Light fantastic

Decorating articles and inspiration from TrendsIdeas

Once gloomy and uninviting, this interior now exudes an airy, light-filled charm – the subtle Resene palette was chosen by Lymesmith and Amber Road.

Sometimes a tricky design issue can be resolved by a clever use of wall surfaces.

Winner of the Resene Total Colour Neutrals Award, this interiors project was a collaboration between colour consultant Sonia van de Haar of Lymesmith and designer Yasmine Ghoniem of Amber Road.

The existing weatherboard house was in a beautiful waterside location but was gloomy and unwelcoming. Cool-toned marble floors meant warming up the white walls wasn't an option. In addition, the clients were wary of the use of colour.

To create a dynamic spatial play in the open-plan living spaces, a custom charcoal (KMK Gravel – Resene Gravel with added black), Resene Taupe Grey, and bright Resene Quarter Bianca were applied. The white areas bring vibrancy, the charcoal accentuates the entry and staircase, and the Resene Taupe Grey gives depth to the living zone, and frames views of the water.

Downstairs, floating birch panelling is juxtaposed with Resene Quarter Bianca walls to create warmth and vitality. And KMK Gravel was introduced in the master bathroom, too, making a feature of the sculptural white bathtub and hand basin.