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Between The Walls
A podcast by the Architecture + Design Library
Step Between the Walls and into the world of design, creativity, and connection. Brought to you by the Architecture + Design Library, this podcast explores the stories, ideas, and collaborations shaping New Zealand’s built environment — and beyond.
Join us as we talk to architects, interior designers, builders, makers, and industry leaders about their processes, challenges, and the spaces that inspire them. Whether you're a seasoned professional or simply design-curious, Between the Walls offers honest conversations, fresh insights, and a look behind the scenes of the creative industries.
Welcome to your new favourite place to listen, learn, and be inspired.
Between The Walls
The AD Library Story — How It All Began
In this holiday replay, we’re bringing back the episode that launched the entire Between the Walls journey — the story behind AD Library. If you’re building or renovating, or simply curious about the spaces where ideas and industry come together, this conversation captures the heart of what AD Library set out to create.
In this episode, Janey sits down with AD Library founders — and your Between the Walls co-hosts — Penny and Verity. Together they share how a single coffee meeting in Wānaka sparked a bold vision for a shared workspace and architectural sample library, why the concept filled such a major gap in the industry, and how community ended up becoming their greatest strength.
From the challenges of explaining something that didn’t exist yet, to the “aha” moments, the design-porn excitement, and the unexpected wins, this is the honest, warm origin story of a space that’s changing how people build in smaller centres across Aotearoa.
What you’ll hear in this episode
- The coffee meeting that planted the seed for AD Library
- How a shared workspace and sample library came together as one idea
- Why collaboration between architects, designers, builders, and suppliers matters
- What makes the sample library a game changer for both professionals and DIY renovators
- The real challenges of launching something totally new
- How community, connection, and shared problem-solving became the heart of the space
- Why touching and seeing real samples reduces overwhelm and speeds up decisions
- The biggest mistakes people make at the beginning of a build
- Why an early independent plan review can save thousands
- Current design trends — colour, texture, sustainability, and the rise of “brown”
- The founders’ vision for expanding AD Library across the country
- The one piece of advice Penny and Verity want every homeowner to hear
Connect with AD Library
Website: adlibrary.co.nz
Instagram: @adlibrary.nz
Are you feeling overwhelmed by all the decisions you need to make for your new build or renovation and have no idea where to start. The Architecture + Design Library is your answer. A one stop 'shop' for finding designers and trades, sourcing materials and products and gaining education on those items so you know you are making the right decisions.