Vibrant Taranaki Home Blends Art, Colour, and Modern Design

A unique home in Taranaki, New Zealand, has redefined the relationship between art, colour, and architecture. Built in 2021 on farmland near New Plymouth, the residence of Margaret Milne and Max Dick showcases a vibrant palette and a striking collection of contemporary art. This creative approach stands in contrast to the traditional norm of white walls typically preferred by art collectors.

The house offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the shimmering Tasman Sea. Inside, each room features walls and ceilings painted in different hues, reflecting the natural landscape. Soft tones inspired by clay, sulphur, sandstone, tussock, and lichen create an inviting atmosphere, while an array of contemporary paintings, sculptures, and pottery adds bursts of creative energy.

Embracing Individuality in Design

Margaret Milne, a retired high school English teacher and self-taught interior designer, champions the belief that homes should reflect personal identity rather than merely serve as financial assets. She encourages potential clients to embrace colour and creativity, asserting, “It’s about a house having soul.” Her philosophy emphasizes the importance of creating spaces that are not only functional but also meaningful.

Margaret’s design style incorporates raw materials, including concrete block, Abodo board, and birch plywood, along with copper spouting. Her affinity for the brutalist aesthetic is evident in the unpainted concrete block feature walls that provide a striking contrast to the vibrant interior. The home, designed by local architect Ian Pritchard and constructed by Mark Seator, reflects a commitment to quality materials and thoughtful design.

Despite some disagreement over window sizes, with Max preferring more natural light, Margaret prioritized wall space for their extensive art collection. The couple’s bedroom features a window that frames the Taranaki Maunga like a piece of art in itself, showcasing their ability to blend natural beauty with personal style.

Art as a Way of Life

Throughout their 51-year marriage, Max has come to appreciate the art that surrounds them, despite initially lacking knowledge about the artists and their work. He acknowledges, “Even though I may not have a great skill as to who the artists are, I certainly enjoy being surrounded by nice art and nice furniture.”

Margaret emphasizes the importance of staying within budget when selecting art, advising, “If you fall in love with something and then you find that it’s $40,000, and your budget is $400, what was the point of falling in love with it?” The couple’s dedication to art is evident in their home, where treasures from their travels and handmade items are thoughtfully displayed.

An illustrative anecdote from Margaret highlights the couple’s commitment to their passion for art over practicality. When a friend opted for a painting instead of a refrigerator, they improvised by using a cold safe outside. Margaret quips, “I’d rather have the painting than have food.”

Both Margaret and Max have moved several times throughout their lives, but this is only the second home they have had built. The process was exhilarating for Margaret, who found joy in making decisions about the design and layout, including a separate kitchen to minimize visibility from the dining area.

Max, who enjoys maintaining the farmland they have owned for nearly 40 years, has also contributed to the outdoor space by building raised vegetable beds and planting thousands of native trees to restore the landscape.

The couple’s home is a testament to their shared values of creativity and individuality. As they continue to curate their space, they embody the belief that personal expression and artistic passion can transform a house into a true home.

Margaret’s advice to future homeowners is clear: “Be brave.” In a world where conventional design often reigns, her home stands as a vibrant example of how to embrace colour, art, and personality in everyday life.