picture perfect: How to create a gallery wall for any type of artwork
05 Aug 2021
They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but a wall of pictures can take you on a journey. The trend of creating gallery-style walls has been taken to…
Moving on in Merlin’s Requiem: Wallpapers star in this home renovation which celebrates singledom
05 Aug 2021
When Caroline’s partner of five years left there was only one thing to do; completely renovate her house. Caroline says she coloured herself happy using everything from hand-crafted Masons wallpaper…
See what’s cooking in the drool-worthy kitchen & dining rooms on Three’s The Block NZ
29 Jul 2021
The teams were busy cooking up some creative designs on Three’s The Block NZ this week as they tackled their kitchen & dining rooms. With a packed schedule and grand…
7 kitchen designers share their top kitchen design tips and Resene colour choices
29 Jul 2021
We’ve rounded up some of the most drool-worthy kitchens and their talented designers to bring you a smorgasbord of advice to spice up your kitchen with colour. With a sprinkle…
A former sailmaker’s shed becomes a colourful home to a creative family of five
29 Jul 2021
When Bec and Zac bought a Mapua art gallery called the Tin Shed in 2013 they kept the building’s creative spirit alive as they converted it into their colourful family…
From derelict to dreamy: Solo mum uses Resene Half Sea Fog to transform this 50s home into a misty retreat
21 Jul 2021
Flood-damaged tiles, bug infestations and holes in the walls hardly sound like features of a dream home, but for solo mum Ché it was love at first sight. When the…
It’s a bathroom bonanza on Three’s The Block NZ this week
07 Jul 2021
Family Bathroom Week on Three’s The Block NZ proved to be one of the biggest weeks to date. The week was interrupted when New Zealand was plunged into level four…
A decade in the making: This 70s A-frame home’s Hamptons renovation was well worth the wait
07 Jul 2021
After a decade of living in her 70s Auckland home, Nicky Werder said bon voyage to boring and bought a ticket to happiness with fresh Resene paint. Nicky can travel…
The castle on the hill: This Whangamata home has a modern take on family living, but what’s behind the dark exterior?
01 Jul 2021
Homeowners Sara and Brendon live life on the edge. They mountain bike along steep forest trails, surf the shoulders of Whangamata’s rolling waves, and live in a house that teeters…
Three’s The Block NZ gets off to a colourful start with showstopping Guest Bedrooms
24 Jun 2021
This season of Three’s The Block NZ promises to be quite colourful if the first room reveal is anything to go by. The Guest Bedrooms revealed in last Sunday’s episode…
Shortland Street behind the scenes: Michael Galvin shares his thoughts on Chris Warner’s colourful new townhouse PLUS check out the Warner house through the ages
24 Jun 2021
On 17 May Kiwis were glued to the screen, watching in shock as Chris Warner’s house went up in smoke. Shortland Street’s drastic cliff-hanger saw the beautiful beige home of…
Auckland eco home built from recycled power poles is splashed with vibrant Resene yellows and rocky coast greys
24 Jun 2021
The environment is at the heart of Joe and Peta’s stunning home in Mangere Bridge, Auckland — from the upcycled building materials used in construction to the interior and exterior…
Goodbye white, hello colour: A daring blue/green and a dusky black transform this Oamaru home into a moody retreat
17 Jun 2021
Serial renovator and decorator Kaye was a Resene Black White devotee but her new home in Oamaru has seen her side-line her favourite white to embark on a brave new…
You wouldn’t know this oasis of calm is home to a family of seven – and a French bulldog called Frank
10 Jun 2021
Juggling five kids and a French bulldog called Frank while undergoing a renovation during a lockdown is no mean feat. When Rachel and Jarrad, who are parents to Milla (18),…
Hamptons with a country twist: This serene new build glows with touches of Resene Foggy Grey and Resene Robin Egg Blue
27 May 2021
The Hamptons are a long way from Canterbury - 15,000km away to be precise – but homeowners Nick and Sarah combined the best of both and gave the classic coastal…
From tired villa to heritage haven; Roseberry Villa shines with an update in white and charcoal
20 May 2021
Roseberry Villa got more than a makeover when Interior Designer Abbey Lang moved in – it got a new lease on life. Old and new collided in this 110-year-old villa…
Contemporary ideas to update your heritage home
20 May 2021
Modern colour palettes aren’t just for contemporary homes. Freshen up your villa or heritage home with on-trend colour combinations that are anything but old fashioned. Resene’s extensive range of interior…
How to be flaw-some: Ten perfect touch ups to help you embrace your home’s imperfections
13 May 2021
Everyone needs a bit of TLC every now and then, including our homes. It’s easy to see the flaws in our living spaces; a scuff mark here, a nail hole…
These transportable cottages provide modern living with a vintage twist
13 May 2021
David and Kirsty Wraight’s cottages aren’t just transported to you – they transport you to another time. The couple own and run David Wraight Cottages; a company that specialises in…
A derelict century-old Carterton villa is restored to its original glory (you won't believe what it used to look like)
13 May 2021
Chessa Stevens realised her childhood dream when she restored this century-old villa. As a young girl, Chessa remembers driving past the dilapidated house in her hometown of Carterton and wishing…
Rebellious colour: Rule-breaking colour combinations to try in your home
29 Apr 2021
Should red and green really never be seen? Will brown and blue really never do? The old colour rhyme rules have been around for years, but sometimes ‘rules’ are made…
This artist’s Brisbane home is so colourful even the 85m fence is an elegant rainbow
28 Apr 2021
Artist and colour consultant Kelly Southee isn’t on the fence about using colour in her Brisbane home. Originally from Upper Hutt, Kelly’s new home on the outskirts of the Toohey…
This classic Mt Maunganui Art Deco treasure sparkles with an exotic update
22 Apr 2021
Interior designer Lorraine Brennan felt a weight of responsibility on her shoulders when she renovated her Mt Maunganui home, Trouville. Built in 1945 in an Art Deco style, Trouville was…
Keep calm and paint it Duck Egg Blue: Six chic updates
14 Apr 2021
There’s no need to feel blue when it comes to repainting your home. Marie Antoinette didn’t when she covered her private boudoir in Versailles with the colour duck egg blue.…
A funeral assistant looks on the bright side of life using bold Resene Scrumptious and Resene Fizz in her home
14 Apr 2021
Often, the best things come to those who paint. This was certainly the case for Kirsten and Trevor, who have taken their time renovating their Nelson home with a vivid…
Colour experts paint a Napier villa with vibrant Resene blues and yellows - and a green/white you’ll fall in love with
08 Apr 2021
When homeowner Rachael wanted to update her 140-year-old villa in Napier’s Bluff Hill, she called in the pros. Vic Bibby and Dael Brady from Napier-based interior design firm, Bibby +…
Creating the relaxing bach feeling at Flaxmill Bay Hideaway
08 Apr 2021
In Flaxmill Bay, nestled amongst three hectares of lush gardens and trees lies a cosy cottage that on first glance appears to be the quintessential bach. Except it isn’t -…
What a transformation! Elegant Resene silver greys and blues take this 1930s Takapuna home from tired to triumph
01 Apr 2021
Designer Natalie DuBois had a challenge on her hands renovating this petite 1930s semi-detached home into a family space with room to move. With windows on three sides and only…
A 1970s Lockwood is transformed into a Scandi-inspired delight with Resene Spanish White
18 Mar 2021
When Nathalie and Ross bought their 1970s era Lockwood home in 2019, they knew they had bought a quality home from a local Kiwi company. When they renovated their beautiful…
Makeup artist gives her villa a character makeover with bold pops of colour including blush pink
11 Mar 2021
Makeup artist Amber Carroll is used to transforming her clients for weddings and photoshoots, so when it came to her own she was keen to give it a bit of…
From convent to luxury lodge: The heavenly transformation of The Marlborough
04 Mar 2021
The serene feeling in the luxury hotel, The Marlborough, comes from both its exquisite colour palette as well as the building's divine history. The lodge in Rapaura began its life as…
This Governors Bay home uses a clever colour trick to link two storeys together and fill the home with warm light (that’s not too bright)
03 Mar 2021
Balance and light were at the top of Sarah Eaton’s mind when she was decorating a new home in Governors Bay, near Lyttleton. The director of Christchurch-based interior design company,…
All Black Sir John Kirwan keeps it simple with black and white bach
25 Feb 2021
All Black legend Sir John Kirwan and his wife Fiorella have a long connection with Waihi Beach so when they came to creating their dream bach they wanted to get…
Beachside cottage bought online on an impulse receives a contemporary coastal refresh while retaining original bach style
25 Feb 2021
Spontaneous home buying is not for the faint of heart but when a worn down 1950s Glenbrook Beach bach popped into her inbox it was love at first click-of-the-mouse for…
Six dining rooms that will make each meal a family celebration
18 Feb 2021
The saying may be 'home is where the heart is' but really, it's the dining room specifically that is often the beating heart of a family home. It's where we…
A 1990s home gets a nature-inspired refresh using Resene Merino and bold blues and greens
10 Feb 2021
Kitchen and interior designer Karen Warner is used to coming up with colour schemes for her clients, but she found it harder to create a brief when it came to…
7 unbelievable reader house exterior makeovers – plus house exterior painting tips
11 Feb 2021
This Christchurch home has new street appeal with a fresh coat of Resene Element and zesty Resene Hot Toddy on the garage door
7 unbelievable reader house exterior makeovers – plus…
Holiday at home: A Hurunui home inspired by international travel
16 Feb 2021
Meg and Tom have painted memories into the walls of their home. Well, Meg did all the painting, but Tom, who has been busy on their Hurunui cattle and sheep…
Smart and colourful solutions for supersizing your kitchen storage capabilities.
04 Feb 2021
The ply millwork and ceiling in this kitchen, designed by Strachan Group Architects (SGA), lets the beauty of the woodgrain shine through in Resene Colorwood Natural wood stain and looks…
The perfect neutrals: This seaside home is anchored by a simple but stunning grey palette
04 Feb 2021
"Know the rules to break the rules,” is Nicky Scott’s interior design motto. Their 1920s bungalow has been home to the interior designer and her partner Andrew, and their two…
Going, going gone: Expert shares décor and colour tips that will help sell your home
28 Jan 2021
Considering selling your house? Interior designer Meisha Campbell has styled many homes for customers who are putting their homes on the market. She shares her top tips for attracting potential…
Oh la la! A maximalist’s colourful home inspired by 18th Century France
27 Jan 2021
Eat your heart out Marie Antoinette. Claire Crosby doesn’t do anything by halves. Her home is packed with antique treasures and painted in bold colours such as Resene Cinderella –…
Four easy-peasy colour blocking bedroom ideas from Resene Living
20 Jan 2021
The Astra Alabaster duvet set from the Resene Living range is a handsome neutral duvet set designed to work with Resene paint colours. The neutral design allows you to be…
A Kāpiti Coast home’s beachin' blue update
19 Jan 2021
Bold Resene blues add character to this Kapiti Coast home’s spectacular contemporary update.
When you’re building your ‘forever home,’ it can be difficult to design it in a way that’s forward-thinking enough…
The owners of this Banks Peninsula villa were inspired by nature with their Resene makeover
13 Jan 2021
The owners of this Banks Peninsula villa took inspiration from their natural environment when giving their home a floor-to-ceiling Resene makeover
Tucked in the Prices Valley on Canterbury’s Banks Peninsula is…
Exterior inspiration: Patio perfection in a 1930s bungalow
16 Dec 2020
Old world charm and colourful contemporary character meet at Rachel and Steven’s 1930s Auckland bungalow, which they share with their two children, Elias and Ivy. While open plan living may…
Going coastal: How to create the laid-back beachy bach look using blues and whites
17 Dec 2020
There’s nothing like getting away from it all to shed the stresses of everyday life. A change of scene with a vacation at a bach, crib or holiday house creates…
A historic Mount Eden villa gets the loving touch from an interior designer who calls her mother a client.
15 Dec 2020
When interior designer Clare Kitching set about creating a new Resene colour scheme for her mother Raewyn’s late-1800s villa, she started by reviewing her own taste.
“My mum is more of…
A Canterbury artist chooses punchy pastels and sunny-day blues to give her family’s old-school villa a fresh, modern twist.
09 Dec 2020
Old-school character was top of the list when Libby Chambers and her husband Aaron went searching for a new home. They moved into a 120-year-old villa seven years ago just…
Create peaceful and relaxed festive flair with beach-themed Christmas decorations
02 Dec 2020
For many of us, Christmas at the beach resonates more than festive scenes with snowflakes and snowmen. This year has been quite a year. Make the festive season as relaxing…
Shelley Ferguson tackles a tricky renovation to transform a tired bungalow into a stylish grey home with a modern Art Deco feel
25 Nov 2020
Shelley Ferguson has seen it all as a host on the TV3 DIY show, The Block NZ, but even she was shocked by what she encountered when she began renovations on a…
A clever renovation has infused this Auckland home with pep and personality
11 Nov 2020
There’s much to be said for decorating’s domino effect, where one alteration leads onto the next, and the next after that, in a long and beautiful chain reaction. Just ask…
Our guide to the ultimate media room
04 Nov 2020
A great media room is the sum of its parts, from the materials and colours it harbours to its curtains and, of course, its screen. It’s about those considerate details.…
A renovated Te Awamutu home that’s full of colourful surprises
28 Oct 2020
For several years Amy and Mark looked for a new home. What they wanted was clear: a new chapter that their young children, aged two and four, could grow into.…
A modern Waikato home is given an old world sensibility
30 Sep 2020
After living in a bungalow alongside their ever-growing collection of antiques, Jo and Sean began their property search five years ago wanting the scope to blend their love of history…
Phil and Emma’s revamped home is a minimalist’s paradise, with one bold twist.
23 Sep 2020
The floor-to-ceiling renovation in Emma and Phil’s late 90s home started with a simple decision to swap their curtains to blinds. Plans for a couple of easy cosmetic swaps to…
This eclectic Greytown home is a celebration of creative colour use
09 Sep 2020
Every design decision Nikki makes when decorating her Greytown home follows a simple rule: it has to be pretty and practical. Working with a lively palette of Resene colours, Nikki…
This Gulf Harbour home was brought up-to-date with a clean palette of Resene colours
02 Sep 2020
When Angela and Scott moved into their Gulf Harbour home in December 2018, the home’s interior had been pretty much untouched since it was built in 1997. But the bones…
An atmospheric paint palette gives this hardworking Hamilton house a feel-good refresh
26 Aug 2020
Anna loves her house. She’s made a lifetime of happy family memories in the Hamilton home she’s shared with husband Grieg and their children for the past eight years. In…
How to embrace your inner maximalist with a carefully curated collection
19 Aug 2020
Thanks to Marie Kondo’s ‘KonMari’ method, the successfully organised among us have managed to minimalise our homes to stark perfection. And while elegant neutral walls, soft curves and earthy, homespun…
A modern Christchurch new build with a cosy family atmosphere
19 Aug 2020
Jacqueline and Richard had one priority for their new Christchurch home: it needed to be warm. After a spate of living in cold rental homes, the couple were adamant that…
The perfect kitchen island: where form and function meet
05 Aug 2020
If you're planning a kitchen renovation or are in the process of designing a new home, you'll probably be thinking about incorporating a kitchen island. The ultimate multi-tasking space, a…
Greys and blues transform a Sandringham bungalow into a sophisticated family home
29 Jul 2020
Interior designer Jennifer Domett of Domett Design knows the power that colour has for connecting spaces. She recently pulled together a palette of shadowy Resene greys and blues to create…
How to use your art as inspiration when choosing a colour scheme
22 Jul 2020
It’s not uncommon for homeowners to finally settle on a wall colour only to be stumped on what to hang on the walls afterwards. There’s an easy solution to this,…
An earthquake-damaged home gets a modern makeover
22 Jul 2020
Ask Emma what the best decision she made during the renovation of her 1950s earthquake-damaged Christchurch home was and her answer is immediate; “the green doors.” The soft olive hue…
A 1920s family home makes an elegant return to its former glory
15 Jul 2020
Justine had a very straight forward design brief for her 1929 home; ‘return to elegance’. “It was a very beautiful house once, and I wanted to bring those elements back…
Transform your garage into a space you actually want to be in
15 Jul 2020
For most of us, if we’re lucky enough to have one, a garage starts off as a place to park our cars, bikes and lawn mower, but generally ends up…
Kelly Gammie gives her Auckland home a light and bright lift
01 Jul 2020
The last time we featured interior designer Kelly Gammie’s Auckland home, it was decorated with a blend of dark Resene neutral, hand-painted and custom coloured grasscloth wallpapers from the Resene…
Three spectacular garden sheds that do more than just store tools
24 Jun 2020
For most, a shed is a basic garden structure where we might keep our lawnmower, potting mix or general outdoor bits and bobs. But, for these three creatives, a shed…
A Helensville villa gets a charming pastel-coloured renovation
24 Jun 2020
When Tineka and Sam first set eyes on their 1990s Helensville villa a year ago, to put it lightly, “it wasn’t in the best shape,” says Tineka. But it was…
See how this 120-year-old Wellington villa finally got the renovation it deserved
08 Jun 2020
When Hannah and Tim first set eyes on, what was at the time, the worst house on one of Wellington’s most well-known streets, they knew they could restore it to…
Soothe your stress with these relaxing colour palettes
08 Jun 2020
There’s something to be said for stepping inside your home and feeling relaxed and soothed from the moment you open the door. With our increasingly busy and stressful lives, more…
Get your backyard ready for winter with these expert top tips
04 Jun 2020
The end of spring marks the beginning of a trying time for homeowners. Thanks to our favourable climate, many of us don’t have to worry about the ground freezing or…
Claire and Aaron craft an eclectic dream world out of a 1940s cottage
04 Jun 2020
Set on a large mature section nestled above Little Shoal Bay on Auckland’s North Shore is a sweet 1940s brick-fronted cottage. Now owned by Claire and Aaron, the home is…
Claire and Dave’s modern beach house brings the ocean indoors
20 May 2020
Finding the balance between beach chic and modern design can be a tricky task, but thanks to some clever designers and a carefully selected palette of Resene colours, Claire and…
Laura and Jarred bring a colour boost to this beautiful Californian bungalow
06 May 2020
With gorgeous colonial features, a rambling backyard and plenty of interior space on offer, it’s no wonder Laura and Jarred Hedwig fell in love with this 1920s Californian-style bungalow when…
Selena and Mike give this Lake Taupo cottage a charming reno
29 Apr 2020
With a light, bright interior painted in Resene Alabaster, oodles of character and views of Lake Taupo, this newly renovated cottage is a homeowner’s dream – but it wasn’t always…
Kim and Isaac’s soulful farmhouse embraces the simple life
23 Apr 2020
In 2011, Kim was ready for a change and looking for a slower pace of life, so she decided to sell her beloved Auckland villa and move to a beautiful…
Trudy and Al’s imaginative home makes and takes the cake
08 Apr 2020
For those who have had the pleasure, to meet Trudy is to love Trudy. From her fabulous ‘Ink’ and Retro-chic hairstyle to her quirky Rock-n-Roll-meets-vintage-glam clothing, Trudy oozes cool and…
A very glamorous boat house
17 Mar 2011
When the owners of this waterfront home told architect Jack McKinney that they wanted a house like a boat shed, it was a good thing that he had worked with…
Red - the colour of passion
21 Jun 2012
Hi, welcome to the new-look Habitat of the Week. I’m Sharon Newey, the editor of this and Habitat magazine, both showcasing gorgeous Resene colour. We’ll still be bringing you superb…
He loves it, she loves it, we all love it
25 Jan 2016
So you thought blue was just for the boys? Think again. Apparently it’s the least gender-specific colour around. It’s also one that inspires a feeling of trustworthiness, sincerity and peacefulness.…
Vincent and Sarah give old bones an eco twist
13 Aug 2015
A grand old home is the perfect canvas for strong Resene colour… but has posed a few problems for its sustainability-aware owners. How do you, after all, make a draughty, energy-sapping heritage home…
Lorna shares the love
25 Jul 2015
When you run a creative endeavour from home, it makes sense that your home would be a product of that creativity.
For Lorna Anderson, owner of LornaLove – an inspirational and fun interiors and craft…
Fiona goes bold and bountiful
11 May 2015
Hand on heart, we can honestly say there are few people in this world who would paint their house purple. Fiona Sheffield is one of the rare ones; her Auckland…
Be a man, get a cave
03 Jun 2014
Warning: this article will reinforce gender stereotypes. It has to. It’s about man caves.
The man cave has been around for centuries providing men with a hub in which they can…
Monde and Michael's role reversal
06 Jul 2014
For Monde Norden and her American-born husband Michael Glazer, their home overlooking Karekare beach on Auckland’s west coast seems a million miles away from the bright lights of Los Angeles.…
Danny and Lisa’s age-appropriate reno
20 May 2014
Making sure a gorgeous Edwardian villa was given age-appropriate interior colours without ending up looking like a museum was a challenge taken on by homeowners Lisa and Danny… with some…
Susan and Jeremy's life beyond white
16 Jul 2014
Sure, Susan Templer is in a lucky position. As an interior designer she has the skill to choose a range of colours for her house with confidence, and not just opt…
Debra's bold experiment with colour
23 Jul 2014
Walk into the home of Debra Yearsley, and you’ll quickly recognise her love of colour. But when the Yearsley family first moved into their 1980s plaster home, it was beige…
These are two lucky kids
21 Aug 2014
The kids were in for a treat when parents Carrie and Bryn Plimmer inherited money from a relative – both getting a colourful bedroom makeover and a fun playroom to…
Learn how to create this gorgeous study
06 Sep 2014
How far can you go with paint? A very long way, and in many creative directions as stylist extraordinaire LeeAnn Yare proved when she created this gorgeous study for Habitat.
Playing…
Kate and Dave take to the country
10 Sep 2014
Trading bright city lights for a quiet country homestead was a brave move that paid off for Kate Arbuthnot and Dave Hassan.
They made the move from central Auckland in 2008,…
Amanda’s creative cultural fusion
08 Oct 2014
In her just-released book, Green Modern, Claire McCall visits houses built for sustainability, including this Coromandel hideaway that uses VOC-free Resene paint. We have a copy of Green Modern to give…
Gay and Jon mix old and new
15 Oct 2014
A newly built home was the perfect canvas for a makeover using Resene white, black and grey.
House hunting is never an easy feat, and for most couples checking off the…
Ann and Noel mix soft with hard
30 Oct 2014
A careful blend of quiet Resene colours to sit alongside the raw beauty of plywood and concrete has resulted in a stunning home that responds to its wind-swept Wairarapa setting.
When…
2 living looks: Sandra and Nicola’s designer spaces
04 Dec 2014
The living area is the hub of any home – it’s where we spend most of our time and the place our visitors see. The style of this important space…
Living room, 3 ways
20 Nov 2014
When Trudie and Mike Nettle moved into their Hawke’s Bay home, with kids in tow, all of the walls and trims were painted in white Resene Alabaster. Trudie was keen…
Annabel and Simon bring coast to the country
08 Jan 2015
The soft greys and whites of driftwood and sand; the luminous teal blue skies of North Otago. These colours inspired the interiors of Annabel and Simon Berry’s home on the rolling…
Be inspired by nature
15 Jan 2015
Summer’s the perfect time to get in touch with life beyond the walls of our house – a walk on the beach or through the bush, a dip in the…
Create this rustic potting shed
05 Feb 2015
Create this country-style potting shed setting using dreamy grey blue tones, accented with some lively greens.
These lovely old barn-style doors are our backdrop. They’ve been given a coat of Resene…
What's your colour psyche?
12 Feb 2015
Do you love being enveloped in warm, earthy tones? Or are soft pastels more your taste? Have you ever felt uncomfortable with the colours in a room but didn't know…
Where eco meets zen
10 May 2015
When it comes to bathrooms, nothing beats a fresh scheme that’s simple and relaxing. Because bathrooms are generally small spaces, it’s good to choose a style that allows you to…
Kathy’s crew go bright and breezy
13 May 2015
Light, bright and breezy with a subtle palette of Resene colours, the Wardlaw house from TVNZ’s Our First Home is a relaxing place to be. Mick and Kathy Wardlaw teamed…
Mike and Robyn’s sun-filled Omaha beach house
06 Aug 2015
There's a natural tranquility to Mike and Robyn's home, with its sun-filled deck and open plan living area. Located in Omaha, an hour's drive from Auckland, the newly built home…
Amy’s family adds some edginess
08 May 2015
With an edgy yet polished design and a palette of Resene colours and wallpaper, the Gourley house from TVNZ’s Our First Home is rich with creative touches. Al and Anne…
Jan’s off-the-wall home design
13 Aug 2015
This house is all about texture… and unexpected use of Resene colour. Where a bold red, yellow and grey kitchen is joined by a bright pink bathroom, a grass green…
Michele makes a dazzling door
01 Feb 2015
When it comes to making an entrance to a quirky home office, new home builder Michele Powles and her husband James wanted something a little out of the ordinary, but…
Dennis and Mel's leafy suburban project
23 Jul 2015
When the structure of a home is near perfect when you buy it, there comes a little more freedom (read time and money) to sprucing up the paint work with…
Maggie's charming 'forever' home
17 Dec 2015
Elegant, tasteful and yet still adventurous with colour. It's almost unbelievable that Maggie Robertson's renovation of her Auckland villa, which she purchased in the mid-90s, was done remotely from her…
Millie and Duncan's special memory home
20 Aug 2015
A new home that combines character and charm, and a stunning palette of Resene colours is the result of a true family collaboration… and stands in memory to a very…
Tim and Annick's cornucopia of colour
10 Sep 2015
Back in 2009, Tim and Annick Larkin were combing Auckland’s city fringe for a character-filled home that could cope with the needs of their growing family. This neutrally decorated, weatherboard beauty…
Colour's fashion fusion
01 Apr 2015
The Resene NZ Fashion Tech Colour of Fashion collection is bringing Resene fashion colours to life on the runway at New Zealand Fashion Week for the second year, while also giving…
Colour trending: mono goes ethnic
31 Dec 2015
Black and white has been a classic interior colour combo for… well, forever. Now stylist Gem Adams takes this ultra versatile monochromatic palette and gives it a twist for today.…
DIY: painted bathroom tiles
15 Dec 2015
When you don’t want (or can’t afford) tiles in your bathroom you can still get bold with colour and pattern.
In her new build home, Michele and husband James worked out…
5 key interior trends
16 Sep 2015
Interior designer Nicola Manning was invited to gaze into the crystal ball of trend forecasting when she attended this year’s Décor + Design show in Melbourne.
Forecasting company Scarlet Opus shared…
Two super stylish gardens
31 Dec 2015
Gary and Phil’s sensational sizzling garden
Indoor/outdoor flow – it’s the catch-cry of every real estate advert and something we’re all told we should strive for.
One Auckland architect and his partner…
Brandon and Anna choose the unusual
25 Jan 2016
When Anna and Brandon Barclay took on their first house-building project, they didn’t tread the usual path. No all-white colour scheme for them. No off-the-shelf standard fittings. Rather, they trawled…
Anita turns on some rustic homely charm
21 Jan 2016
It’s always a dilemma for an interior designer when their ‘client’ could be… well, anyone. When Anita Thomas was asked by Navigation Homes of Wellington to design the interiors for…
Emma ups the style stakes
01 Feb 2016
Designing a home that's both grand and tasteful is an act usually reserved for architects and experienced interior designers. Emma is neither – but that didn’t stop her from taking full…
Weaving colour and pattern
27 Jan 2016
This summer's fabrics from James Dunlop Textiles are all about making a statement, with fresh, vibrant designs sorted into themed collections.
To showcase the collections, merchandising manager Celia Faris captured the…
Trending: tonal freehand murals
09 Mar 2016
This cool hill mural is not as hard as it looks. For a start, it’s done freehand, which means that if you make small mistakes, it doesn’t matter. Who’s going…
Gareth and Jolie come home to happiness
23 Feb 2016
For Gareth and Jolie Hodson, happiness has been all about coming home to New Zealand, finding the right house and then turning it into their own family sanctuary.
Now finished in…
Sheryl surprises with her colourful manor
03 Mar 2016
Alongside the curved driveway of Sheryl and Kevin’s Cambridge house grow lush, neatly coiffed hedges and neatly manicured lawns. At the end of the driveway is a Georgian manor-style home, seemingly restrained…
Lou's love affair with colour
18 Feb 2016
Blue is clearly a hue that Christchurch stylist and retail owner Lou Barker loves. The signs are all there – the gorgeous (and sharp turquoise) Resene Seeker splashed across the walls…
Jill’s ever-changing honey coloured home
15 Mar 2016
Decor, colour, houses and furniture have been Jill Gibbs' life for years, advising clients through a variety of retail outlets. After-hours she plays havoc at home with a palette of…
Hayley and Darryl find peace with white
16 Aug 2016
Designer Hayley French of Crush Interior Design loves white. She’s used Resene Black White and Resene White Pointer to transform a 1980s kitset cottage north of Auckland into a calming…
Sonia and Yasmine chase away the shadows
04 Apr 2016
When two designers collaborated on a project south of Sydney, they turned a gloomy, shadowy home into a sophisticated retreat with a striking palette of Resene neutral colours. And they…
1 dining space, 3 ways
04 Oct 2015
In each issue of habitat magazine, we ask designers to give a new look to a room in a house we have featured. In the latest issue, we visited a…
Debbie gets fearless with colour
05 May 2016
One room is bright orange, another is turquoise, a third is bright blue and the living room sports a rampant floral wallpaper from Resene. Designer Debbie Omond doesn’t shy away…
Rachel and Paul’s global getaway
14 Apr 2016
When Paul and Rachel Steinmetz came home to New Zealand after years of living in Europe, they didn’t arrive with just the kids and furniture. They also bought a love…
Sarah rescues a plain Jane house
25 Apr 2016
Sarah Clarkson has taken a plain Jane of a modern house and turned it into a character-filled home with fun features using a variety of Resene colour, and despite a…
Kid's room 3 ways
01 May 2016
In each issue of habitat magazine, we ask designers to give a new look to a room in a house we have featured.
In the latest issue, we visited a Wellington…
Chris and Janet unlock the perfect colour
01 Mar 2016
When Chris and Janet Gardner renovated their sumptuous looking villa, their interior design problems were solved in one fell swoop – with the discovery of Resene Thorndon Cream.
As they declare…
Steve and Lynn’s slice of country in suburbia
09 Jun 2016
Getting the feel and feature of a rural lifestyle property with only a typical-sized suburban plot to play with – that was the challenge facing designer Steve Birkhead of Integrating…
Jessica goes simple and sophisticated
16 Jun 2016
When Jessica Cameron bought an earthquake-damaged home in Christchurch, it couldn’t be touched for two years while insurance claims were settled. Haunted by butter yellow walls and a green kitchen,…
Mike and Monica’s stunning modern colour fusion
03 Aug 2016
Most contemporary homes take a fairly restrained approach to colour – lots of white walls, raw concrete and artisan timbers. But architect Gerald Parsonson doesn’t run with the herd, and…
Amanda unlocks the magic in white
22 Jun 2016
Amanda Neill is a designer who’s known for her ability to tie gorgeous furnishings with the right Resene paint. And when some clients wanted a relaxed feel for the new…
Traci and Nick’s sensational colour collision
20 Jul 2016
“I don’t do neutral. I love colour.” Traci Stanbury’s new house certainly supports that declaration, resplendent as it is in bold Resene colour. She and husband Nick bought their dream…
Trending: calming spring bedrooms
09 Sep 2016
The trend for all-white bedrooms is everywhere you look and a dream come true for minimalists the world over. But for those looking for something with bit more of a twist, there…
Designers reveal their dream spaces
13 Oct 2016
Last week, the winners of the NZ Interior Design Awards were announced, in a competition asking designers to create a room around the theme 'My Dream Space'.
Using paint by Resene and their…
Cam and Deb turn basic into beautiful
29 Sep 2016
When Cam and Deb first bought their 1950s bungalow, it was tired, basic and awash with creamy apricot. They were lucky enough to purchase a house that had good solid…
Trending: triangle formation
06 Oct 2016
The cover of the latest issue of habitat is hard to miss, with this stunning triangle wall painted in ten Resene colours. And the look is easier to achieve than you might think.
Stylist Megan…
Trending: surfer's paradise
22 Oct 2016
Beach culture isn't just reserved for the holidays... with a living room like this you can enjoy a relaxed, summery vibe in your surroundings all year long.
Be inspired by this surf-seaside lifestyle setting, styled…
Jo and Richard rejuvenate a 100-year-old beauty
11 Nov 2016
When Richard purchased this run-down Ponsonby villa 14 years ago, he knew it needed some serious love (and money) to get it back to its former glory. Jo agreed when…
Julie's art deco black beauty
20 Dec 2016
Julie Atwell was working in a garden centre in the UK when she was tasked with painting an internal wall – the plan was for it to be a pale soft green.
The boss bought the…
Jema and Peter turn tradition on its head
14 Jun 2015
Jema Swann admits that grey would have been the more obvious for her home's entranceway. The deer farmer settled on dramatic Resene Magnetic from the Resene Metallics and special effects collection, instead. "When the sun shines through the…
Kate goes light and bright for summer
15 Dec 2016
When Kate Gardham purchased a 50-year-old home on Auckland's North Shore last year, it was in dire need of modernising. Despite a tight budget, Kate has transformed the old dame into a modern beauty,…
Juliet and Colin's seaside dream come true
29 Jan 2017
As a purchase, this Coromandel holiday home is what dreams are made of. Surrounded by native bush, panoramic views of Hahei Beach and Mercury Bay, and not much needed in the way of…
Yvette’s tropical heart-felt paradise
18 Jan 2017
When Yvette Parker of Studio Y Interior Design was asked to design the interiors of a house for the Heart Foundation Lottery, she decided to use light fresh Resene colours to…
Two colour-sweet kitchens
14 Feb 2017
We so often play it safe with our kitchens when it comes to colour. The fear of spending that much cash on something that won’t be timeless or will deter…
Hallway heaven
23 Feb 2017
The entrance and hallway are part of those areas in the home that often get overlooked, even though they see most of the thoroughfare. It got us thinking: why not give the humble hallway…
Diane dresses her new build to perfection
23 Feb 2017
It all started with a dress. A summery number with a pattern of cherry red hibiscus and lush green leaves. And when Diane Norman met with an interior designer to talk about the…
Mel and Logan's stylish Southland reno
09 Mar 2017
There's something special about a home that's been kept in the family for generations. Mel and Logan McKenzie's Southland home is no exception, built in the 1960s by Logan's grandparents and…
For the love of zen
02 Mar 2017
Where in the house do you retreat to when the going gets tough? Within the folds of your favourite blanket on the couch? Or do you prefer sinking into a hot…
Banish boring living spaces
12 Apr 2017
If you’re after living spaces that are up to date, but don’t want to drown in a sea of Scandi-inspired white, there are plenty of other ways to go. It…
Sally’s secret walled garden hideaway
13 Apr 2017
When well-known garden photographer Sally Tagg was deciding on the right colour for her walled garden and home exterior, it’s no surprise that she saw it with an artist’s eye.…
Kim and Isaac go big with colour
31 Mar 2017
While Kim Brebner can appreciate a neutral colour scheme in other people's homes, it's simply not for her. And so when it came to repainting her own, she went big and bold with…
Julia and Alastair say yes to French romance
04 May 2017
Earthy Resene Double Grey Olive walls, dark chocolate oak floors and ceiling roses... you'd be forgiven for thinking Julia and Alastair's home is from a much earlier decade.
When the couple sold their previous…
Susie works her magic on an 80s do-up
11 May 2017
Turning a dated 1980s townhouse into a restful haven was a challenge seized upon by interior designer Susie Cropper. Faced with faux brass, pink bathroom fittings, peeling floral wallpaper and…
Lee and Kristin bring their modern barn to life
06 Jul 2017
After living in a renovated state house with small wardrobes and cupboards, Kristin Turner’s wish for her new home was to have open plan living, and the ability to see her daughters play outside from…
Colour on the catwalk
16 Aug 2017
Sixteen key looks, 80 metres of silk, Resene's latest fashion colours... this New Zealand Fashion Week, a colourful parade of beautiful designs will hit the catwalk as part of the Resene Designer…
Amber's colours of travel
14 Sep 2017
?Travel enriches our understanding of the world, delving into rich, new cultures and exploring landscapes that take your breath away. Stylist Amber Armitage recently set off on a world trip, and was…
Jo and Jeremy swap beige with beautiful
14 Sep 2017
Out with the beige. This was the mantra of Jo and Jeremy when renovating their Hamilton villa, painting over the beige walls inside their home with modern, hint-of-pink Resene neutrals – from soft blush Resene Just Right…
Resene colour winners go all out
31 Aug 2017
This year’s winners in the Resene Total Colour Awards created schemes of often multiple strong colours for their projects, pushing the boundaries of colour use both inside and out.
The winner…
Jessica finds the beauty in bold neutrals
12 Oct 2017
When Jessica Judge and husband John Cowan bought their brand new house in Cambridge, Waikato, it was painted completely in Resene Thorndon Cream... and while a great neutral, Jessica wanted a bit…
Maree brings sparkle to show home design
28 Sep 2017
You may not expect to be inspired by a show home – they are meant to appeal to a broad market, and can be bland as a result. But this design by Maree Hynes Interior blows…
Louise gives her garden the magic touch
16 Nov 2017
When landscape designer Louise Dunning purchased this North Auckland home, the well-established yet tired garden that came with it was a welcome challenge.
Louise, who owns landscaping design business Noble Fox, put her green fingers to work, transforming…
Jen's serene, Scandi-style design
21 Dec 2017
When Jen Domett of DomettDesigns was given the brief to design the interior of this show home by Compass Homes, she took her inspiration from retro, Scandinavian and contemporary living to pay…
Gift yourself a colourful Christmas
07 Dec 2017
'Tis the season to get excited about Christmas decorating... but if your festive ornaments are looking a little lacklustre, it can cast a shadow on the whole event.
Fret not, because there are…
Amanda’s beachy modern take on mid-century
25 Jan 2018
When designer Amanda Neill helped renovate a 1970s architect-designed apartment in an Auckland beachside suburb, she skilfully combined the owner’s love of mid-century style with the colours of the sea.…
Imagination inspires 3 kids’ rooms
25 Jan 2018
When it comes to kids’ bedrooms, parents tend to have a bit of fun with the decorating scheme… but Zoe and Mark Hembury went above and beyond, using Resene paints…
Why be blue?
08 Feb 2018
How many reasons do you need to fall in love with Resene inky blues? We give you three very good ones.
We asked stylist Kate Alexander to show us how versatile…
Bruce and Olè's dark and dreamy Victorian-style home
05 Apr 2018
Filled with character and dramatic Resene colours, this Victorian-style bed and breakfast is a beautiful asset to Oamaru’s tourist accommodation – it’s hard to think that it was on its…
Luke and Casey's character bungalow goes grey and gorgeous
01 Mar 2018
When Casey and Luke Muraahi first moved into their 1930s stucco bungalow, Casey imagined repainting the interior in lots of bright colours.
Instead, they went the opposite route, painting the walls…
Jamie and Harriet find the perfect white
29 Mar 2018
When Harriet Booth saw how beautiful Resene Merino looked on the walls of her sister’s house, she knew that this was it… the perfect white for her home.
Harriet and her…
Amber brings her happy place home
26 Apr 2018
Many of us have a ‘happy place’ – a particular spot, town or location that makes us feel good. Your happy place might be a particular type, like a bush…
Laura and Michael’s award winning black and white beauty
26 Apr 2018
For anyone that thinks black and white is boring, it couldn’t be further from the truth when it comes to the home of Laura and Michael of the Bay of…
Franny’s home goes from blah to bold
03 May 2018
After six years living in a “dull and dreary” home, Franny had finally had enough and decided it was high time to bring more of her personality into the interiors…
Dean and Delia’s delightful blue cottage by the sea
19 Apr 2018
What was once a modest bach in a seaside East Auckland suburb is now an eye-catching beauty, painted in an array of Resene coastal colours.
As its been told to homeowners…
Bathing in colour bliss
10 May 2018
Two bathrooms, both painted in rich Resene colour and each boasting an individual style. When it came to creating these beautiful bathrooms, the designers went bold with their colour choices…
Ben and Kate bring harmony to their Californian-style bungalow
24 May 2018
When Ben and Kate Campion set about building their new home, they not only based it on the look of a character Californian-style bungalow but decided to create their own…
Michael brings coastal charm to character villa
21 Jun 2018
What was once bordering on a student flat aesthetic has been transformed into an elegant home painted in coastal-inspired Resene colours thanks to its homeowners and designer Michael Mansvelt.
During the…
Fiona’s exquisitely detailed homage to heritage
28 Jun 2018
So often older homes are given a millennium makeover with rooms opened up for open-plan living, a modern kitchen… and then we paint it all white.
Not so for Fiona Saville…
Gemma and Sam’s fabulous farmhouse renovation
14 Jun 2018
It’s always exciting to see the renovation of an old farmhouse, and this Gisborne home is no exception. Built in the 1930s, and recently given a makeover, it has retained…
Natalie and Dan’s modern, monochromatic Waikato build
16 Aug 2018
Natalie and Dan Isaac may have had to live in a sleepout for a year while waiting on their house to be built, but the resulting home, a modern beauty…
Dave’s garden goes from simple to stunning
23 Aug 2018
A busy garden can still provide a restful space, as proven by homeowner Dave Lewis’s detailed yet calming outdoor area. And with a new paved area, large existing fireplace, garden…
Jenny and Peter river-inspired heritage masterpiece
20 Sep 2018
Jenny and Peter Brown have renovated plenty of houses over the years but their commitment to keeping true to the essence and original style of their Whanganui B&B made this…
Marcelle and Simon’s colour-lover’s villa
18 Oct 2018
When advertising executive Marcelle Baker came to designing the interior of her renovated, century-old villa in Onehunga, Auckland, colour was key in the form of a bold Resene palette. “I…
Helen and Ian’s bold coastal garden
22 Nov 2018
There was no staying neutral for Helen and Ian Ivess when they made over their home exterior and garden. Instead of the common restrained palette of creams and whites, the…
Shed makeover houses new rural lifestyle
13 Dec 2018
A rural Waikato shed has been transformed into a stylish country home thanks to the vision of its owners. Having owned the land for several years, while they lived in…
A den for everyone
13 Dec 2018
This beautiful serene space has been created to be an inviting and comfortable escape that’s refreshingly gender neutral. Just a quick change of the focus artwork shifts the room subtly…
Sheryl and Kevin’s bright and eclectic Tudor transformation
10 Jan 2019
After their kids left home, Sheryl and Kevin Mace were ready to downsize and looking for a change. When they stumbled upon this early 90s Tudor-style house in Waikato, Sheryl…
A sophisticated slate bedroom gets a tropical twist
24 Jan 2019
When you think about a traditional tropical interior, it often evokes images of green palm leaves, pink flamingos and light-coloured cane furniture in bright sun-drenched rooms. This colour scheme –…
Sian’s Lyttelton villa gets the magic touch
19 Feb 2019
It goes without saying that the kitchen in this renovated villa is exceptionally beautiful. The home is owned and decorated by kitchen and interior designer Sian Gillander, after all.
Overlooking…
This striking black kitchen is the crown jewel of a contemporary North Otago farmstead
06 Mar 2019
Situated in Ardgowan, just west of Oamaru, this jaw-dropping house has a spectacular vista overlooking farmland and the Kakanui mountain range. The hardworking couple who own it are in their…
Lisa calls in the colour pros for a refined revival
14 Feb 2019
After doing some research on Sunday drives, Lisa knew that she wanted to go grey to update the exterior of her 1947 Wellington home. The tricky part was deciding which…
Becky’s colourful Christchurch bungalow gives us something to smile about
21 Mar 2019
When Designer Becky Lee purchased her 1956 brick bungalow in Christchurch nearly five years ago, it was essentially a blank canvas with Resene Half Black White throughout the interiors. Being…
Kelly transforms a sea of vanilla into an art-inspired masterpiece
03 Apr 2019
Designer Kelly Gammie of Eucalyptus Design is no stranger to using colour to transform a home. A past recipient of the Resene Residential Interior Colour Creativity award, she received another…
The most overlooked element in nearly every home renovation
02 May 2019
Lighting has a drastic effect on your paint colour choices – to the point that you really should be considering your lighting before, or at the latest, when you pick…
Janice and Eddie’s brave use of bold colours pays off
30 Apr 2019
Now that their top-to-bottom renovation is done and dusted, Janice and Eddie Cowley are happy to be living their most colourful lives – thanks to a whole spectrum of Resene…
Sandra and Doug breathe new life into a grand old Victorian
24 Apr 2019
Although the spectacular house at 38 Franklin Road in Auckland’s Freeman’s Bay neighbourhood started her life as a gracious family home for a well-to-do local councillor, she has spent the…
Deborah and Stuart’s remarkable rebuild is a cut above
16 May 2019
Tucked into a steeply sloping section, this impressive Nelson home was born out of what started as a simple alteration but ended up as a near complete rebuild – decked…
Annabel and Simon’s new wave of coastal living
12 Jun 2019
When interior designer Annabel Berry and her husband Simon built their house on the outskirts of Oamaru, they chose a coastal theme for their décor. Seven years and three children…
Kay’s whimsical wallpapered Morrinsville home
19 Jun 2019
For Kay, building her first home was a life-long dream. With the help of her architectural designer son and builder friend, she was able to turn that dream into a reality,…
A simple palette looks superb in this Cambridge showhome
05 Jun 2019
Those on the lookout for a new place to call home in the Cambridge region will be pleased to learn that Sentinel Homes has just opened a brand new showhome…
Sharon crafts a colourful haven for two
04 Jul 2019
Sharon Skylark loves colour. If she had to choose a favourite, it would be red, but then it could also be turquoise, or pink. “Turquoise goes with everything,” she says.
Her…
Debra and Tony DeLorenzo play the long game with their period property
31 Jul 2019
Debra DeLorenzo is no stranger when it comes to interior renovation and design. As an interior designer by trade, there’s nothing she loves more than to unleash her creative prowess and…
Emma and Henry’s Pt. Chev bungalow gets an indoor-outdoor makeover
18 Jul 2019
With two children and another on the way, Emma and Henry were rapidly outgrowing their three-bedroom traditional 1930s bungalow in Auckland’s Pt. Chevalier neighbourhood. The house didn’t have a bathtub…
Sarah’s cute and colourful family home in Invercargill
15 Aug 2019
Choosing a location to purchase a property is often a challenge. But for Sarah Chapman, husband Riki and their three children, relocating to Sarah’s home town was an easy choice.…
Maggie and Hugh put a retro twist on a Scandi-inspired interior
11 Sep 2019
Located down a suburban street in west Auckland sits a handsome new property. Built in 2018, the two-storey home’s exterior is wrapped in dark and moody weatherboard cladding with timber…
Erina and Matt’s fearlessly colourful family home
02 Oct 2019
With an unashamedly eclectic home and an eye on budget, designer Erina Emery and husband Matt have created a fun and colourful home for their family.
Clad in white stucco, the…
Charlotte and Greg create colourful character in a newly constructed home
18 Sep 2019
Since Charlotte and Greg Quinn bought their first house in the UK in 2006, they have loved living in houses with a strong architectural style and plenty of character.
“Most houses…
One living/dining room, three ways
24 Sep 2019
Decked out in a range of beautiful coastal Resene blues, designer Annabel Berry’s open plan living and dining area was one of the most popular rooms in the Autumn/Winter 2019…
Amanda and Steve make a massive move and end up with their dream home
22 Oct 2019
Homeowners Amanda and Steve found the perfect piece of land in the heart of the Waikato with the intention of developing a Clydesdale stud and horse care facility. The couple…
Lizzie’s cute cottage glows like a jewel
16 Oct 2019
Sometimes a momentous event will spur us into action. That was the case with Lizzie Cook of Christchurch when earthquake repairs gave her the opportunity to complete renovations on her…
Jen and Dan’s blissful master bedroom sets the stage for more colour to come
28 Nov 2019
When Jen first moved to New Zealand from her native Scotland in 2005, she hoped and dreamed of the day that she and her husband would own a house on…
Kirsten and Julien’s small home has style to spare
06 Nov 2019
Perched on the upper slopes of Mt Pleasant Hill in Christchurch is a petite two bedroom home with sweeping views to the alps, Kaikoura mountain ranges and Pegasus Bay. As…
Sarah creates an expertly coloured country chic sanctuary
11 Nov 2019
When Sarah Eaton of Tailormade Space was hired to provide a full interiors concept on a new build in Canterbury, the leafy rural setting became the perfect opportunity to create…
Melanie and Andrew’s Waitara home is a vibrant work of art
05 Dec 2019
After moving into their 1990s home, Melanie, her husband Andrew and their three kids Alex, Sam and Lucy, faced quite the conundrum. The nearly 17 metre long hallway that connect…
A space of her own
09 Jan 2020
Gone are the days of women putting up with being told that dens, garages, basements and sheds are “just for boys”.
Enter the ‘she shed’ – a space for women to…
Charlotte Coote’s expertly coloured Mt Macedon home has style to spare
28 Jan 2020
When interior designer Charlotte Coote of Coote & Co and her husband Geordie purchased their aging yet promising Mt Macedon home in 2017, they certainly had their work cut out…
Kate and Nick’s Meadowbank home is a vision of light and movement
22 Jan 2020
As the owner of Williams Road, a furniture company that creates beautiful commercial fit-outs, homeowner Kate definitely has a strong sense of style – one that set the vision for…
Stephanie’s post-quake overhaul honours lush surrounding
11 Feb 2020
Following the devastating Christchurch earthquakes, Stephanie Waterhouse was faced with a major decision: rebuild her beloved but damaged 110-year-old villa or pack up and move. However, her stunning St Albans…
Lisa Maria and Paul’s electric Kapiti Coast home
11 Mar 2020
It takes a great eye and flair for colour to achieve what Lisa Maria and Paul have with their 1950s Kapiti Coast home. Just two minutes from the beach by…
Philip and Jane’s glamorous villa looks pretty in pink
04 Mar 2020
While it may have served previous life as a modest bungalow, Philip and Jane’s 1920s Auckland home has since seen a complete transformation into the bold and modern multi-level stand…
Rachel and Steven’s character-filled 1930s bungalow
26 Feb 2020
‘Old world charm meets colourful, contemporary character’ perfectly sums up Rachel and Steven’s 1930s Devonport bungalow, which they share with their two children, Elias and Ivy. With its ornate high…
These spicy shades are the next big thing
26 Feb 2020
Swipe your way through Instagram or Pinterest, flip through a design magazine, or step foot into your local décor shop and you’ll have no doubt that the interiors world is…
