making a splash in style

“The clients loved the mid-century style and robust finishes of the house,” Belinda says. “The objective was to seamlessly connect the residence with a newly designed pool area and create entertainment areas that effortlessly blend with the outdoor ambiance.”

The project’s design approach was heavily influenced by iconic black and white photographs taken by photographer David Moore in 1966. These images, featured in the book Living & Partly Living: Housing in Australia, showcased the home amidst towering gum trees, its crisp white composition accentuated by contrasting roof trim. These visual cues informed the new design, as well as the chosen Resene colour palette.

The colour palette was carefully curated to honour the past while embracing the present. Inspired by the timeless photographs, the exterior was repainted in Resene Quarter Thorndon Cream, with the roof’s distinctive edging highlighted in Resene Dynamite, a deep blue tinged red. This bold choice connects the various architectural elements, creating a vibrant visual cohesion.

Belinda collaborated with Resene Colour Expert Natalie Tennant to bring this mid-century vision to life. Natalie’s expertise ensured that existing and new substrates received the appropriate paint finishes, such as Resene Sonyx 101 semi-gloss on external trims and columns, for best protection.

Resene Bokara Grey, a deep charcoal black, was used on external balcony columns and vertical balustrade timber, while a slightly browner shade of Resene Triple Masala was used for all external trims, working to frame and enhance each space and angle.

Resene Lumbersider Low Sheen was used for the vibrant abstract pool mural tinted to Resene Dynamite, Resene Retro, Resene Half Resolution Blue, Resene Dauntless, Resene Spotlight, Resene Adrenalin and Resene Eighth Masala.

A defining feature of the outdoor design is the geometric roof, which Belinda describes as “a simple geometric element that connects the new work both visually and physically.” This roof elegantly ties together different spaces. It functions as a covered walkway, linking the kitchen to the rumpus and cabana, wrapping around the pool edge. The new low-level roof reorients the home toward the pool and eastern courtyard, creating a sense of unity and harmony throughout the space. Showing a commitment to honouring architectural heritage and celebration of history, this transformed residence is not only a home but a timeless work of art.

Poolside artistry

At Veil House, an inner-city Melbourne gem crafted by Wolveridge Architects and McKerlie Builders, the pool area is more than just a space – it's a canvas.

Seeking to bridge the gap between interior and exterior, a captivating mural was envisioned to transform a functional cinder block wall into a mesmerising focal point. This masterpiece, designed by Gnashingteeth, seamlessly intertwines geometric shapes with the abiding presence of a pair of doves that have witnessed the property's journey since its inception. Vibrant bursts of Resene colour echo the interior palette while shades of grey harmoniously ground the composition.

Conceived over sun-drenched days, this artwork beckons guests to unwind by the pool, cocktail in hand – showing that with a little imagination, a simple cinder block wall can be transformed into something modern and artistic.

Mosaic magic

Opting for stylish dark Resene Black on this home’s exterior framed by the trims in Resene Black White allows the bold blue of the mosaic pool tiles to be the hero. Homeowner and designer duo, Carlene and Michael Duffy of Cedar + Suede, have cleverly used smaller pool tiles to create a mosaic-like pattern in the pool bringing an added element of visual interest. This same idea can be borrowed for areas like tiles and pavers, varying the Resene stain and paint colours you use to refresh and protect them.

Want to get your own free copy of future issues of habitat magazine?

Printed copies of habitat highlights are available from late March 2024 at Resene ColorShops and resellers, while stocks last. You can view back issues of habitat magazine online.

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