Set the scene

If you've ever poured over paint charts for hours on end or amassed a pile of test pots in the garage, you will know just how difficult it can be to choose the right paint colour.

It doesn't have to be this way, however. Resene has already done the hard work for you and made colour selection a whole lot easier, thanks to the Resene Total Colour System.

Resene has formulated colour charts and a fandeck of swatches that tell you what works with what. The Range fandeck,for example, is published annually and features more than 150 different shades that reflect local and international trends.

For each colour on the fandeck, there are three suggestions of complementary shades that will work well together.

Looking at completed projects is another way to gather ideas. The house featured here was painted in Resene colours, chosen to complement the Spanish-style architecture. Resene Tea was specified for walls in the entrance and living areas. Described as a muddy, neutral white, Resene Tea is an ideal shade to use when pure white seems too harsh.

This was complemented in the kitchen by Resene Coffee Bean, which features on a hood designed as a mantle above the large cooker.

Elsewhere in the house there are bright colours, including Resene Persian Plum in a guest room. A metallic paint, Resene Pure Pewter, introduces a touch of glamour to the powder room.

Resene's website offers advice on different ways to use colour. In addition, it provides case studies that illustrate how homeowners and designers have used colour successfully.

Resene marketing manager Karen Warman says the Resene Inspiration Gallery showcases everything from bedrooms to exteriors and is an ideal way to get decorating ideas.

Another easy way to choose colours is by using the Resene EzyPaint virtual painting software. This program gives you the opportunity to preview and change colour schemes on your computer. The software is free to download from the Resene website, or you can purchase or borrow a copy on CD from your local Resene ColorShop.

As different rooms in your home may require different paint treatments, Resene has a paint type to suit every application. Recent releases include Resene Zylone Spacecote, a low-sheen, low-odour, waterborne enamel, which is well suited to kitchens, bathrooms and broadwall areas.

"This paint provides a durable, washable enamel-like finish," says Warman. "In critical light areas, its reduced side sheen will minimise the appearance of surface imperfections. Combined with a skim coating of Resene Broadwall Surface Prep, a great finish is easy to achieve."

The Resene website also features EzySpec software, which can help you choose the best paint type for your project, whether interior or exterior.

For further information, visit a Resene ColorShop or phone 0800 Resene (737 363). Websites: www.resene.co.nz or www.Trendsideas.com.

Story by: Trendsideas