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Exterior panels in Resene Stack, Spring Rain, White Pointer, Woodstock and Charm, fascias and trims in Stack, all using Resene Lumbersider.
Exterior panels in Resene Stack, Spring Rain, White Pointer, Woodstock and Charm, fascias and trims in Stack, all using Resene Lumbersider.
Exterior panels painted in Resene Lumbersider in Stack, Spring Rain, White Pointer, Woodstock and Charm, interior walls in Eighth Blanc.
A splash of colour on the coast
Clean architectural lines, timber tones and warm neutrals reflect this home’s surrounding coastal environment. But it’s the carefully placed bursts of colour that really bring an unexpected sense of joy.
Inspired by the area's vibrant history, the playful exterior shows that even a more restrained use of colour adds plenty of personality.
Designed by Parsonson Architects as a retreat for a Wellington family, the home was created to be both practical and beautiful. The brief called for a lock-up-and-leave home that would accommodate everything from quiet weekends away to large family gatherings, all while standing up to the sometimes-rugged coastal conditions.
Exterior panels in Resene Stack, Spring Rain, White Pointer, Woodstock and Charm, fascias and trims in Stack, all using Resene Lumbersider.
Exterior fascias and trims in Resene Stack.
"The house is designed with an L-shaped main level that wraps around a north-facing sheltered courtyard," says architect Gerald Parsonson. "This level sits upon a large flexible and openable undercroft, which can be used as a garage, for storage or as a games area."
One of the most striking features is certainly the brightly coloured panels that punctuate the exterior. They add rhythm and movement against the weatherboard cladding, echoing the relaxed spirit that once defined Riversdale Beach.
"Riversdale Beach Resort was created by Basil Bodle in the 1950s, who had a vision of creating a relaxed European-style resort, full of playfulness and colour, with many countries' flags flying and flowers lining the streets," says Gerald. "We wanted to sample a little of this original joy and enthusiasm in the shape and colours used in the new house."
Exterior panels in Resene Stack, Spring Rain, White Pointer, Woodstock and Charm.
The panels are painted in Resene Stack, Spring Rain, White Pointer, Woodstock and Charm, creating a colourful symphony that catches the light throughout the day. A darker neutral, Stack, wraps the fascia and trims, grounding the palette and tying the brighter accents into the wider design.
Inside, the colour story is calm and relaxed, allowing the panoramic views to take centre stage. The walls are painted in Eighth Blanc to provide a soft, warm backdrop, while Half Delta defines the trims, joinery and interior details with subtle depth.
Interior walls in Resene Eighth Blanc, architraves in Half Delta.
Walls in Resene Eighth Blanc, architraves in Half Delta.
Rather than relying solely on neutrals, carefully placed moments of colour continue throughout the home. The rich blue of Resene Bismark wraps the hallway walls and doors, adding depth and interest to transitional spaces, while Juniper brings an unexpected layer of colour to bedroom and hallway ceilings. The shade draws the eye upward and creates intimate, cocooning spaces.
Hallway walls and doors in Resene Bismark, ceiling in Juniper.
Bathroom walls in Resene Half Delta, ceiling and trims in Eighth Blanc.
Natural timber ceilings, generous glazing and an open-plan layout further strengthens the connection between indoors and out. Sunlight pours through living spaces, while large windows frame uninterrupted coastline views, ensuring the ever-changing landscape remains the hero.
Delivering the project from afar required a trusted local team, something Gerald says made all the difference. "Working more remotely we were reliant on a local contractor and sub-contractors. Marty Dawes and his whole team were fantastic to deal with and all working towards a great outcome, including Stu Ingham from Coastal Decorating, a one-man-band who did the entire painting contract himself."
Exterior panels painted in Resene Lumbersider in Stack, Spring Rain, White Pointer, Woodstock and Charm, interior walls in Eighth Blanc.
Thoughtful architecture, a carefully layered colour palette, and playful nods to Riversdale's colourful past have created a beach house that is both resilient and full of character.
design Parsonson Architects
painting Stu Ingham, Coastal Decorating
build Dawes Construction
images Paul McCredie
Resene Pro Tip:
If you’ve got timber features in your home, there are a couple of ways you can add character and protect them. Use a Resene Colorwood stain – there are many shades to choose from including dark stains like Pitch Black, warmer stains like Meranti, and lighter stains like Rock Salt or Bask. You will then need to apply a clear finish such as Resene Aquaclear (available in Natural or dead flat through to high gloss) to protect the timber and the stain.
Alternatively, for wall panelling Resene Natural Wood Oil can be used. It is also our recommendation for wall panelling and ceilings that progress to outdoor spaces.
To add subtle colour and protect wood, use Resene Colour Enhance, which can be added to your clear coat.
Published: 09 Jul 2026
Do you have a home full of wonderful Resene paint and colour? Send us some snaps by emailing editor@habitatbyresene.co.nz.
Resene White Pointer
the look
If you're stuck on what
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Resene White Pointer
the look
If you're stuck on what
colour to use or need colour
advice, try out the Resene
Ask a Colour Expert service.
