Names to Know in 2026

Sugi works with Japanese timber for architectural applications in New Zealand, bringing specialist species such as Japanese cedar into residential and commercial projects. The material is often specified in contemporary architecture for its clean grain, tonal consistency and ability to weather gracefully over time. Used across façades, screens and interior linings, Japanese timber lends itself to designs that favour restraint, rhythm and material clarity, where the timber is allowed to age and express character rather than be concealed or overworked.

Explore Sugi’s timber products here.

Jasmax is an architecture and design practice working across Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia, with a portfolio that spans civic, commercial, education and community projects. Established over six decades ago, the studio brings together architecture, interiors, landscape and urban design to deliver work at a wide range of scales, from large public infrastructure to locally focused spaces. Cultural context and environmental responsibility are consistent threads throughout the practice’s work, informing projects that respond to place, community and long-term use.

Explore Jasmax’ projects here.

Access to water is one of the most frequently repeated actions in kitchens and workplaces. Billi’s systems deliver filtered boiling, chilled, sparkling and still water directly from a single tap, supporting everything from hot drinks and cooking to everyday hydration and entertaining. Used across residential and commercial settings, the systems are specified where water quality and practicality matter, providing reliable access to different water types while remaining visually integrated into the space.

Explore Billi New Zealand’s water systems here.

Polished Concrete Ltd works on polished concrete flooring for commercial and retail projects across New Zealand. Their projects often involve large floor areas and high-traffic environments, where finish consistency and durability are key considerations. Recent work includes retail and exhibition spaces where polished concrete is used as a long-wearing, low-maintenance surface that supports both practical use and architectural expression.

Explore Polished Concrete services here.

Plumbcraft is engaged on projects where plumbing, gas and heating services need to be integrated cleanly within the architecture. Working across a range of building types, their role focuses on aligning service layouts with construction sequencing and spatial constraints. Once installed, the systems are largely unseen, supporting how buildings function day to day.

Explore Plumbcraft’s offering here.