University of Auckland graduate Lalitpat Chomchoei has been named a finalist in the prestigious 39th annual Dulux Colour Awards, selected from nearly 500 entries across Australasia. She is one of 88 finalists overall and among a dozen from Aotearoa New Zealand.
Lalitpat completed her Bachelor of Architectural Studies at Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland, in 2024. Her architectural practice centres on timber construction and the creation of spaces that promote well-being. In 2022, she was also a finalist in the Timber Design Awards.
Her latest work, A Storehouse of Narratives, was developed as a tribute to the people and culture of Sāmoa. The project features four structures across three locations, each designed to reflect natural elements and Pacific traditions through carefully selected colours.
At the heart of the first site are two key buildings. The Fale Tele, painted in natural green, serves as a space for storytelling and gatherings, blending into tropical surroundings. Alongside it, the Fale Umu, a communal kitchen in deep ocean blue, reflects Sāmoa’s connection to the sea and shared food practices.
The second site, Olo Matamata, features a red tower functioning as a seed bank and lookout. It represents resilience, offering protection for native plant species and acting as a community beacon during extreme weather.
The final structure, Moana, partially floats in the ocean. Painted in a soft white-cream tone, it reflects sunlight and resists overheating. Designed as a symbol of adaptation to climate change, it speaks to the themes of openness, survival, and connection between sea and sky.
“This project is rooted in connection — to land, to ocean, and to people,” said Lalitpat.
“Each colour was chosen to not only support the functionality of the space, but to strengthen its cultural meaning.”
Her work highlights how architecture can address global issues such as climate change and cultural continuity, while amplifying the voices of emerging Pacific designers.
Winners of the Dulux Colour Awards 2025 will be announced in May at the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne.
