Bruce and Krystal contacted me after reading one of my articles about colour, published in the Wairarapa Times-Age. They lived in one of the original homesteads in Masterton and had subdivided the section to make way for a new home build. It isn’t very often I get to work on a new build in an established section as many of the new builds I work on are newly subdivided housing developments.
Their brief to me was ‘fresh, light, outdoors, and colours of a seascape’. The design of the building and the established grounds resonated very well with the brief. When not practicing Law, Bruce is a keen surfer and gardener, while Krystal walks, meditates and practices Yoga for her relaxation. They both had artwork that was to be displayed in their new home.
The home had four key areas, the living space with a high cathedral ceiling, guest wing, main bedroom with ensuite, and garaging, storage and laundry. Natural timber floors, ceramic tiles and wool carpet were the grounding elements teamed with light coloured walls and block colours in the living area. Timber also featured in the mantle and the the breakfast bar. Rooms were light and fresh, opening directly onto richly stained decks. This gave the home a feel of living in the garden. Natural fibres were chosen for the window treatments to keep the natural/eco-friendly feel of the build.
The exterior was clad in a plasterboard and required a colour that would sit comfortably in the established garden. I chose a lush deep yellow/green for the plaster work which, from a distance, looked like a lush moss finish. The timber entrance door completed the picture.
Existing furniture was recovered and sat comfortably next to new contemporary furniture. This was a great project to work on and Bruce and Krystal were most appreciative of the work we did together.
It was lovely to open my emails one morning and find this message from Krystal…
Hi Terry
I went to the house today to see the paintwork. All 3 colours are in and I just want you to know I loved them all. You and Bruce have really nailed it! I feel I am in the Greek Islands inside one of those beautiful white-washed walled villas on the hills (all that is missing is the blue ocean). Or on a wintry day I will feel like I am in the summer house out in the garden. Anyway thank you – you have really helped Bruce achieve his vision.
Kindest regards
Krystal
