Bold moves

From Resene and Your Home and Garden

Finalist 2 – Colour Home Awards Competition

A kaleidoscope of colour adds warmth and vibrancy to this Arrowtown new-build.

Bold new-build kitchen painted in green Resene Bush

Moving across the country is the perfect opportunity to try something new. For Rae and Nick Prentis, the move from Auckland to Arrowtown prompted a fresh start when decorating their new home. “We wanted something classic but with heaps of personality and colour that would stand out in this charming town,” says Rae.

Their home – a new-build – has become a kaleidoscope of colour. The kitchen was painted first in Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen in Resene Bush, a traditional palm and everglade green. “Green is my favourite colour, and after trying countless shades, Resene Bush stole my heart and became the foundation of the whole scheme,” says Rae.

“I was obsessed with creating a colour palette that flowed perfectly throughout the home – no clashing or jarring transitions,” says Rae. “I wanted our home to feel bold but also classic, with an autumnal palette.”

The living room was painted in Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen in Resene Blue Night, a dark blue with a feeling of depth and infinity. One bedroom was painted in Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen in Resene Arthouse. The chic deep red was a surprise to some, but Rae couldn’t be happier. “That deep pinot noir red feels warm, cocooning and timeless. I honestly can’t imagine the house any other way now.”

There are neutrals, too. The ceilings were painted in Resene Lustacryl in Resene Wan White and the second bedroom is painted in Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen in Resene Tino Pai, a blended bridge between grey and brown. They also painted the fireplace surround in the living room to create an interesting accent. “I wanted a grey in the mix to tie everything together. Resene Tino Pai works seamlessly with the other colours and gives balance to the richer tones,” says Rae.

There are still jobs to do and projects to tackle. Rae is spending her time dreaming up some new ideas to beautify their home. One thing’s for sure – the colour is here to stay. “It’s bold. It’s us.”

Colourul and vibrant bedroom design

Rae Prentis with basset hounds Beauregard and Huckleberry

Interior fireplace with walls painted in Resene Blue Night

Rae with basset hounds Beauregard and Huckleberry.

Colours mentioned in this article

More Resene colours to try

Products mentioned in this article

 

Text by Bryony Ammonds-Smith. Photography by Marina Mathews. Colour Home Awards 2025/2026

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