I love hearing your feedback and while I’m unable to answer all of your questions, I’ve picked out some that are frequently asked. 

There are so many different shades of white and neutral paints out there. How do I choose the right one? 

The key is in selecting the shade that works best for you and your surroundings. Generally speaking, whites are either cool or warm, so this should be your starting point. Cool whites have a blue or black base and work well for rooms that get a lot of sun because they tend to neutralise bright light. Two of my favourite cool whites are Resene Alabaster and Black White. For rooms that receive little in the way of natural light, choose warm whites that have yellow brown or red undertones, to make the space feel warmer. Check out Resene’s Quarter Thorndon Cream or Villa White.

Also take into consideration the age of your home. Traditional homes suit biscuit colours that are similar to natural stone hues. Avoid heavy yellow or pink bases which will give a dated feel and instead go for brown and red undertones which give a more contemporary result. Resene Double Parchment is a good example. Add contrast by highlighting detailing around the ceilings and architraves in older homes with a bright shade. Cool whites have a crispness that suits a home with modern lines and minimal schemes. Greys are now very much part of the neutral paint palette, with mid-toned greys being a great choice for creating a soft backdrop that works well in creating a look that is both casual and relaxed or chic and elegant. Try Resene Sea Fog and Double Ash. 

Where do you buy your picture frames from? 

For reasonably-priced posters and prints I usually use Factory Frames. Because I like my frames to be narrow I get them made to order, however they do have a selection to purchase ‘off the shelf’ and they cut matts in store while you wait. I also have several IKEA Ribba Frames which you can get from a few Auckland online and retail stores such as Akia and Shut The Front Door. For more expensive artworks I recommend talking to a professional framer. 

We are currently renovating our kitchen and I would love to use marble for the benchtop but it is out of our price range. Are there any cheaper alternatives? 

A natural stone that certainly looks exquisite, marble is however porous, meaning it can stain more easily than other surfaces. It is also an expensive option. For a practical, budget-friendly alternative I recommend using an engineered stone with a marble look. We chose Silestone in Lagoon for our new kitchen, which has a soft vein running through it. Not only does it look beautiful, it is incredibly hard-wearing and heat resistant. They have also since introduced Silestone Lyra which has a bolder marble look. 

I really love the Scandi look in interiors, but I’m worried about it being too stark. How do I add warmth? What would you recommend? 

Because the overall palette is neutral and the style understated, some may find the Scandi look too stark or minimal. I however believe it can be done in a way that brings life, warmth and personality to your home. Mastering this look comes down to the clever layering of natural materials and textural elements. Choose homewares that are made from wood, leather, concrete or marble, all of which go hand in hand with a monochrome or neutral palette. Add further texture and contrast with a metallic accent such as brass or copper. Create a warm and relaxed feel with tactile fabrics such as natural linen and woolen throws. Sheepskins inject both warmth and texture and can be used either as a rug or a throw. Great for layering, there are many different varieties to choose from including the more exotic long-haired Icelandic sheepskins and Reindeer hides. Candles also go a long way in creating a cosy ambiance when placed throughout the home on the mantel, coffee table or side tables. Scented candles provide further warmth and a little bit of luxury, thanks to their beautiful aromas. Lastly, bring some nature indoors with natural foliage and plants. 

Styling and photography by Michelle Halford for TDC

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This article is intended as a general discussion only. BNZ recommends the recipient get independent advice. The views expressed are the writer’s own and do not necessarily represent those of BNZ or its related entities.