This Wānaka kitchen brings local colour and texture inside

At the centre of this new-build home sits a showpiece kitchen that features a curved marble benchtop, framed by a unique painted ceiling feature that echoes not only the island but the natural curve of Lake Wānaka outside.

The ceiling feature, painted in Resene Double Truffle, is just one way architectural and interior designer Priyanka Sareen from Home Factor reflected the outdoor environment into this Central Otago home.

“The palette draws from Lake Wānaka and its surroundings; the softened tones of schist stone, changing colours of the lake, timber, and shifting light,” Priyanka says. “Rather than referencing literal colours, I was inspired by atmosphere and feeling. The hues are intentionally nuanced, allowing the kitchen to feel calm, elevated, and timeless.”

The house was a design-and-build project built for sale, which meant Priyanka’s design brief was entirely self-defined. “I wanted the kitchen to feel unique, almost like a piece of art, yet never overwhelming or ‘in your face’.

“It needed to sit quietly within the architecture while still holding presence. Every element was handpicked to ensure cohesiveness, creativity, and a sense of sculptural refinement. The space also had to feel bright and inviting, balanced with carefully layered lighting to shape different moods throughout the day and evening.”

Without a specific client in mind, the kitchen must-haves were guided by how people live and enjoy different spaces of their home, she adds.

“Functionality, generous preparation space, and intelligent storage were key priorities. I also focused on creating a kitchen that feels social and fluid, connecting naturally with the living areas.”

It was important to Priyanka that the kitchen colour scheme connected not only to the open-plan living areas and the outdoor environment, but also to the rest of the home.

“Continuity across the home was essential. The kitchen sits comfortably within a wider palette, contributing to an overall sense of harmony rather than standing apart.”

Priyanka also loves how this kitchen evolves with light. “The colour scheme works differently depending on natural light, time of day, and the layered lighting settings. You can truly control the atmosphere — from bright and energising to intimate and ambient — which gives the space remarkable versatility.”

The biggest challenge of the kitchen design was keeping the whole look in balance so that it showcased design flair, without tipping into a look that became overly stylised and stark, Priyanka says. “I wanted the space to feel timeless and quietly bold, expressive yet restrained. It’s always a delicate line between minimalism and warmth.”

Her advice on choosing a palette is to think beyond trends and consider how colour behaves in different light. “A well-considered palette should feel dynamic rather than static. Layered lighting is just as important as the colours themselves. It allows you to shift the mood and experience of the space effortlessly.”

IN PRIYANKA’S WORDS

What is your favourite part of this kitchen?
I’m particularly fond of the bar area tucked beneath the stairwell. It was designed for optimal use of space while feeling deliberately separate from the kitchen. Encased in smoke glass, with built-in cabinetry and a wine fridge, it delivers a distinctly upmarket, luxurious experience.

How would you describe your cooking style?
Intuitive, relaxed, and flavour-driven. I enjoy cooking with mostly organic produce and drawing inspiration from cuisines around the world.

Which recipe from this issue of dish would you most like to cook and why?
I would choose Mapo Tofu (page 54) for its bold, comforting and layered flavours rooted in Szechuan cuisine. It has an addictive balance of heat and numbing spice. It’s a great winter warmer.

TOP TIP: Try Resene SpaceCote Flat Kitchen & Bathroom on kitchen ceilings, as it is durable, washable and designed for steamy spaces with added MoulDefender to prevent mould.

For your decorating needs, visit your Resene ColorShop or online ColorShop at shop.resene.co.nz