Hues of the harbour: Transforming a bathroom with art

21 May 2024

This historical gem, converted into delightful accommodation, boasts a spa-adorned bathroom with a twist – a dreamy window with a view, all creatively created with captivating Resene colours.  

In the heart of Akaroa, among the relics of French colonial influence, is The Old Shipping Office – a building that never fails to captivate tourists with its timber construction mimicking traditional stone facades, and now, another unique feature in the bathroom. 

Frankie Bakker, the artist behind this dreamy window, wanted to create a scene that would allow guests to lie in the spa bath and gaze at a romantic view of Akaroa Harbour. She aimed to evoke a dreamy stillness, a moment of peace where one could unwind and let their thoughts drift as if gazing out of an actual window. This unique touch was intended to convey the rich history and picturesque beauty of Akaroa, making the bathroom a mesmerising retreat. 

The dreamy view in this mural is painted with Resene Black,Resene Wham, ResenePaua, ReseneOcean Waves, Resene Foam, Resene Gold, Resene Oak and ReseneCedar. 

Inspired by the magical hues of the sunset over Akaroa Harbour, Frankie chose a palette that would enhance this romantic ambiance. She focused on darker shades and highlights, using Resene paints in blues, greens, purples and pinks.  

A significant element of her colour scheme was the use of Resene Paua, a nod to the local Pāua shells that line Akaroa's shores and create the famous blue pearls. To balance the deep colours, she incorporated a foam white with a blue tint, adding brightness and contrast to the mural. 

One of the project's most distinctive challenges was the careful measurement and angling of the painted windows. Frankie was particular about depicting the windows at various degrees of openness, avoiding the clichéd beach scene, and instead adding a dynamic, realistic touch. This attention to detail contributes to the overall effect, making the painted window a standout feature of this bathroom. 

The view invites guests to unwind as they look out at the vibrant sunset of Akaroa harbour, painted in ReseneBlack, Resene Wham, ResenePaua, Resene Ocean Waves, Resene Foam, Resene Gold, Resene Oak and Resene Cedar. 

Interestingly, Frankie's connection to The Old Shipping Office runs deeper than her artistic endeavour. She had previously worked as a cleaning lady at The Wharf, which included cleaning The Old Shipping Office. When the opportunity arose to paint the bathroom mural, Frankie was thrilled. Collaborating with the building's owners, Glenn and Gayle, she brought their design ideas to life. Ironically, the closure of The Wharf and her subsequent redundancy as a cleaner gave her the time and focus needed to complete her masterpiece. 

Living temporarily in The Old Shipping Office, Frankie immersed herself in her work. Each morning, she awoke in the same bed she once meticulously made as a cleaner, and continued painting, taking breaks to stroll along the esplanade to the lighthouse for inspiration. 

Frankie's painted window is more than just a beautiful piece of art. It shows her dedication, creativity and connection to Akaroa's heritage. The mural not only transforms the otherwise enclosed space but also invites guests to experience a moment of tranquillity and romance, making it a unique and unforgettable part of their stay. 

One more feature to note, is the original shipping window on the exterior facing church street for the passersby. “This installation steps a keyhole piece and a sky piece,” Frankie says. “The stepping provokes curiosity as different angels from the eyes show different details on the birds and their beautiful feast of stolen fish and chips – a public hidden gem of curiosity, perfectly at children's height!” See the video below!

Read more about this project here, and see more of Frankie’s work online.  

To stay at The Old Shipping Office yourself, you can book online here.  

Published: 21 May 2024