Colour is the most personal part of any paint project — and the part people stress about most. The good news: a few simple principles take most of the guesswork out of it.
Start with what you can’t change
Work around the fixed elements first — your roof colour, brick or stone, flooring, bench tops and any joinery you’re keeping. Choosing wall colours that complement these is far easier than fighting them.
Test in your own light
- Buy sample pots and paint large patches, not tiny swatches.
- Look at them morning, midday and evening — light changes everything.
- Check colours on different walls, as orientation affects how they read.
- Live with your shortlist for a few days before deciding.
Exterior colours and the New Zealand light
Our bright, clear light tends to make colours read lighter and more intense outdoors than on a swatch. Mid-tones and classic heritage palettes tend to wear well on Auckland homes. For exteriors, also consider heat: very dark colours absorb more heat, which some cladding manufacturers advise against.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you help me choose colours?
Absolutely. Steve can talk through options, suggest schemes that suit your home and arrange colour consultations through Resene or Dulux where helpful.
Need a hand with your project?
Happy to tackle some of it yourself? Great — but for anything you’d rather leave to a professional, Steve Lunjevich is a Kiwi and a trade-qualified painter with 20+ years’ experience. Call or email for honest advice or a free, no-obligation quote.
