One large building designed to look like a complex of small traditional farm buildings linked together, the Taranaki Country Lodge is spread along an exposed east west ridge on Hurstmere Road, New Plymouth with views to the coastline and Mt Taranaki. Cedar weatherboards and large Oregon beams allow the lodge to blend into the landscape while cleverly positioned courtyards provide the best of the outdoors while being protected from wind by adjoining built spaces.

The kitchen is the heart of the lodge and is where the guest quarters meet the owner quarters. The entire building is linked by a single long glazed passage running the full length ending with the owner's entry.

The palette is striking, from feature areas of Resene Lusty (rich orange red) in the guest lounge, to Resene Gingko (earthy yellow neutral) in the family lounge complemented by Resene Chrome White (sea spume green) walls, Resene Oilskin (complex brown) doors, Resene Taupe Grey (mid grey brown) architraves and skirtings and Resene Citrine White (yellow green white) ceilings.

Each guest bedroom has its own personality reflected in its palette – Resene Bardot (soft toned warm yellow), Resene Ivanhoe (slate blue), Resene Tarot (deep purple) and Resene Pohutukawa (spicy rich red). Even the garage enjoys a splash of colour decorated in Resene Sycamore (yellow green).

The unique design has been rewarded with a NZIA Resene Architecture Award – Western Awards – Hospitality and Tourism and accolades from guests.

Architect: Elliott Architects
Owner: Jim and Robyn Hutchinson
Painting Contractor: Richard Palmer
Resene: New Plymouth
From the Resene News – issue 4/2006