Not all neutrals are created equal. The designer of this home interior chose a fresh neutral shade that provides a lively, interesting backdrop for the owners' furnishings.

Judges in the Resene Total Colour Awards 2014 were so impressed with the overall scheme they awarded Henri Sayes the Resene Total Colour Residential Award. In announcing the award, the judges said the project presented a "beautiful contrast of neutrals with a confident, brave ceiling".

"This home has a lovely integration of colour that delineates and defines the spaces and transitions. Subdued and considered, it adds an element of surprise. It's not bright or garish, yet the colour brings personality to the space."

The judges also praised the rhythm and flow of the interior, and the way the warm tones on the ceiling bring a sense of playfulness to the home.

The walls shown here are painted in Resene Friar Grey, described as a yellow-based stone grey. The ceiling on the upper level features Resene Bonanza, a warm, velvety flesh-toned pink, and the study walls are in Resene Raptor, described as a murky dinosaur green. Resene SpaceCote Flat was used for all these surfaces.