1950s bungalow
Christchurch
Being a passionate colour believer Becky Lee was itching to get some colour onto the walls and put a stamp on her home but knowing this was not her ‘forever home’ she didn’t want to rush into it and overspend on decorating costs.
The crisp white backdrop of Resene Black White made the colourful furniture, art, and accessories really sing… but after a couple of years it was time to start adding some colour, inspired by the 50s.
The quintessential checkerboard floor from the 50s is referenced with strong black and white elements throughout. The crisp Resene Black White on walls and all trims and ceilings is combined with the strong black elements in the kitchen, black blinds, and black hardware on the barn door in the lounge.
The iconic colours of the 50s; pink, turquoise and mint green play a starring role throughout with the first injection of pink paint being applied to the dining table hand painted with Resene Smitten in Resene Super Gloss enamel – a dynamic hardwearing finish that has stood up well to the trials of busy family life.
Old hospital beds from Becky’s childhood were refreshed with Resene Lustacryl semi-gloss waterborne enamel in Resene Energise, which pops against the complementary wall colour in that room – Resene Keppel.
The conservatory that was added in the 70s was rejuvenated with Resene Lumbersider low sheen paint tinted to Resene St Kilda applied to the brick walls and concrete floor. A dark mineral blue – it’s a fabulous backdrop for bold Resene Bombshell finished chair and the joyful Evie Kemp artwork that suggests you are entering the home of a colour lover!
Gold is used as an accent colour in accessories and fabrics throughout the home, including the paint palette, with Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen tinted to Resene Apache in the master bedroom.
The lounge proved the hardest room but is now striking in Resene Rouge. The feature wall is finished in Resene SpaceCote Flat for its chalky matt finish. At night it soaks up the light and becomes moody and luxurious, but during the day it is cheerful and lively.
Where would a 1950s inspired scheme be without a blush pink bathroom? The bathroom already had good bones with the previous owners adding a gorgeous grey granite bath surround and vanity top. But with its tiled floor, single glazing and white walls it always felt like a fridge. Resene Lustacryl Kitchen & Bathroom tinted to Resene Sakura has added a beautiful warm glow; walking into the room gives you the feeling of a really lovely hug!
Interior designer: Becky Lee
Project: Resene Total Colour Awards 2018