When Mum handed me the design brief for #theparentalpad, her top priority was clear: storage, storage, storage. In a small space, that was no easy task, but I was determined to maximize every inch without sacrificing style. The result? A minimal yet highly functional space that comfortably holds all the essentials while feeling open and airy.

Even though we reduced the floor space slightly to accommodate a larger wardrobe in the master bedroom, the living area now feels bigger, brighter, and more functional than ever.

We introduced Resene Calico feature walls to add warmth and colour, which helps define the open-plan space. The timber panel wall serves a dual purpose: it hides the linen cupboard and visually elongates the room, adding charm and character. A new ranch slider seamlessly connects the living room to the deck, enhancing the indoor-outdoor flow and flooding the room with natural light.

In this blog, you’ll find a complete before-and-after tour of the living space, packed with images and details of all the products we used. Join us as we delve into the transformation, sharing tips and insights to help you turn a house into a home. Happy renovating!

Resene Paint

Walls in Resene Elderflower in Resene Spacecote Low Sheen

Feature Walls in Resene Calico in Resene Spacecote Low Sheen

The ceiling in Resene Quarter Alabaster painted in Resene Ceiling Paint 

Trims in Resene Quarter Alabaster painted in Resene Lustacryl

Timber Wall Lining stained in Resene Colorwood We Speak Beach in Resene Breathe Easy with a top coat of Resene Aquaclear.

Flooring

Godfrey Hirst Fika 0V Laminate in Genere Oak 950

Custom cut overlocked rug made from Feltex 8th Wonder wool carpet in 0920 Hinuera

Wall Lining

Genia Castlepoint (CP02) in Uncoated Radiata Pine

Storage Solutions

Kaboodle Kitchen Custom cabinets in feta whip v with cabo doorknobs in brushed nickel.

Kaboodle Kitchen 600mm tall pantry cabinet for linen cupboard inserts

Kaboodle Kitchen Hevea timber benchtop for dining table top and bench seat