Homeowners Selena and Mike painted cool white Resene Alabaster on the walls of their Taupo home, which perfectly offsets the beautiful original timber floor. For a similar look, try Resene Colorwood Nutmeg wood stain.

Resene Alabaster is a popular neutral for interiors and it makes the cottage look much more contemporary and brighter than before the reno. Selena, an interior designer, has also added modern accessories, such as linen curtains and a ceiling lampshade, to bring the 1930s era home into the here and now.

The effect of Resene Alabaster on the walls, trims and ceilings tricks the eye into thinking the cottage is much larger than it is. The batten ceilings add texture and character to break up the whiteness.

As seen in the bathroom, the reno hasn’t demolished the charm of the cottage, only added to it with contemporary elements. The walls, trims and ceiling are painted in Resene Alabaster and the vanity is in Resene Quarter Joanna.

Tongue-and-groove walls look fresh and gorgeous, painted in Resene Alabaster.

Neutral linens, rattan and nods to coastal living bring out the peaceful ambiance of this cottage by the lake, with walls in the master bedroom painted in Resene Alabaster. For a similar look, try bringing in bedding in silvery greys like Resene Stack and Resene Half Surrender and add a throw in Resene Tuft Bush.

Just outside of the bedroom, sun pours into the living room with walls, trims and ceiling painted in Resene Alabaster. It’s the perfect place to curl up with a book or sit down to watch TV. 

With views of Lake Taupo and oodles of character in its build, this 90-year-old cottage is a dreamy place to reside. Selena chose Resene Quarter Joanna for the exterior paint colour, with Resene White for the trims. It creates a subtle contrast and highlights the large windows and French doors.

design and images Selena McWilliam