b'feature housemiddle. They had a month to shift the cottage (fondly dubbed theIn the recent renovations, the only colour change was for the partition two-bed shed) to the rear of the section, make it habitable and movewall between the dining and living areas. Once different colours on in. They then had the luxury of timetime to see how the sectioneach side, it is now a uniform Resene Tana. was during all seasons, time to plan and refine the new house, andA window seat was built into the living room, a sofa recovered and time to build it exactly as they wanted. Once the house was designedthe older white furniture replaced with pieces in rich walnut-toned in collaboration with architectural draughtsman Grant McIntyre, theytimber. New cushions and artworks gave the finishing touches. then mulled over and perfected those plans for six months. We put a huge amount of thought into it. The actual building phase was aWhile the work could be seen more as a refinement than a full-on fantastic experience. It went without a hitch. Living on site meant werenovation, the decision to make changes and devise a plan was critical could see it every day. for Nicole. While many of us may tinker with our interiors, adding a The main living areas of the house are on the second floor to takecushion here or a vase there, she believes that by critiquing the entire advantage of harbour views, with a pool and garden on the northernhouse and creating a plan of changes to achieve over a certain time side for sun. We wanted a spacious house but not one with bigframe, this gives in a more cohesive result. soullessrooms.Theinteriorsneededtobecalm.WewerebothIn my head I had a checklist of things to achieve over a period of travelling a lot so wanted to come home and relax. time, something I could work progressively towards. Its the same with Withtravelandabuildingprojecttakinguphertime,Nicoleour clients. We give them a plan and they work away at it depending commissioned Trinity Interior Design to interpret her vision for theon the time and budget available.interiors. She wanted colour, but subtle colour which flew in the faceIf you have that overview, if you then find things along the way that of the then fashion for all-white walls. I wanted soft natural colours,you like but which arent on the plan, its much easier to slot them then used white in the furniture and accessories. I also think black isin. It means you dont have to second guess yourself or do things in underrated as an accent colour. It gives a room punch. isolation. Its a method thats certainly worked for Nicole. LeftNicole McKenzies eclectic style supports her desire for a casual, beachy home.BelowResene Zen is a restful green for the guest bedroom. ReseneZenBelow leftShelves against the Resene Tana living room wall. ReseneHalf Tea19'