Grand lady

Whangaroa Harbour, once the largest shipbuilding yard in New Zealand, is now a base for big game fishing and the perfect location for Totara Country Lodge on The Cutting Road off Totara North Road. A comfortable drive from Auckland and with the lure of big fish reeling in the visitors, one wonders whether the fish are the catch or the humans.

For more than 100 years the historic kauri homestead has faithfully served as home for one family before being sold and lovingly refurbished. Reflecting a deep respect for the history etched into every element of the home, the original pitsawn timber home has retained its character and detail while offering luxurious accommodation for today's comfort seeking clientele.

Bored of beige and off-white, the colour palette was selected to allow the house to glow with colour and reflect the earthiness of the property and the vitality of the sea. The predominantly white wood panelling in the dining room is partnered with the depth and nurturing quality of Resene Oilskin (complex brown) tinted into Resene SpaceCote Low Sheen. With the lights dimmed and the fire blazing this room is a favourite among guests.

Resene Aphrodisiac (soft red) graces the bedrooms and wraps around the guests to provide a cosy ambience while they rest, accessorised with crisp white linen and woodwork. Resene Bluegrass (mid blue green) provides a bridge between the two colours adding light to the lengthy hallway.

Dark colour was avoided on the exterior due to the broad and low exterior shape and the desire to blend with nature rather than dominate it. Varying strengths of Resene Parchment (light beige neutral) feature, with full Resene Parchment on the roof, triple strength on the walls and quarter strength on trim and joinery to draw attention to the fine architectural detailing. Resene Rambler on the verandah floor grounds the exterior walkways.

A home turned lodge steeped in history, this grand old lady is a painted beauty.

Architect: Michael Brewerton, Accento Architecture
Designer and Proprietor: Beth Mackay, Totara Country Lodge
Painting Contractor: Tony King
Resene: Darren Knight, Project Services Representative
From the Resene News – issue 1/2007

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