urban earthen treasure

The only natural light to the living area was provided from one floor to ceiling, wall-length window, which had a south-east aspect. This meant that the space did not receive much natural light, and hence the selection of a warmer colour scheme of earthy oranges and soothing yellow best countered the cooler south aspect. Artificial lighting was provided by the existing modern halogen lights.

The colour scheme was selected after considering the purpose of the space – the kitchen area was primarily for preparing and cooking food for a young busy corporate couple; and the adjoining living area was for unwinding after a hard day’s work and entertaining friends. Resene Burnished Orange from the Karen Walker Paints collection was selected for the kitchen ceiling for its rich earthy hue and sophistication – a colour that would be a bold statement for a ceiling, and yet reduced enough to sit back and not dominate the space. The added metallic sparkle gave it a little something extra for keen eyes and would encourage visitors to take a second look.

Furthermore, the psychology of the colour orange in the kitchen supported the purpose which was to stimulate appetite during preparation of hearty meals, and also encourage efficiency in the kitchen so that cooking and cleaning tasks would be completed faster and activities could move on sooner to the relaxing living area.

Resene Cocoon was selected as a supportive warm, on-trend neutral milk-tea colour that complemented the Resene Burnished Orange and brought out the warmth of the space, especially when used on the wall behind the charcoal leather sofa. Its gentle creamy-yellow hue is uplifting and optimistic, which supports the function of the space as a haven to relax and unwind.

The existing colour of the south living area wall was colour matched and touched up in Resene Quarter Spanish White to maintain the sense of space by using a subtly lighter colour than the main living wall. Resene Stonehenge was similar to the grey gum trees, which can be seen out the living room window, and hence became an inspiration colour to harmonise the existing sofa and blinds to complete the colour scheme.

Together the colour combination creates a harmonious scheme that is reminiscent of the Australia landscape of red earth, sand and soothing grey gum trees.

Colours used: Resene Burnished Orange, Resene Cocoon, Resene Quarter Spanish White, Resene Stonehenge (inspiration for soft furnishings).

Products used: Resene Enamacryl Metallic, Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen.

Colour Selection: Simmy Wong
Photographer: Simmy Wong
Artwork in living area from crazyfish.com.au
Project: Resene Total Colour Awards 2010

› Download a PDF of this article