From BlackWhite magazine - issue 10, Resene Total Colour Awards
The latest group of Resene Total Colour Award winners accept their accolades.
The Resene Total Colour Awards continue to set the benchmark for excellence in colour use, inspiring present and future generations of architects, design professionals, painters, builders, artists and students to experiment and innovate. As this year’s ceremony demonstrated, the love of colour remains stronger than ever, and the future of colour in New Zealand and Australian design is brighter than ever.
1. Commercial Exterior Award + Colour Master Nightingale Award. Image: Eleanor Eugster
For years, the Resene Total Colour Awards have been a highlight of New Zealand Fashion Week, celebrating excellence in the use of colour across architecture, interiors, landscapes, public, commercial, educational, retail and hospitality spaces as well as artist and student work. The latest winners of the prestigious Resene Total Colour Awards were officially recognised at a colourful awards ceremony held, for the first time, during Auckland Design Week. This new setting underscored the synergy between colour and creativity – reinforcing Resene’s commitment to inspiring, innovative and thoughtful applications of colour in design.
This year’s event was a significant milestone, not only due to the remarkable volume and quality of project submissions, but because it also marked the 15th anniversary since the Resene Total Colour Awards first began. From daring exterior transformations to meticulously curated interior colour palettes, murals and student concepts, this year’s winners showcased a stunning array of projects that have pushed the boundaries of the expressive power of Resene’s extensive paint, wood stain and wallpaper ranges. Taking home the top honour, the Resene Total Colour Master Nightingale Award, as well as the Resene Total Colour Commercial Exterior Award, was the joyful repainting of the Chelsea Sugar Head Office exterior. On what was once a standard office building, a new confection of sweet hues brings a burst of imaginative energy to inspire the young users of the adjacent playground through a vibrant yet historically sensitive Resene colour palette that features Resene Foundry, Resene Red Damask, Resene Outrageous, Resene Supernova, Resene Yellow Sea, Resene Simply Red, Resene Scrumptious, Resene Illusion, Resene Titania and Resene Woodsman Oregon.
The judging panel, which included Sylvia Sandford (colour expert), John Walsh (previous editor of Architecture, architecture writer) and Laura Lynn Johnston (editor of BlackWhite magazine, previous editor of habitat magazine), praised the thoughtfulness behind the many projects submitted, noting how Resene products were not only used aesthetically but also functionally to evoke emotion, define space and enhance user experience. While not every project could be recognised with an award, they were awestruck by the talent, creativity and efforts on display in each submission.
Congratulations to all the award winners and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who took the time to enter their projects in the awards. Several winning projects have been featured in this issue and we look forward to showcasing many projects through future issues of BlackWhite magazine, habitat magazine and our regular email newsletters.
Beca Ltd
Chelsea Sugar Head Office Exterior Colour Scheme
Judges: “Sugar and spice and all things nice, this project speaks in colour. A perfect example of the transformational power of paint and colour, the colour palette does the heavy lifting to take a once unassuming structure and turn it into an eyecatching feature. When working with an iconic colour, new colour choices can sometimes feel restrained – but not with this project. The diagonal placement of this adventurous colour palette gives the building and hues an extra burst of energy and excitement. The colours feel like they belong so well it’s hard to imagine this project without them. Each hue cleverly plays off one another, contrasting and accentuating the next. It’s quite simply delicious.”
Image: Eleanor Eugster
Annabel Berry Creative Co
Whitestone Cheese Diner & Deli
Judges: “Irresistibly charming, who wouldn’t want to go into a café that looks like this? The fun, playful and nostalgic colour palette draws you in with a sense of anticipation about what lies within. It touches on all the best elements of what makes retro designs charming, neatly packaged into a colourful wrapping that puts a refreshing spin on vintage-inspired hues. An exemplary showcase of the power of colour that has turned an overlooked building into a must-visit local landmark.”
Image: Rachel Wybrow Photography
Paul Bradley, Pauly B
WOTSO Takapuna Internal Stairwell
Judges: “An adventure in colour, brimming with the anticipation of not knowing what new surprise awaits just around the corner. This exuberant and unexpected use of colour acts as a freeflowing organic design juxtaposed against the formal structure of the stairs. It fills the space with enthusiasm and optimism. Using a wide palette of hues from dark to light and glimmering touches of metallic, it’s fast become a favourite feature.”
Image: Tosca Christie
CTRL Space
The Formery
Judges: “Infused with a sophisticated air of ‘office space meets corporate club’, this project cleverly transforms a workplace into something that feels more like a hospitality space. The colours and sheen levels have been carefully selected to play with the lighting and set the mood. The scheme is beautifully harmonious and wellgrounded as a means of supporting those engaged in mutually rewarding business discussions. This palette means business.”
Image: Sarah Grace
DLA Architects
Gateways Apartments Replacement Windshields
Judges: “The joyful colour selections ingeniously revitalise this prominent building, infusing it with life, energy and positivity through the thoughtfully chosen and ever-so-carefully placed colour palette. It has been transformed into a friendly and visually engaging landmark. The clever installation technique ensures both aesthetic appeal and sustainable maintenance, setting a benchmark for modern architectural rejuvenation. A textbook example of how a little colour can go a long way.”
Image: Paul McCredie
PAC Studio Ltd and Steven Lloyd Architecture
Crinkle Cut
Judges: “An unexpected soft pink lifts this home out of the ordinary. Surrounded by bush, it would have been ever-so-easy to paint this house all white, yet the subtle touch of colour brings so much more. It’s instantly soothing, creating a relaxed retreat to enjoy as a respite from the busy city. Cleverly combined with crisp white, the pairing helps the eye read the slipper pink hue and appreciate its subtle beauty. A whisper of colour that speaks volumes.”
Image: Simon Devitt
Hello Home Interiors
Iconic Wellington Apartment
Judges: “Colour makes this space, celebrating the essence of mid-century modern design with a well-balanced and vibrant colour palette that adds joy and interest without overwhelming the senses. Every detail harmoniously supports the palette. The curated application of colour on the open shelving transforms groupings of personal treasures into museum-worthy displays. Tailormade for the client, this home is a haven.”
Image: Anna Briggs
Marlene Hudson Design
Shades of Hydrangea
Judges: “Colour transforms this house into a welcoming family home by creating an open, light-filled space complemented by beautifully contrasting features. There is a strong connection between the interior and the surrounding environment, as if elements of the outdoors have been invited inside. Thoughtful planning has ensured it is both functional and inviting, perfectly suited for busy life. Colour has helped make this house an easy-to-live-in home.”
Image: Tracey Scott
Dwelling Architectural Design
St Hilda’s Chapel & Whitby Redevelopment
Judges: “Colour is a powerful tool when wielded well – and this project certainly wields it with expertise, using a tasteful colour palette to draw attention to select architectural elements and to set the scene. Perched high on the hilltop, the blue reaches out to the sky, enlivening the building and giving it presence. It’s strong, purposeful and confident.”
Pacific Environments NZ Ltd
Northcote Intermediate School
Judges: “Inspiring students to reach their potential is a cornerstone of education and this colour palette embraces this vision wholeheartedly. Powerful colour choices rise on the vertical, visually reinforcing the strength of the architecture. The colours are ever-so-carefully arranged with a rhythm that plays off the texture and key architectural features, adding energy without overwhelming and infusing it with character.”
Image: Barry Tobin
Carter Williamson Architects
The Village Preschool
Judges: “An exquisite project, this beautiful ethereal palette is totally complementary to the architecture. It feels calm and serene, ready to be injected with the bustling energy of small children. While it may at first glance appear neutral, it cleverly weaves together a complex palette of light-coloured hues combined with neutrals to soften the structure. This dreamy colour blend is easy to fall in love with.”
Image: Katherine Lu
Briar Newman
A Colourful, Feminist Vision for Community
Judges: “This project boldly reimagines space through a feminist lens, using a dynamic pink palette with supplementary hues to empower and nurture. By thoughtfully manipulating colour, the design transforms the area into a supportive haven, celebrating life and femininity. The skilful integration of colour creates a harmonious environment that invites women to confidently claim their space. This colour palette exudes courage and tenacity.”
Javani Govender
RE: indigenise, vitalise, generate, vegetate, juvenate
Judges: “Masterfully integrating health and community, this project emanates warmth and a sense of grounding that resonates with the land. In a world searching for well-being and mindfulness, the colour palette deftly achieves both. Drawing inspiration from traditional whare blended with subtle Japanese influences, the concept connects to the environment to evoke an inviting space that is welcoming to everyone. A colour palette for all to enjoy.”
Omea Hall
Summit Spas
Judges: “The epitome of alpine sophistication, this project blends seamlessly with the strength of its surrounding mountaintops while maintaining a lovely lightness. There’s a perfect fit between the breathtaking design and the carefully chosen colour palette. The meticulous attention to specification of this ambitious project reflects a level of care associated with professionals. It’s a stunningly beautiful space, perfect for relaxation.”
Elise Cautley, Claire Ford and Jennifer Gao
Femme-ly Velues
Judges: “Picking a bold palette of colours that works well together is one achievement; weaving those same colours together into a giant folly is an even greater one. This ambitious project catches the eye with its novel colour combination and structure. Towering above the land, the open weave gives the sense that the colours are playing with their surroundings. It’s a handcrafting of hues taken to a whole new level.”
Image: Sam Hartnett
Auckland Council
Pukekawa/Auckland Domain Band Rotunda Refurbishment
Judges: “There’s something delightful about when old is made new and it’s even more satisfying when bland becomes beautiful. The complementary palette feels at one with its environment yet refined and elevated. The judicious use of colour highlights the architectural detailing while the repetitive placement of colour helps each hue feel like it truly belongs. Colour has not just refreshed this rotunda, it’s revived it from top to bottom.”
Athfield Architects
The Jim Wakefield Pavilion
Judges: “When it comes to the traditions of colours associated with games, you can’t go far past the tradition of white in cricket. Nestled in park land that moves through the colours of the seasons, this project has embraced the essence of cricket whites. This understated neutral palette stands out amongst the natural tones of the park and allows the continuity of the sweeping forms to be the hero. In a landscape of colour, white becomes an accent.”
Image: David Higgins
Abri Architects
Arney Road Residence
Judges: “So often homes are painted all white, but this home brings a little something extra to the palette. Enhanced with a refined neutral palette of grey, the classic cloudy colours ensure that this home holds its own even on the brightest of summer days. Combined with a range of textured surfaces, the colour palette provides just the right touch of variation. Neutrality highlights this home’s architecture beautifully.”
Image: Katrina Weidner
Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga
Antrim House Upgrade
Judges: “With such a high profile building to decorate, there is always the pressure of expectation. This project has risen to this challenge with much thought put into not only which colours will be used but also where they will be used to best flatter the many stunning architectural details. It leads by example, showcasing how taking the time to respect and celebrate the past through refurbishment projects will ensure our heritage buildings remain a treasured part of our architecture into the future.”
Image: Brayden Mitchell
Chapple Architecture
Palmerston North Crematorium
Judges: “With a serene and dignified approach, this colour palette honours the building’s iconic architecture. The uplifting treatment of the arches lifts the spirits, while the restrained interior colour palette provides a calm and soothing backdrop, allowing the architectural elements to shine. As a building that is used in challenging times, it’s tranquil and reassuring in all the right ways.”
Image: Bernadette Peters Photography
Annabel Berry Creative Co
Whitestone Cheese Diner & Deli
Judges: “This cosy, welcoming space perfectly balances modern aesthetics with oodles of timeless charm. Exuding confidence, this interior blends retro details with contemporary features, paying homage to nostalgic memories. No surface has been overlooked. The painstaking care and attention to detail has ensured the theming continues across every square centimetre from tip to toe, rewarding visitors with a fully immersive experience. The colour use is simply captivating.”
Image: Rachel Wybrow Photography
CTRL Space
Soda
Judges: “Warm and calming colours come together in this project to build an atmosphere of respite and relaxation for its clientele. The thoughtful application of the colour palette means the colour seems to seamlessly and gracefully flow over each and every surface, achieving an inviting aesthetic that carefully balances vibrancy with tranquillity. Playing to the senses, it’s an alluring use of colour that manages to feel effortless through its thoughtful and considered approach.”
Image: Simon Devitt
ArchInt
TR Group – New Commercial Building
Judges: “When working with a corporate colour palette, it takes a certain adeptness to apply those colours to best serve their setting. This project does this brilliantly, using the client’s daring hero hue for powerful accenting supported by a monochromatic base. It’s an immersive branding experience which operates at a commercial level while still bringing out the little kid in all of us. It’s bold, bright and brilliant.”
APG Architects
Endoscopy on Clarence Medical Centre
Judges: “There is a delightful sense of continuity which extends from the public spaces to the private workspaces in this project. Bringing together a beautiful use of textures and variations of paint colours, it exudes an undeniably soothing calmness that avoids the common obstacle of feeling too clinical. The palette is beautifully balanced with timeless tones that feel supportive and nurturing of the space and its users, radiating comfort and care wrapped up in colour.”
Image: Amanda Aitken
MOTAT
Te Puawānanga Science and Technology Centre
Judges: “Wow! This transformational treasure trove of colour palettes draws your eye to each area of the space. The colour is cleverly used to designate zones of activity, to bring human scale to what could have seemed like a cavernous space and offer a collection of themed areas to explore. The palette is extensive yet is so well integrated that the colours both coordinate and contrast. Colour makes this space come alive.”
Image: Richard Ng
The Letter Q Ltd and New Zealand Maritime Museum
Always Song in the Water Exhibition
Judges: “Like ripples of water, this exhibition’s colour palette feels like you’re passing through layers of ocean. Colour is an undeniable hero, immersing each visitor into the exhibition and encouraging them to explore more and linger that little bit longer to truly take in all the curated treasures. Playful and whimsical as it transitions from space to space, the flow of colour is faultless.”
Image: Blink Ltd
Stephanie Cartledge
Tidal Shift
Judges: “With a fusion of colour and community, this work energises its surroundings with a vibrant palette and thoughtful symbolism inspired by the local environment. Boldly painted graphic elements broadcast a universally understandable message and invite passersby to pause, reflect and connect. It’s a striking example of how colour and design can inspire and engage us all.”
Image: Nicole Reed
Peter Beaumont
TEAM Architects Wellington
Judges: “Peter has an innate ability to not only use colour in a practical way that supports the architecture it has been applied to, defines spaces and guides movement intuitively, but also to delight those who interact with and admire his projects from near and far. It’s a delicate balancing act to select colours that are both fitting and thoughtful yet expressive and sensory – and it’s a skill Peter has well mastered.
Image: Nigel King
Peter’s colour selections run the gamut of neutrals through to pastels and brights, with each colour carefully considered to best suit the needs of each project. No two projects are alike.
Peter’s passion for colour is most evident in the education sector, with many schools and students of all ages benefitting from his thoughtful work and delightful and novel colour selections. Peter has also generously shared his knowledge over many years as a lecturer, inspiring those that dream to follow his architectural path.
After a successful career spanning more than four decades, which has seen him win multiple colour awards, Peter has developed a deep understanding of the subtle ways colour benefits and conditions how people interact with and use space. One of his lasting legacies is passing on this prowess, as well as his passion, knowledge, bravery and confidence in colour to countless colleagues and architectural graduates.
This Resene Lifetime Achievement in Colour Award celebrates Peter’s tenacity, skill and flair as an architect who isn’t afraid to experiment with colour.”
Colours and products mentioned in this article...
Testpot colours and products marked as "buy in-store" may not yet be available in our online ColorShop, however, they can be purchased at your local Resene ColorShop or reseller.
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