Bold and beautiful
A lesson in using bold colour paired with a simple and refined style.
A lesson in using bold colour paired with a simple and refined style.
styling AMBER ARMITAGE @ MARIGOLD
photos WENDY FENWICK @ FLASH STUDIOS
wall colours RESENE PAINTS
Above
Main wall painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Bianca, left wall and cabinet in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Resolution Blue and dining room in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Coral Tree.
Floor finished in Resene Colorwood Breathe Easy. Trove Wrap occasional chair, Hayes side table, Hayes dining table 4 seater, Rye dining arm chairs, all from Soren Liv. 'Iris In Enamel Jug' by Neil Driver, available from Parnell Gallery.
Halo Raffia table lamp from Kayu Studio. Ceramic balloon bowl 05 in Raw White, Verso jug, Crystal soda glass, Otto bowls, ceramic basket, all from Slow Store. Safi rug from Baya.
Above
Wall painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Coral Tree, wall trim in SpaceCote Flat in Resene Prairie Sand.
'Seeing Rainbows' by Greer Clayton available from Parnell Gallery.
Fin bedside table by Ellison Studio, Kizu Kable lamp, crystal soda glass, from Slow Store.
Natural linen duvet cover from Foxtrot Home. Brick Linen Lodge pillowcases, Cabin wool blanket, Folio cushion cover, oversized carryall bag all from Citta.
Stylist’s tip
When using a bold statement wall colour keep your furniture and homeware selections aligned with the same aesthetic. Simple bold furniture shapes (such as the curves on the bedside and lamp) work well, as do oversized patterns and block colours that are a tint or tone of the wall colour.
Above
Back wallpainted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Resolution Blue, front wall and slats in SpaceCote Flat in Resene Bianca.
Floor finished in Resene Colorwood Breathe Easy. Seville tile side table from Soren Liv.
'Islands On The Edge' by Shona Mackenzie, available from Parnell Gallery.
Ceramic basket from Slow Store.
Above
Wall, shelf and cabinet painted in Resene SpaceCote Flat in Resene Resolution Blue.
Hayes side table and Rufus curve bookends from Soren Liv.
'Tide Times' by Greer Clayton available from Parnell Gallery.
Halo Raffia table lamp from Kayu Studio.
Muse 2 seater and Yoko capsule coffee table by Ellison Studio, bubble glass grape tray, ceramic basket, all from Slow Store.
Gene woven cushion from Citta. Safi rug from Baya.
Masterful simplicity
Perched above nature, this peaceful home showcases refined minimalism and breathtaking rural vistas.
Perched above nature, this peaceful home showcases refined minimalism and breathtaking rural vistas.
words JO FERRIS
The serenity of rural seclusion is absolute in this hidden pocket within Western Bay. Nestled at the end of a private lane, the home’s elevated position above a vast lawn makes an immediate impression. It presents the advantage of views, while the backdrop of towering trees instantly suggests prolific birdlife.
As a young home, there is ample potential to develop the grounds into playground pastimes. The owners have already planted numerous fruit trees and sown banks with wildflowers, herbs and lavender. Tiered gardens in front of the house complement its clean lines, while hinting at the style behind its vision.
Mindful of melting into nature, not dominating it, the home's designers have mastered the art of restraint. The simplicity of minimalism actually hides the intricacy behind it. It’s not easy maintaining that concept, but this home achieves it with respectful appreciation.
It begins at the formal welcome, with a massive pivot front door. The connection between outdoor elements and rooms inside – while unobtrusive – are evident throughout. The horizontal thread of larch on exterior cladding continues on feature walls inside. Full-height glazing ensures nature and views are always in sight, while recessed motorised blinds maintain the clean look of minimalism.
The heart of the home revels in sun and a country outlook. Devoid of any clutter, it adheres to the restrained philosophy with extraordinary skill. The kitchen showcases a bold dark tone of textured cabinetry, negative detail and integrated appliances, while the hidden scullery enjoys the appeal of open shelving.
Banks of stacker doors instil a seamless link with outdoor relaxation. Polished concrete flooring is finished with a salt-and-pepper tone, putting a new slant on concrete’s functional appeal and capacity to harness solar warmth. Zoned underfloor heating is there if required, however – including in all three bathrooms. The media room has the mood of a flame, with its gas-fire cosy ambience.
The owner's privacy is assured in one wing, which includes an office for work; while an ensuite guest room and remaining bedrooms offer options in the far wing. Every bathroom is fully tiled – similarly designed with dark allure and a no-fuss approach. Except the main bathroom – where the white oval bath is the star; fronting a full-height window for a garden outlook.
Complex simplicity underpins an extraordinary home. Its promise of privacy – at one with nature – cannot be emphasised enough.
6H Ainsworth Road, Minden