Put to the test

NZ House & Garden, Resene / Colour expert

Katrina Hobbs is a fan of using Resene testpots to find your perfect paint colour.

As an interior designer and the editor of habitat by Resene Katrina Hobbs has a deep passion for colour.

Why do you love working with Resene colour?

Colour has always been a creative ally of mine. While studying interior design in Sydney I found that I was more attracted to working with colour than to other aspects – discovering a delightful palette to light up a room was far more up my alley than defining where the retaining wall would be. I took an extension course in advanced colour and discovered a love of textiles, driving me to build my fabric design company, Katrina Hobbs Designs.

Do you have any advice on building a colour scheme?

Colour can have such a bold effect on a space. I think that can lead people to be fearful of being too daring in their choices. This is where Resene testpots come in – they are a wonderful and cost-effective innovation. Paint colour is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to change the feeling of a space. Colour is so personal and we all respond to colours in different ways. Trust your gut and paint a decent-sized area with your favourite Resene colour, then see how it feels throughout the day in different lighting. Both natural and artificial light change the depth and impact of your paint colour, so taking the time to see how light affects the colour in your space is the best way to make sure you’re choosing the right colour.

What are your three favourite Resene colours?

It’s so difficult to choose just three favourite colours as I tend to select those that enhance the environment they’re inhabiting – each space offers multiple colour opportunities. However, a firm favourite is Resene Aubergine. There’s so much depth with all the pigments in this colour, it feels like you could dive right in. I’m also a big fan of the French grey tones of Resene Half Grey Chateau, combined with bursts of mustard and magenta, using Resene Liquid Gold and Resene Lipstick, as playful accents.