Colourful past

The new Puke Ariki museum and library complex in New Plymouth is enlivened by a palette of both subtle and vibrant Resene colours

Exterior view of entrance way to Puke Ariki, architecture, building, roof, structure, brown, blue — Exterior view of entrance way to Puke Ariki, showing stairs through garden, feature wall, and roof overhang.

Interior of cafe and library area, with orange table, black, brown

Interior view of museum exhibition with different colours art, exhibition, interior design, tourist attraction, black

Interior view of library complex with muted colours institution, interior design, library, public library, brown, black

Museums and libraries are two public amenities that have changed dramatically over recent years. New designs reflect an increased emphasis on interactive displays and the use of multimedia elements.

In line with this people focus, colour is also playing a greater role, as seen in the new Puke Ariki museum and library complex in New Plymouth. Resene paints feature throughout the complex.

Exterior walls are painted in Resene Sonyx 101, a semi-gloss finish tinted to hues of Resene Domino and Resene Kilamanjaro two shades of grey brown. Brighter colours include Resene Scooter (turquoise blue), Resene Monza (bright red) and Resene Saffron (orange yellow). Neutral shades, such as Resene Tea and Resene Concrete help to balance the vibrant colours.

On the interior, colour helps to define the mood and ambience of different zones, bringing the museum and library spaces to life. Bright shades include Resene Lipstick (pink), Resene Zest (orange), Resene Monza and Scooter, and Resene Wasabi (muted lime green). Resene Diesel, Half Dutch White and Ironside Grey on the ceilings minimise reflection and help focus attention on the exhibits.