Interior styling | Bathrooms on a budget
Bring the outdoors in | Flooring trends
Sell up or do up? | Set the scene for summer
Wonderwall
Lookingforasimple,strikingandcost-effectivewayto transformyourspacethisspring?Creatingafeaturewall usingResenepaintisjusttheticket.
Howtopaint afeaturewall
Choosingtopaintawallin afeaturecolourisoneofthe mostlow-cost,high-impact waysyoucanmakeachange toyourhome.It’sanideal springprojectastheweather isgettingwarmer,makingpainting conditionsmorefavourable–plus youcanthrowopenthedoors andwindowsforventilationand tospeedupyourdryingtime. Asalways,properpreparation iskeytogettingthebest,most professionallookingresults. Intermsofcolour,rememberthat itisyourhomesoyoucanbeas boldanddaringasyoulike.The beautyofafeaturewallisthatan impactfulcolourwon’tcompletely overwhelmthespace.Specific colourscancreateadifferentvibe andambiancetoaroom.We’ve paintedthisbedroominResene DreamBig,arestfulskyblue.
Whychooseblue?
Youwillneed:
•Resenedropcloth
•Painter’stape
•Safetygear
•ReseneInterior
Buildatimber headboard
Blueisoneofthemost popularchoicesfor bedrooms.It’sassociated withfeelingsofcalmand serenityandresearch showsthatitcanreduce theheartrate,whichis helpfulwhenitcomesto driftingofftosleep.
PaintworkCleaner
•Microfibrecloth
•ReseneEzyFillQuick
•Scraper
•220gritsandpaper
•Dustingbrush
•ReseneQuickDry waterborneprimer undercoat
•Paintbrushes
•ReseneAcrylicUndercoat (optional,dependingonhow muchyourcolourischanging)
•ReseneSpaceCoteLowSheen inyourchosencolour(weused ReseneDreamBig)
•Resene#7Smooth Surfacesrollersleeve
•Extendablerollerpole
1 Protect Moveyourfurnitureas farawayfromthewallasyoucan toensureyouhaveenoughroom towork,aswellaskeepingitaway frompaintsplatters.Placeadrop clothdownandsecureitwith painter’stapeforextrapeaceof mind.Usepainter’stapetomask offtheareasyoudon'twanttoget painton.
2 Clean,fill,sand Spraythe wallwithReseneInteriorPaintwork Cleanerandwipeitdownwitha microfibrecloth.UseReseneEzyFill Quicktofillanyholesinthewall andwaitforittodry,thensand with220gritsandpaper.Wipeor brushawaysandingdustwitha
FeaturewallpaintedinReseneDream Big,headboardinReseneColorwood Whitewash,otherwallinReseneHalf BlackWhite,sidetableandvasein ReseneRiceCake,lampinReseneTurbo. ReseneLivingEvergreenduvetcover inReseneAlabasterfromBriscoes.
Buildatimber headboard
Elevate your spaceeven further and enhancethe beachy bach vibe by making your owntimber headboard and stainingit with Resene Colorwood Whitewash For a 160cmsquare headboard, weused 21 palingsand two battens. Onceassembled,apply Resene Colorwood Whitewash usinga paintbrush or speedbrush Finish with Resene Aquaclear to enhance and protectthetimber
Formoredetailedinstructionsand towatchthe fullhow-to video, visit, www.masterstrokebyresene.com/ headboard
•Paintrollertray Step-by-step
dustingbrushor microfibrecloth.
Step-by-step
3 Prime Fortheareasthat werefilled,spotprimewithResene QuickDry.Thenontheentirety ofthewall,applyReseneAcrylic Undercoat–we’veusedthis becausethecolourisgoingfrom darktolight.
4 Paint GiveyourResene SpaceCoteLowSheenagoodstir thendecantintoyourpainttray andapplythefirstcoatusinga rollerandextensionpole.Wait therecommendeddryingtime beforeapplyingyoursecondcoat. Removethepainter’stapeand you’redone!
Toptip: Forthebestfinish, makesureyouloadyour paintrollerwithenough paint–itshouldresemble ahotdogdippedinbatter.
FormoreadvicevisityourlocalReseneColorShoporresellerorwatch thehow-tovideoatwww.masterstrokebyresene.com/feature-wall
Howtomakea PVCpipelamp
Brighten your bedsidetable with this super cool PVC pipelamp The bold colour and quirky designareanod to the Memphisstyle. Thankstothe maximalismtrend,the Memphis styleis havinga resurgence,and thiscolour –Resene Turbo–isa perfect example of the punchy hues Memphisis famousfor
Fordetailedinstructionsandto watchthehow-to video, visit, www.masterstrokebyresene.com/pvc-pipe-lamp
Makethis funky k lamp
Interiorstylingtomake yourhousefeellikehome
Transformyourinteriorspaceswiththoughtfulstyling,colour, andtexturewithoutcommittingtoafullrenovation.
Awell-styledhomeismorethanjustfurniture andpaint;itcanbeareflectionofyour p personality,lifestyle,andthewayspaces makeyoufeel.ForKiwis,indoor-outdoorlivingis partofoureverydaylives,andinteriorstylingplays acrucialroleincreatingwarmth,harmony,and functionality,eveninmodestlysizedhomesoron atightbudget.
Thefirststepinstylinganyroomis understandingitspurposeand flow.Aucklandinteriorstylist HannahClarkeexplains, “Awell-styledroomhas anaturalrhythm.It considershowpeople movethroughit,what theydothere,and howthespacefeels atdifferenttimesof day.”Forinstance, positioningseating whereitcatches naturallightorcreating clearzonesinanopenplanlivingareamakesthe roomfeelpurposefuland welcoming.Thoughtfullayoutand flowformthebackboneofgoodstyling, everythingelselayersontop.
Colourisoneofthemostpowerfultoolsfor transformingaspace.Neutralpalettesremain popular,especiallyinsmallerhomesorrentals, butKiwisareincreasinglyembracingcolourasa waytoinjectpersonality.Featurewalls,painted joinery,orboldaccessoriescancreatevisual interestwithoutoverwhelmingaroom.Clarke suggestsexperimentingwithaccentsratherthan committingtopermanentchanges:“Adeepgreen onasinglewallornavycabinetryinthekitchencan makeahugeimpactwithoutneedingafullrepaint.” Coastalhomesmightfavoursoftbluesandsandy tones,whilecityapartmentsoftenbenefitfrom
jewel-likeaccentsthatadddepthanddrama. Textureandlayeringareequallyimportant.Mix softfurnishings,rugs,throws,andcushionswith hardsurfacesliketimber,stone,ormetaltocreatea senseofbalance.ManyKiwihomesfeaturetimber floorsandnaturallight,soaddingtactilelayers bringswarmthandcomfort.Clarkepointsout, “Texturemakesaspacefeeltactileandinviting. Evensimpleadditionslikeawoolrug, linencushions,orawovenbasket elevatearoominstantly.”Small touches,suchasalocally craftedceramicvaseora rattanstool,addcharacter withoutdominatingthe space.
Lightingisanother keyconsideration. Layeredlightingsuch asoverhead,task, andaccent,candefine areaswithinaroomand highlightstylingfeatures. Mirrorsplayadualrole: theyreflectlight,openingup thespace,andcanactasstylish focalpoints.Foreveningambience, considerfloorlamps,wallsconces,orstring lightstocreateasoft,invitingglow.
Practicalityshouldneverbesacrificedforstyle. Cleverstoragesolutionskeepspacesuncluttered, makingstylingmoreeffective.Openshelvingcan displaycurateditemswithoutlookingmessy; baskets,boxes,andhiddenstoragemaintain organisation.Evensmalltweakslikerepositioning furnituretocreateconversationzones,stylinga bedsidetablewithlayeredbooksandaplant, orgroupingvasesofdifferentheightscanmake spacesfeelcohesiveandintentional.
Sustainabilityandlongevityareincreasingly consideredinmoderninteriorstyling.Clarke advises,“Investinqualitypiecesthatwilllast,and
mixthemwithtrend-ledaccessoriesthatareeasy tochange.Thisapproachisbudget-friendlyinthe longtermandreduceswaste.”Vintagefurniture, locallymadedécor,andnaturalfibresallcontribute toahomethatfeelsbothstylishandmeaningful.
Finally,don’tunderestimatetheimpactof small,thoughtfuldetails.Indoorplants,art,or locallyinspiredhomewarescanbringlifetoeven thesmallestspaces.Awell-placedfiddleleaf fig,afewpottednatives,oraframedprintofa favouritelandscapecancreatepersonalitywithout cluttering.
Interiorstylingistheartoflayeringpersonality, colour,texture,andfunctiontomakeahouse feellikehome.Whetherit’sastatementcushion, agallerywall,oracarefullycuratedshelf,small changescantransformaspacefromordinaryto memorable.Withafewconsideredupdates,it’s possibletoachieveahigh-impactlookwithouta high-costrenovation.
TOPTIP
Theruleofthreeishelpfultorememberwhen you’restylingyourspace.Whenyou’readding anewfavouriteReseneaccentcolourtoa room,trytoadditinthreeplacestohelpitfeel likeitbelongs.PaintafeaturewallinResene SpaceCoteLowSheen,dressupanoldplanter potorpictureframewithResenetestpotsand refreshfurnitureusingReseneLustacryl.
TrelliswhitewashedinResene WoodsmanWhitewashanwall andfloorpaintedinResene TripleWhitePointer.Diningtable andchairsfromEarlySettler.
Inthewash
AswellasReseneWoodsman Whitewash,LightGreywashand MidGreywash,theentiresix-shade WeSpeakBeachcollectionisnow availableinReseneWoodsman. Thismeansyoucanbringatouch ofbespokemodernScandistyle toyouroutdoorspaces,fora beachwasheffectonnewor weatheredexterior timber,likebeams, fencesandtimber weatherboards.
Availablefrom ReseneColorShops andselectedresellers.
Sealthedeal
GetinspiredbythesenewandtrendingReseneproducts totransformboththeinsideandoutsideofyourhome.
Neatsheet
Aswellaslookinggreatin on-trendResenehues–Resene White,ReseneBalticSea,Resene WaiouruandReseneSeachange –theseReseneCastilloSheet Setsarecraftedfromaluxurious blendofTENCEL™Lyocelland cotton,sotheyfeelsilkysoftas youslumber.Theyarealsomade withmoisture-wickingproperties, whichhelpsregulatetemperature andmakesthemperfectforuse throughouttheyear. AvailablefromBriscoes.
Greatheights
Whileitmightfeeladventurous, wallpaperingyourceilingis agreatwaytoadddrama, colourandtexturetoaspace –welovethenewReseneArtifice WallpaperCollection.Resene Anaglyptawallpaperisagreat waytoadddepth.Itcomesin whiteinawiderangeofpatterns andisdesignedtobepainted overinyourchosenResenecolour. Createaquickfeaturewithpastethe-wallwallpaper–yournewbest friendasit’ssupereasytoinstall. AvailablefromReseneColorShops andselectedresellers.
Battlingrustathome?Neverfear! ThankstoReseneArmourXRust Sealer,youcanactuallysealrust onsurfaceswhereyoucan’tfully removeit.It’sawaterborneactive rustconversioncoatingthat combinesexcellentrustconverting propertieswithstrongadhesion tometals.Whenyouapplyit toarustedsubstrate,therustis convertedintoan anticorrosivecomplex withastrongbond tothemetalsurface. Availablefrom ReseneColorShops andselectedresellers.
Resene Artifice Wallpaper Collection M76310
Paperpower
Paper power
You’vegotmail
Lookingforspot-onseasonal content,decoratinginspoand handyproductinfo?The MasterStrokebyResenenewsletter hasyoucovered.Thismonthly emailarrivesinyourinboxatjust therighttimetoplanyour upcomingweekendprojects.
Signupatmasterstrokebyresene.com/ newsletter.
Unlessyou’vebeensleepingunder arock,you’llknowthatwallpaperis back,baby!Thinkultra-stylish designs,eye-catchingtextures, dimensionaltreatments,new materialsanddigitalprinting techniques,whichtaketheinteriors gametoawholenewlevel.This habitatplus isadeepdiveintoall thingswallpaper,withadviceonhow tochooseadesign,thetypes availableandhowtohangit.Italso looksatthekeycurrenttrends: botanicprints,florals,metallic finishes,graphicprints,oversized designsandmurals,theclassics,fun looksandpersonalisedartprints. Pickupafreecopyatyourlocal ReseneColorShoporresellerorread onlineatresene.com/habitatplus.
Needhelp? VisityourlocalReseneColorShoporreseller,AskaResenePaintExpertfreeonlineatresene.com/paintexpertoraskaReseneColourExpertatresene.com/colourexpert. Keentorefreshyourhomebutneedhelpwiththepainting?UsethefreeFind-A-Painterserviceatresene.com/findapainteroraskatyourlocalReseneColorShop.
HelpingyoumasteryourpaintanddecoratingDIYprojects–checkoutthelatesthow-tovideosandadviceonline: youtube.com/@masterstrokebyresene masterstrokebyresene.com
@masterstrokebyresene
Getinspired Spring intoaction
Whetheryourtimbergateisoldornew,a freshcoatofpaintcanreallyliftthelookof yourproperty.Thisgateisbeingpainted withReseneLustacrylinReseneMountain Mistandtheretainingwallisstainedwith ReseneWaterborneWoodsmaninHackett Black.ComplementwithReseneSilvered GreyCoolColouronyourweatherboards.
Luckygate
Finally,springhassprung!Thecoldanddrearydaysarenow behindus,meaningtheweatherismuchmorefavourableto getstartedonbothindoorandoutdoorpaintprojects.Check outthesequick,budget-friendlyideastotryoveraweekend. 3 4 1 6 2 5 7
Clearthedecks
Getridofanybuilt-upgunk fromwinterwithReseneTimber andDeckWash.Thisisalsothe firststepyoushouldcompleteif you’replanningtorefreshyour deckorfencewithpaintorstain. Mixwithwateraccordingtothe instructionsandsaturatethe timbersurface.Leavewet for10-15minutes,then scrubvigorouslyand rinsewithcleanwater.
Sofreshsoclean
It’stimetogetridofall thedirtandgrimethatcan accumulateoverwinter.Doing thisnowwillmeanyourhouseand outdoorareaswillbeprimedand readyforalfrescoentertaining andenjoymentinthewarmer weather.ApplyResenePaintPrep andHousewashandgivesurfaces agoodscrub.Foranymould, applyReseneMoss&MouldKiller andwaitforittoworkitsmagic.
Shedappeal
Isyouroldsteelshedcreatingan eyesore?Giveitarefreshtoensure yourgardenlooksitsbestinspring. You’llbeamazedatthedifference Resenecleaningandpainting productscanmake.Giveyourshed agoodscrubwithReseneRoofand MetalWash,thenapplyResene GalvoOnegalvanised steelprimer,whichis speciallydevelopedfor newandweathered galvanisedsteel.Finish withtwocoatsofResene LumbersiderLowSheen –useaReseneCoolColour formulafordarkcolours.
Console table painted with Resene Sandtex Mediterranean effect in Resene Truffle, walls in Resene Alabaster, Resene Double Sea Fog mixed with Resene FX Paint Effects Medium and Resene Sea Fog mixed with Resene FX Paint Effects Medium and panelling in Resene Eighth Canterbury Clay
Paintingyourtimbergatecan reallyelevatethelookofyour outdoorareaandsignificantly enhancethestreetappealof yourproperty,aswellasprotect thetimberagainsttheelements. Giveitagoodsandfirst,then primewithReseneQuickDry. Oncedry,paintitintheResene colourofyourchoice.Anddon’t forgetyourfence–treatwith ReseneMoss&MouldKillerthen cleanwithReseneTimberand DeckWash.Oncedry,stainwith yourpreferredshadeofResene WaterborneWoodsman.
Tableofcontents
Breathenewlifeintosomeold terracottapotsandapieceof timberbyrepurposingtheminto achicconsoletable.Acoatingof ReseneSandtexMediterranean effectgivesthemagorgeous GreekorItalianvibe.Resene Sandtexisauniqueproductthat createsatexturedfinishwhich bringsoutthedepthofyour chosenResenecolourandhas theabilitytorecreatethelook andfeelofnaturalsandstone.
FencepaintedwithResene FXFauxRustEffect.
Rustdo Keentomakeaspectacular statementwithminimaleffort? EnterReseneFXFauxRustEffect, whichcreatesaweatheredsteel lookinjustamatterofhours.It’s awaterbornecoatingthatcanbe usedonbothexteriorandinterior surfaces,andtherusteffectwill continuetodevelopovertime. Thecolourintensityanddepth oftheeffectdependsonthe applicationandtechnique–the moreactivatoryouapply,and thesooneritisappliedafterthe basecoatistouchdry,themore impressivetherusteffectis.
Paintandsit
Reviveoldoutdoorchairswith alickofResenepaint.Doingthis notonlytransformstheirlook,but willaddalayerofprotectionfrom theelements.Aswithalloutdoor timbersurfaces,blitzmouldwith ReseneMoss&MouldKillerand scrubwellwithReseneTimber andDeckWash.Aftersanding anyroughedges,primewith ReseneQuickDrythenpaintwith yourfavouriteResenecolour.If youritemismadeofhardwood useasolventborneprimersuch asReseneWoodPrimertoavoid tanninbleed.
ChairprimedwithReseneQuickDry waterborneprimerundercoatthen paintedwithReseneLumbersider LowSheeninReseneSambuca.
ReseneSeaFog
ReseneTruffle
ReseneEighthCanterburyCla
CheckwithReseneColorShopor resellerstaffforadviceforyourproject. Coloursshownarearepresentation only.PleaserefertotheactualResene paintorproductsamplebeforemaking yourfinalchoice.
HelpingyoumasteryourpaintanddecoratingDIYprojects–checkoutthelatesthow-tovideosandadviceonline: youtube.com/@masterstrokebyresene masterstrokebyresene.com
Colourme happy
Keentospruceupyourbathroomorensuitewithoutrippingoutallthefittingsandstartingagain? Paintisoneofthebestwaystoupdateyourbathroomwithanimpressivenewlook.
Whatyou’llneedto prepareforpainting yourbathroom:
•Resenedropcloth
•Paintroller
•Painttray
•Paintpots
•Safetygear
•Painter’stape
•Assortedpaintbrushes
•ReseneWaterborne
Suresealpigmentedsealer
•ReseneSpaceCoteLow
SheenKitchen&Bathroom
•ReseneLustacrylKitchen &Bathroom
•ReseneSpaceCoteFlat Kitchen&Bathroom
PanelpaintedinReseneHalfBisonHide andwallinReseneEighthBisonHide.
Aboveallelse
It’samazinghowusingadeeper colourontheceilingcancreate amoody,dramaticatmosphere –plus,italsomakesawelcome changefromtheusualwhite. Flatorlowsheenfinishesare bestforceilingsastheyhelpto hideimperfections,sotheResene SpaceCoteKitchen&Bathroom rangeorReseneSpaceCoteFlat aregreatoptions. ReseneAnaglyptaWallpaper Collectionisanothergreatway toaddinteresttoceilings.These embossedwallpapersbring texturetoaroomandcanbe paintedoverinyourchoiceof Resenecolour.
Toptip: Ifthereismould presentonyourceiling, treatitwithReseneMoss &MouldKillerbefore youbegin.Ifyou paintovermould, itcangrowthrough thenewpaint.
Onthetiles
There’snoneedtoremove yourwallorfloortilesifyou decidetoupgrade–youcansimply paintoverthem(butnotthoselining yourshower).Ifyourtilesarequite glossy,lightlysandthemfirsttohelp yourpaintadherebetter.Ifthey havealowersheenyoucanskip this.ApplyReseneWaterborne Suresealpigmentedsealerandwait forittodry,thenapplytwocoatsof ReseneSpaceCoteLowSheenon wallsandReseneWalk-onand ReseneConcreteWaxonyourfloor.
Thegreatwall
Choosinganupliftingorsoothing Resenepaintcolourforthewallscan enhanceyourbathroomspaceand createacertainambiance,likea relaxingsparetreat.Youcouldalso goastepfurtherandaddatextured effectusingtheReseneFXrange. MixingReseneFXPaintEffects MediumwithyourfavouriteResene colourcreatesacolourwashedor limewashedlook.Ifyou’reoptingfor alightercolour,useReseneSpaceCote LowSheenKitchen&Bathroom, whichoffersextraprotectionagainst mouldandbacteria.UseResene RoomVelvetforhigh-useand/or poorlyventilatedbathrooms.
Afterpainting
It’sbesttowaitatleastaweek beforeyouhaveanyhot,steamy showers.Wipedownthewallsafter yourfirstfewshowerssothemoisture isnotleftonthesurface.UseResene InteriorPaintworkCleanerand alint-freeclothandbegentle, especiallyonceilings,whenthe paintisstillnew.Bathroomwalls aresusceptibletoscuffmarksand scratchesovertime.Toclean,use ReseneInteriorPaintworkCleaner andstartfromtheoutsideandwork yourwayin.Don’tstarttoofarfrom amark–abouthalfthewidthofthe markisenough.Wallscancollect dustandgrimeovertimesotryto avoidcreatingavisiblecleanpatch. Ifyoudoendupwithacleanpatch, afeatherdustercanhelptosoften thecleaningline.
Didyouknow?
TheReseneKitchen &Bathroomrange hasbeenspecifically formulatedforwet areasandhasanextra mouldinhibitorinitto helpprotectagainst highmoisturerooms. TryReseneLustacryl Kitchen&Bathroomon trims,ReseneSpaceCote LowSheenKitchen& Bathroomonwallsand forceilingsuseResene SpaceCoteFlatKitchen &Bathroom.
Askanexpert Howtochooseyour bathroomcolours
ReseneColour ExpertMeryl Southeysharesher toptipsforchoosing acolourscheme
•Considercolourpsychology. Warmtoneslikesunnyyellow, honeyandbeigecreatea welcomingandcosyatmosphere, likeReseneWeatheredYellow orReseneQuarterSorrellBrown. Cooler tones such as light greens andbluesevokeatranquil,airy oasis,likeReseneTranscendand ReseneRelax.
•Spatialperceptionisessential. Lightcolourscanmakearoom appear larger,while darker colourscancreateamore intimatefeel.Thelayout,natural lightandplacementoffixtures canalsoimpactyourResene colourchoices.
•Bebraveandgobold!Rich jeweltoneslikeReseneMaestro andReseneAquamarinecan makeafeaturewallpop,or youcanchooseapatterned Resenewallpaper.
ReseneWeatheredYellow
ReseneQuarterSorrellBrown
ReseneTranscend
ReseneRelax
ReseneAquamarine
ReseneMaestro
Needextracolourinspo?
Checkout habitat and Resene’sexcitingpodcast Ifthesewallscouldtalk.
Ceiling painted in Resene Ravine, walls in Resene Quarter Tea, arch in Resene Cashmere and wall panels in Resene Vantage Point
Powderroompop
Transformyourpowderroomintoawhimsicalwonderlandwith avibrantdesignfromtheReseneWallpaperCollection.
Startingsmall
Whileapowderroomorguest bathroommaynotbethelargest orbusiestareaofyourhome,when itcomestodecorating,youcanbe asadventurousandboldasyou like.Infact,manyResenecolour expertsrecommendthisasa low-riskstartingpointandagreat waytobuildconfidenceinyour skillsbeforemovingontomore significantrenovations.Youcan alsogainabetterunderstanding oftheprepandproducts,aswell asfine-tunethestyleandaesthetic you’dlikefortherestofyourhome.
Boldonabudget
Powderroomscanbesmall,dark andnarrow,andusuallyonly containatoiletandbasin–and
awindowifyou’relucky!Thereare manywaysyoucanbrightenthe spaceandaddpopsoffunResene colourandtexture,withalittle designinspiration.Thesechanges canalsobedoneonabudget andareabletoworkwithwhat youalreadyhaveinplace,without anymajorstructuralchanges.It’s anidealweekendprojectanytime ofyear.
Whywallpaper?
Wallpaperismakingamajor comeback,andit’seasytosee whyonceyoutakealookatthe stunningdesignsavailableat ReseneColorShops.Youcango all-outinyourpowderroomand
Left:ReseneGoldenAgeWallpaper Collection101077036totallytransformsthis smallguestbathroom.Ceilingpaintedin ReseneQuarterRiceCake.Above:This narrowpowderroomusesReseneUtopia WallpaperCollection91173tocreatean unexpectedcontrasttotherestofthehouse.
chooseadesignthatmightbetoo intenseforotherroomsinyour home.Resenehasthousandsof wallpaperoptionstolookthrough, andnewpaste-the-wallpapers makehangingityourselfeasier thanever.Removeanyoldpaper first,andifyou’replanningtopaint yourtrimsandceilings,dothatfirst withReseneLustacryl.Applying wallpapersizeisakeystepinthe process.Itaddsabarrierbetween yourwallandthewallpaper,and helpsthewallpaperstickbetter.
Absolutelyfloored Ifyou’regoingbrightandbold onthewalls,keeptheflooring simple.Tiledfloorscanoftenmake apowderroomfeelnarrowbut paintingthefloorwithResene Walk-oncanmakethespacefeel lessenclosed.Foramoderntake, staintimberflooringinResene Colorwoodandprotectwith ReseneQristalClearFloor1K.
Toptip: Ifyourbathroom doesn’thaveawindow, invitelightinwithapopof brightpatternedResene wallpaper.Large-scale printswillopenupyour space.Tryboldfloralsor createatropicalparadise withpalmsandparrots.
Wallpaperingiseasy once youknow what you’redoing. Here’sabriefsummary of thekey stepsinvolved:
•Always startonthesideof thewallthatismost visibleand hasthe mostamountoflight, andwork acrossuntil youreach theleast conspicuousarea.
•Measurethe verticallength ofthewall,thenmeasure your firstpieceof wallpapertothis length, allowinganoverhang ofatleast10cm.
•Using a penciland a plumb line,mark the width ofthe wallpaperrollonthe wall. This will help you to hang the firstpieceof wallpaperstraight.
•Usea rollertoapply the wallpaper pastetothe wall–aimtogetitabout 2mmthick
•Smooth the paste-the-wall wallpaperontothe walland usearubberrollertoremove anybubbles.
•Usea straightedgetooland asharp knifetotrimtheexcess paperat thetop and bottom ofthewall.
•Remembertotake yourtime andbepatient.Wallpaper ismuchmoreforgivingthan outhink.
Formoretipsandtowatchthestep-by-stepvideo,visitwww.masterstrokebyresene.com/wallpaper-tips
ReseneVersaceWallpaper Collection386104.
Collection537345. Wallpapersarebestseeninperson.ViewthefullwallpapercollectionatyourlocalReseneColorShop. ReseneV&AWallpaper Collection2311-170-03.
ReseneV&AWallpaper Collection2311-168-04.
Wallpaper
Step-by-step
ReseneOnlyBlueWallpaper CollectionONB102696234.
Groundedinstyle: flooringtrendsthattransformyourhome
If walls are the backdrop of a room,tthen floors are the foundation.Theyanchoraspace,setthetone,and,evenifyou don’tnoticeit,canhaveaprofoundeffectonhowahomefeels.
Therightflooringcanopenuparoom,add warmth,orgiveitamodernedge,whilepoor choicescanmakeeventhebestinteriorsfeel flat.Fortunately,today’sflooringoptionscombine aestheticswithpracticality,makingiteasierthan evertocreateaspacethatlooksstunningand worksforthewayKiwislive.
Oneofthestrongesttrendsisareturnto naturaltextures.Wide-planktimber, bamboo,orsustainablysourced hardwoodbringsasenseof authenticityandwarmth intoahome.“Natural timberhasagrounding qualitythatmakesa housefeelwelcoming fromthemomentyou stepin,”saysAuckland interiorstylist EmmaLomas.Lightcolouredtimbers, likepaleoakorash, areparticularlypopular incoastalandmodern homes,reflectingNew Zealand’sabundantsunlight andhelpingspacesfeellarger. Darkerstainedtimbers,meanwhile,give amoody,sophisticatedvibeandworkbeautifully inhomeswithahighstudordramaticinterior features.
optionsisthatyoudon’thavetosacrificestylefor practicality,”Lomasexplains.
Tiles,onceconfinedtobathroomsandlaundries, arenowsteppingconfidentlyintolivingareas. Polishedconcrete-effecttilesgiveamodern, streamlinedlook,whilepatternedorterrazzo-style tilesaddenergyandpersonality.Inentryways andsunrooms,tilesarebothbeautifuland functional,standinguptomuddy shoesandwetweatherwithout compromise.Interiordesigner SophieDelaneynotes,“Tiles giveyouthefreedomtoplay withcolourandtexture, andthey’reincredibly durable,whichisperfect forKiwihomeswithhigh trafficzones.”
Forfamilies,busyhouseholds,oranyonewho valueslow-maintenanceliving,luxuryvinylplanks andengineeredtimberhavegrowninpopularity. Modernvinyloptionscanmimicthelookoftimber soconvincinglythatit’shardtotellthedifference, whileofferingtheadvantageofwaterproofingand scratchresistance.Open-plankitchensandliving areasbenefitfromthesematerials,astheycan handlespills,pets,anddailytrafficwithoutlosing theircharm.“Thebeautyofvinylandengineered
Softflooringoptions alsoremainhighly relevant,particularly inbedroomsand lounges.Woolcarpet, longcelebratedinNew Zealandforitscomfortand naturalproperties,continuesto beafavourite.It’swarmunderfoot, naturallybreathable,andhypoallergenic. Recenttrendsleantowardboldercolourchoices suchasdeepgreens,earthyterracotta,andmuted blueswhichcanaddasophisticatedlayerto bedrooms,homeoffices,andmediarooms.Even subtlechangesintexture,likelooppilesorchunky weaves,canmakeacarpetfeelmodernwithout overwhelmingaroom.
Anotherrisingcategoryishybridflooring,which combinesthebenefitsoflaminateandvinyl.Its resilience,easyinstallation,andversatilitymakeit idealforopen-planhomes,whereonecontinuous surfacecanunifykitchen,dining,andloungeareas. Forfamilieswithpetsoryoungchildren,hybrid
optionsalsoprovidepeaceofmind:they’rewaterresiistant,ddurabble,anddforgiiviingundderffoot.
Flooringisn’tjustaboutpracticality;italso profoundlyinfluencesmoodandthesenseof space.Softcarpetscreateacosysanctuaryin bedrooms,whilesmooth,polishedsurfacessuit entertainingareas,coastal-stylehomes,and contemporarydesigns.Darkfloorscananchor largeopen-planinteriors,providingasenseof weightandsophistication,whilelightertones reflectlightandmakesmallerspacesfeelbrighter andmoreexpansive.Forthosewholovetexture, layeringrugsaddscomfort,visualinterest,and zoninginopenlayouts.“Rugsareabrilliantwayto definespaceswithouthardboundaries,”Delaney adds.“Youcancreateasenseofintimacyinalarge livingareajustbylayeringacoupleofdifferent texturesandcolours.”
InNewZealand,flooringchoicesoftenreflectour lifestyleandconnectiontotheoutdoors.Homes frequentlyblurtheboundarybetweeninteriorand exterior,withlargewindows,slidingdoors,and decks.Timber,naturalstone,andearthytextures helpcreateharmonywithsurroundinggardens, whiledurablematerialslikevinylandtilesensure practicalitywhenmovingbetweenwetoutdoor spacesandopen-planlivingzones.
Ultimately,flooringtrendstodayareabout balancingstyle,comfort,andfunction.Whether you’redrawntothenaturalwarmthoftimber,the easymaintenanceofvinyl,theboldstatement ofpatternedtiles,ortheluxuriousfeelofwool carpet,therightfloorwilltransformahomefrom thegroundup.Smallchanges,likeswappingina warmer-tonedtimber,introducingtexturedrugs,or upgradingatiredcarpet,canhaveahugeimpact ontheatmosphereofaroom.
Thekeyistothinkofflooringnotasan afterthought,butasanintegraldesigndecision. Itsetsthetoneforfurniturechoices,lighting,and colourpalettes,andcaneveninfluencehowpeople movethroughaspace.“Whendonewell,flooring doesn’tjustcomplementaroom,itelevatesit,” Lomassays.AndinaKiwihome,wherepracticality meetsrelaxedstyle,therightchoicecantrulymake ahousefeellikehome.
Bringthe OutdoorsIn
Set the scene for summer
SummerinNewZealandisallabouttheoutdoors. Thinklong evenings with friends, sizzling barbecues, and the lingering luxuryofDaylightSavings.
It’snowonderourdecks,patios,andbackyards become the true heart of the home over the warmer months But just like the inside of our houses these spaces can get tired A quick refresh before the season really takes hold will not only make your alfresco area more inviting, but it will alsoextendhowmuchuseyougetoutofit
Thefirststepisalwayspractical:clearthedecks literally A high-pressure wash can instantly revive timber and paving, while a mould cleaner such as 30 Seconds Outdoor Cleaner (available at Mitre 10 andBunnings)willtakecareofanydarkpatchesleft by winter damp Outdoor furniture often bears the bruntoftheweather,socheckforloosefixings,give timberpiecesacoatofCabot’sDeckingOil(Resene and Mitre 10 stock it), and scrub down any shade sails or umbrellas The effect is immediate and suddenlyyou’reworkingwithacleanslate
Once the basics are handled the fun begins Interior designer Rosie Blockley of La Belle Maison saysasuccessfuloutdoorroomshouldfeellikean extension of the home itself “Using earthy tones andnaturaltextureshelpscreateharmonybetween your indoor palette and the surrounding garden,” she explains That might mean carrying a timber floorfinishacrossbifolddoorstothedeck,orsimply repeatingcoloursandfabricstogivetheimpression ofonecohesivelivingzone
Comfort is the next essential New Zealand summers are beautiful but unpredictable and shade or shelter can make or break an alfresco evening Retractable awnings like those from Shade7 or premium pergolas from Sunvue are
investment pieces that give you year-round flexibility For something more budget-friendly Bunnings’ Marquee range of cantilever umbrellas provides excellent shade with a contemporary look Cushions and throws in cotton or linen are a smartwaytosoftenharderfurnitureandintroduce splashesofcolour EarlySettler’soutdoorcollection includes bold patterns and colourful striped cushionsthatfeelperfectlyon-trend Outdoorrugs like those from Freedom Furniture, help anchor a seatingareaandaddinstantwarmthunderfoot
The mood really shifts once you start layering in seasonaltouches Thinkbrightcitrus-tonednapery, striped table runners, or floral ceramics Kmart’s affordable outdoor dinnerware sets are colourful and hard-wearing while Trade Tested has a big range of rattan style lanterns that add a relaxed coastal vibe to any table setting Tablescaping has become a curated summer pastime Try adding mismatched glassware, bunches of fresh herbs, or candles in terracotta holders to create a sense of occasion “It’s those little styling gestures that turn asimpledinnerintosomethingmemorable notes
Blockley
Greenery plays a starring role in New Zealand gardens, and it can be just as effective in alfresco zones Pottednativeslikeflax,ferns,orevenayoung pōhutukawa create a distinct sense of place, while herbssuchasbasil,mint,orrosemaryprovideboth fragrance and function Large statement pots from King’s Plant Barn or Palmers give plants the stage they deserve Grouping pots of different heights adds interest, and hanging baskets or climbers
can frame a pergola beautifully The effect is lush and layered, a garden that feels like it has spilled naturallyintoyouroutdoorroom
Furnituredeservescarefulthoughttoo Investing in durable, weather-resistant pieces is worth it, especially if you live near the coast Locally crafted timber furniture from McKenzie & Willis is built to last while powder-coated aluminium settings at Living Culture or Harvey Norman give excellent resilience against harsh sun For smaller patios or balconies,benchseatingwithascatterofcolourful cushions is a clever space-saver Check out the range of compact bistro sets at The Warehouse theseareidealforapartmentsortownhouses
Atmosphere is everything Lanterns, solarpowered stakes, or strings of fairy lights instantly transform a space into somewhere magical Bunnings festoon lights remain a Kiwi favourite creating instant ambience for under $100 For longer evenings, a fire pit or outdoor heater adds warmthanddrawspeopletogetherinthesameway anindoorfireplacedoes-Mitre10’sBigSmokefire bowlsarebothaffordableandstylish Portablefans ontheotherhand,keeptheairmovingduringsticky afternoons,ensuringyou’recomfortableatallhours oftheday
Andthenthere’sthepracticalsideofentertaining AbarfridgefromNoelLeemingtuckedawayonthe deck, or Keter’s Bevy Bar Cooler Box will keep the evening flowing without constant trips back to the kitchen fridge Buffets and grazing platters are a stress-freewaytoservefood allowinghoststostay part of the party rather than being tied to the grill
Don’t forget a Grillman Food Tent cover and your Shoo Away Fly Repellent Device, both available at Mitre10
A refreshed alfresco space can be as simple as anewsetofcushions,acoatofoilonthedeck,or stringingupalineoffairylights Addinafewherbs, ajugofsomethingcold,andthehumofcicadasin the background, and you ’ ve got the essence of a NewZealandsummerrightatyourbackdoor
Maximise your bathroom on a budget
Even the smallest bathrooms can feel bright, stylish, and functionalwithcleverdesignandbudget-friendlyupdates.
Bathrooms are among the most used and scrutinised rooms in a home yet updating themoftenfeelsdaunting especiallyinsmall spacesorwhenbudgetsaretight Inmodestlysized homespracticalityiskey,andcleverdesignchoices can make a tiny bathroom feel stylish spacious andfunctionalwithoutbreakingthebank
Thefirststepistorethinkspaceandlayout Small bathroomsbenefitfromsmartstorageand thoughtful planning “In compact spaces,everycentimetrecoun says Auckland-based interio designer Sophie Delaney “Look for areas that are oftenoverlookedsuchas above the toilet, under the vanity, or vertical wall space for storage solutions Even small floating shelves or slimline cabinets can makeahugedifference”
Wall-mounted vanities, corner sinks or recessed shelves not only free up floor space but also create th illusionofopenness
creates visual interest without overwhelming the room “You don’t need to tile the entire bathroom,” says Delaney “A few well-placed tiles or a splashback can completely change the look andfeel”Large-formattilesreducegroutlinesand make the space appear bigger, while textured tiles adddepthandcharacter
Budget-friendly updates often focus on fixtures andfittings,whicharerelativelyeasytoswap out A new tap, showerhead, or towel anfeellikeamajorrenovation r a fraction of the cost Matte black or brushed brass fittings are trending and can instantly modernise a space Similarly updating cabinet handles, mirror frames, orlightingfixturesgives a fresh look without extensive structural work
Lighting is another transformative element Naturallightisideal,butformanyKiwi homes thatsnotalwaysanoption Layeredartificial lighting,overhead,task,andaccent,canmakeeven the smallest bathroom feel bright and airy Mirrors also play a key role A large strategically placed mirrorreflectslightandvisuallydoublesthespace, whilemirroredcabinetscombinefunctionalityand style
Tile choices can dramatically affect how a room feels Light,neutraltonesremainpopularforsmall bathrooms as they open the space but bold touchescanaddpersonality Forinstance,afeature wallofpatternedtilesbehindthevanityorshower
Storage solutions don’thavetobeexpensive either Open shelving, baskets, or stackable boxes p essentials tidy and stylish
Even repurposing small furniture pieces, like a slim chest of drawers or a vintage stool can add character while providing practical storage Wall hooks and rails are simple ways to keep towels and robes off floors, maintainingasenseofspace
Softfurnishingsandaccessoriesofferachanceto injectcolour,texture,andpersonalityonabudget New towels, mats, and shower curtains can be changed seasonally or to reflect trends creating a freshlookwithoutafullrenovation “Accessoriesare acost-effectivewaytoupdateabathroomregularly, says Delaney “They allow you to experiment with colour, pattern, and style without committing to a bigproject”
ForthosewillingtotackleabitofDIY repainting cabinetryorrefreshinggroutandsealantcanmake oldsurfacesfeelnew Paintinlight,neutraltones,or softpastelskeepsthespacefeelingcleanandopen Similarly, peel-and-stick tiles or waterproof wall panels are popular in small bathrooms, providing a low-cost way to modernise without extensive renovation
Sustainability and efficiency are also important considerations Water-savingtaps,dual-flushtoilets, and energy-efficient lighting reduce running costs while being kinder to the environment Even small steps,likeinstallingashowertimerorswappingin low-flowshowerheads makeadifferenceovertime
Asuccessfulbathroomupdateisaboutprioritising function, using the space cleverly, and injecting thoughtful design touches A compact bathroom doesn’t mean compromising on style Even the tiniestbathroomcanfeelluxurious,functional,and reflectiveofyourpersonality Youdontneedsquare metresorabigbudgettomakeabigimpression
TOP TIP
It’scommonforhomeownerstodeclutterand repainttheirplacereadytosellandthenfall backinlovewiththeirhomeagain!Kitchensand bathroomsareagreatplacetostartonarefresh There’snoneedtoripoutallthecabinetry Justcleanandpreplaminateandmelamine cupboardsanddrawerswithReseneLaminate andMelaminePrimer,applyReseneLustacryl topcoatsandaddnewhandlestogetyourspace lookingasgoodasnew
Sellupordoup? Makingtherightchoiceforyourhome
Shouldyourenovateyourcurrentpropertyormoveto somethingnew?Here’showtoweightheoptions.
Everyhomeownerreachesapointwhenthey askthemselves:isittimetosellupandmove, orstayputandinvestinimprovingwhatI’ve got?Inacompetitivepropertymarket,thisquestion isasmuchaboutlifestyleasitisaboutfinance. Bothoptionshaveadvantagesandchallenges, andmakingtherightchoicecomesdowntoamix ofpracticalconsiderations,emotionalfactors,and long-termgoals.
UnderstandingYourMotivation
Startbythinkingcarefullyaboutwhyyou’re consideringachange.Isyourcurrenthometoo smallforyourgrowingfamily,lackingmodern features,orsimplyfeelingoutdated?Orisyourlocal neighbourhoodtherealdraw,withschools,work, andcommunityallintherightplace?Auckland propertyconsultantTessaReidexplains,“People oftenunderestimatetheemotionalattachmentto theirhome.Whilerenovationscanimprovecomfort, sometimesmovingisthebestwaytoachievethe lifestyleyouwant,particularlyiflocationorsizeis non-negotiable.”
TheRenovationRoute
Doingupyourexistingpropertycanbeasmart option,especiallyifyoulovethelocationandthe bonesofthehomearesolid.Renovationscanrange fromminorcosmeticupdateslikefreshpaint,new flooring,orakitchenrefresh,tomajorstructuralwork suchasextensionsorbathroomoverhauls. Oneofthebiggestadvantagesofrenovatingis control.Youcantailorthespacetoyourexacttastes, addmodernconveniences,andincreaseboth comfortandresalevalue.WellingtondesignerClaire Thompsonnotes,“Smallchangeslikeimproved storage,betterlighting,orupdatedfixturescan completelytransformahome.EveninolderKiwi houses,thoughtfuldesigninterventionsmakea spacefeelbrandnew.”
Butrenovationscomewithcaveats.Costscan escalatequickly,particularlyifstructuralissuesarise orbuildingconsentisneeded.Disruptiontodailylife,
timeframes,andbudgetingforunexpectedexpenses areallfactorstoconsider.ManyKiwisunderestimate thesechallenges,andwhilearenovationcanadd value,itdoesn’talwayscoverthefullcostofthe improvementswhenselling.
TheSell-UpOption
Sellingyourcurrentpropertyandmovingtoanew homeisoftenthesimpleroption,particularlyifyour needshaveoutgrownyourcurrentspaceorlocation. Movingallowsyoutofindapropertythatfitsyour lifestylewithoutthestressofconstructionwork,and potentiallyinaneighbourhoodorschoolzoneyou prefer.
However,thepropertymarketaddscomplexity. Pricescanfluctuate,andinareaslikeAuckland, Wellington,orQueenstown,findingtherighthome canbecompetitive.Therearealsotransactioncostslegalfees,agentcommissions,andmovingexpenses -thatcaneatintothefinancialgain.Reidsays,“It’s importanttoweighwhatyou’llgainversusthecosts ofsellingandbuying.Sometimesstayingputand doingtargetedrenovationsgivesabetterreturnon investment.”
HybridApproaches
Somehomeownersfindamiddlegroundbydoing minorimprovementsbeforeselling,boostingtheir property’sappealandvalue.Simpleupgradeslikea freshcoatofpaint,landscaping,orupdatedkitchenor bathroomfixtures,canmakeasignificantdifference
withoutthetimeandexpenseofafullrenovation.For thosewhowantthebestofbothworlds,thesesmall changescanmaximisesalepricewhilestillallowing youtomoveintoapropertythatsuitsyourlifestyle perfectly.
MakingtheDecision
Ultimately,thedecisiontosellupordoupcomes downtothreekeyquestions:
1.Canthehomemeetyourneedslong-term?
2.Willrenovationsdeliverthelifestyleandvalue you’relookingfor?
3.Doesthecostanddisruptionofrenovating outweighthebenefitsofmoving?
Claritycomesfromhonestassessment,advicefrom propertyanddesignprofessionals,andrealistic budgeting.Somehomeownersmaychooseto renovateasmallerspacetosuittheircurrentlifestyle, whileothersopttosellandsecuretheirdreamhome, avoidinglong-termcompromises.
EmotionalandLifestyleConsiderations
Beyondbricksandmortar,lifestyleoftendrives thechoice.Proximitytofamily,work,schools,and communitycanoutweighsizeordesignissues. Similarly,theemotionalsatisfactionofahome thattrulyfitsyourpersonalityanddailyroutine isinvaluable.Thompsonnotes,“Awell-styled, functionalhomeintherightlocationcanmake stayingputmorerewardingthananynewproperty.”
Renovatingcanrevitaliseabelovedhome,while movingmayprovidethespace,features,orlocation you’vebeenlongingfor.Bycarefullyweighingcosts, benefits,andlifestylefactors,youcanchoosethe paththatbestsupportsyourlifetoday,andforyears tocome.
TOPTIP
Whenyou’reselling,firstimpressionscount. Makesureyourhome’sexteriorhelpssellyour house.OnequickwaytocleanitiswithResene PaintPrepandHousewash.It’saninstantfresh showerforyourhomeandwillcleanupyour paintworkfast.ThenuseReseneEnamacrylto addawelcomingnewcolourtoyourfrontdoor. Youcancleanexteriorwallsandpaintyourdoor inaday,readyforyourhomebuyerstovisit.
