Art and Color Transform a New Plymouth Home into a Vibrant Oasis

In a striking blend of art, color, and architecture, Margaret Milne and Max Dick have redefined modern living in their home near New Plymouth, built in 2021. Eschewing the conventional white walls typical for large art collections, the couple has embraced a palette inspired by the surrounding landscape, creating a vibrant atmosphere that reflects their personality and passion for art.

A Home with Character

The couple’s home, situated on farmland overlooking the stunning Tasman Sea, is a testament to their unique design philosophy. Rather than opting for open-plan layouts, which Margaret finds sterile, the house features distinct rooms painted in various soft tones, such as clay, sulphur, sandstone, tussock, and lichen. This thoughtful approach allows each space to feel different, enhancing the experience of moving through the home.

Margaret, a retired high school English teacher and self-taught interior designer, believes that homes should reflect the owner’s identity. She asserts, “It’s about a house having soul. If it looks like a laboratory in its sterility, then is that who you are? Is that what you want to project about yourself?” This philosophy is evident throughout their home, where color and creativity take center stage.

Architecture and Design Choices

Designed by local architect Ian Pritchard, the house combines modern materials such as concrete block, birch ply, and Abodo board, with a few unpainted concrete walls that pay homage to the brutalist aesthetic. Max, who previously worked in property valuation, appreciates the permanence of these materials. He admits that while he would have preferred more windows, Margaret prioritized wall space for their extensive art collection.

Art plays a significant role in the couple’s lives. They have filled their home with contemporary paintings, sculptures, and pottery, creating a dynamic interplay between the interiors and the artworks. Max acknowledges that while he may not have an expert eye for art, he has grown to appreciate it over their 51 years of marriage. He states, “Even though I may not have a great skill as to who the artists are and their particular type of art, I certainly enjoy being surrounded by nice art and nice furniture.”

Margaret emphasizes the importance of purchasing artwork that resonates personally and fits within one’s budget. She recounts a story of a couple who opted for a painting over a refrigerator, demonstrating their commitment to art. “I’d rather have the painting than have food,” she says, highlighting her own passion for creativity.

The couple has moved multiple times and built only two homes, making this project particularly special for Margaret. She confidently navigated the design process, selecting elements like light fittings and room layouts that suit her vision. “I could visualize an entire house with a deep feeling of certainty,” she explains.

Margaret’s attention to detail extends beyond the art. She curated a collection of handmade treasures and travel finds, ensuring that each piece contributes to the overall aesthetic. She prefers items that are well-crafted and not mass-produced, stating, “I like something that is well made, preferably not factory made.”

Lighting also plays a crucial role in the home’s ambiance. Rejecting traditional downlights, which she likens to the “Starship Enterprise,” Margaret has opted for strategically placed fixtures that create inviting spaces for reading and appreciating art.

A Retreat from Urban Life

Max, who enjoys maintaining their farmland, views it as a buffer from their city-oriented lifestyle. He has dedicated time to planting thousands of native trees, gradually restoring the land to its natural state. “It’s a space and it’s a retreat,” he remarks, emphasizing the tranquility their home provides.

Outside, a striking U-shaped sculpture by Steuart Welch adorns the lawn, while the outdoor dining area features a playful mix of black chairs and a single bold yellow one, adding a pop of color to the setting. This design choice delighted visitors during this year’s NZ House & Garden Tours, showcasing the couple’s commitment to creativity and individuality.

Margaret’s design philosophy is encapsulated in her advice: “Be brave.” This mantra resonates throughout their home, where unexpected elements await discovery around every corner. As they continue to cultivate both their living space and their artistic pursuits, the couple exemplifies the joy of making a home that is truly their own.

“A good door is a shut door. Not everything should be revealed. A house doesn’t have to show everything.” – Margaret Milne

As the couple looks to the future, they remain open to new experiences, including the possibility of building another home and exploring different styles. Their journey reflects a deep appreciation for art, design, and the importance of creating a space that feels like home.