Judging panel

Sylvia Sandford

Designer, paint finisher, writer, tutor, public speaker, visual merchandiser, decorator and cook captures the 30 year career of Sylvia Sandford. Project inspired with an eclectic career, Sylvia pursues her passion for house and home throughout New Zealand. Sylvia has a long history with Resene and was the Resene Colour Ambassador for many years encouraging decorators to embrace colour in their projects.

John Walsh

John Walsh is a full time writer of architectural books capturing New Zealand's architecture for all to enjoy. Previously he was the Communications Manager of the New Zealand Institute of Architects and managing editor of a stable of design magazines which included Architecture NZ, Urbis and Landscape Architecture NZ. He is the author of multiple books on New Zealand residential architecture. John has previously judged the Resene Total Colour Awards and was part of the inaugural Resene Total Colour Awards judging panel.

Laura Lynn Johnston

Laura Lynn Johnston has always had a love of colour and design. Following her design studies, she was involved in a range of roles, including writing on design to encourage and inspire others to embrace colour and design into their projects. Laura Lynn joined habitat as editor managing design and colour content across all channels. More recently, Laura Lynn has become the founding editor of BlackWhite magazine and its associated media and social channels.

Thanks to Sharon for judging awards 2020 and earlier.

Sharon Newey

Sharon Newey is the Associate Editor of New Zealand House & Garden magazie, and the former editor of Resene magazine, Habitat, and its associated website, Habitat by Resene, a role she held for ten years. She was the founding editor of Your Home & Garden magazine, editor of NZ Gardener magazine and the managing editor of the Where to Live in Auckland book series. During the years, she has written countless articles on interiors, colour and design.