Reader roundup: Before and afters to WOW all!

16 Jul 2024

Who doesn’t love a good before and after? We have some great projects to show that prove colour can make all the difference! From bathrooms to kitchens and fences – these projects are sure to get you inspired. Remember we love to see your finished projects, especially before and afters, so please email us some photos and the Resene colours and/or Resene wallpapers you used to editor@habitatbyresene.co.nz.   

Lynne recently gave her bathroom a much-needed refresh. When she purchased her home, the bathroom was a mix of gold, grey and white. “Perhaps to look like an Egyptian bath house?” Lynne says. “We didn’t like it, and preferred a palette that lends itself to a coastal style. We couldn't afford a bathroom makeover so decided we would see if we could make an improvement just with paint.” 

It took Lynne 10 testpots to finally settle on Resene Half Inside Back, a tranquil green edged grey. She also made the “brave” decision to paint the bathroom floor, and after prepping and sanding the surface, painted this using Resene Walk-on in the shade Resene Eighth Akaroa. Lynne also used a coat of Resene Concrete Wax to smooth out the floor and create a nicer surface to walk on.  

What a refresh! This cabinet has been given a new life, painted in Resene Black and stained in ReseneColorwood Natural. Check out the ReseneColorwood range to update your old wooden furniture!  

Angela knew there was something missing in her living room, and after realising a blank white wall was staring straight at her, she knew there was only one thing to do. A feature wall can make all the difference to a space, especially in an all-white room. Angela chose Resene Half Karaka, a deep rich green, which complements the tan leather couches and other earthy tones in her living room. We love the result!  

Liam transformed his driveway by giving the fence a new colour. Using Resene Woodsman Pitch Black, to match the side of the house, the fence is now a dark hue that offers a contemporary and fresh look. Resene Woodsman comes in a variety of shades and can be used outdoors on fences, decking, planter boxes and more!  

If you’re planning a dark colour, consider using the Resene CoolColour version of your colour to help reflect more heat. 

Proving that small colour adjustments can make all the difference, Bernie painted dated white kitchen cabinets in a sleek grey, Resene Half Silver Chalice. This silvered grey-blue provides a touch of character and freshness to the space.  

Neralee sought help from Resene Colour Expert Meryl Southey after seeing a house with a gorgeous slate blue. Gone is the dated cream, and in its place isResene Westminster, a striking grey blue shade. Alongside this colour, used on the entryway and exterior weatherboards, Neralee chose Resene Tuna for the plaster surfaces. The front door remains in a colour they have loved, Resene Foundry. “I’m so glad I spoke to Meryl before we went ahead,” says Neralee. “I love Resene Westminster that she suggested, it’s the perfect balance between grey and blue in the tone we were after.” 

If you need help from a Resene Colour Expert like Meryl, use the free Ask a Resene Colour Expert service online or visit your local Resene ColorShop. 

Share your projects using Resene with us – we love to see them! Email us at editor@habitatbyresene.co.nz.   

Published: 16 Jul 2024