Send us a textIn this episode, Janey chats with Mark from MA Building about the growing movement of passive houses—homes designed for energy efficiency, comfort, and health. They break down what a passive house really is, why these homes feel consistently warm and fresh all year round, and how they reduce energy use dramatically.Mark shares insights on the holistic approach to building, from insulation to ventilation, and the challenges of changing old-school building mindsets. They explore the real health benefits of living in a dry, mold-free, toxin-reduced environment and how passive houses can future-proof our homes and reduce national energy demands.Whether you’re building new or renovating, this episode offers practical tips on where to start, how to think about cost versus long-term value, and why a shift to passive houses is not just smart—it’s essential. In this episode:What makes a passive house different (five key components)How passive houses keep homes between 18–25°C all year roundHealth benefits: dry, mold-resistant, toxin-aware livingCommon misconceptions and resistance from builders and architectsThe energy crisis and why New Zealand needs passive homes nowSmall wins for improving air tightness and insulation on a budgetPassive houses for renovations — it’s not just new buildsWhy fireplaces may no longer make sense in a passive houseReal feedback from families living in passive houses—comfort and energy savingsHow passive house design adapts to different climates and sitesThe importance of energy modelling for smarter home designWhere to find resources and experts to get started Reflections:“Why wouldn’t you want to be in the most comfortable, healthy, warm environment possible?” “We’re always emitting heat—losing it through gaps is just wasted energy.” “Clients who live in passive houses report huge savings and incredible comfort.” “Building differently means thinking five steps ahead.” “This is your opportunity—find the experts and get excited about it.” Want to learn more?Find Mark and the team at MA Building:Website: www.mabuilding.co.nzInstagram: @mabuilding_wanakaCheck the show notes for links, and get in touch with us to keep the conversation going.Between the Walls is hosted by Janey, bringing you fresh perspectives on building, renovating, and the people shaping our homes and spaces.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and share this episode with anyone curious about better living spaces.
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Respect, Instinct & Letting Go of Perfection
Send us a textIn this raw and deeply relatable episode, Janey is joined by Penny and Verity, co-founders of the Architecture & Design Library and your regular Between the Walls co-hosts. They unpack what it means to show up as a designer in a world that still doesn’t fully understand your value. From being dismissed on site to gifting time just to prove your worth, they speak honestly about the emotional load of interior design and the quiet resilience it demands.They dive into perfectionism—when it serves us, when it holds us back—and share how trusting your instinct can guide your creative journey. This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt the pressure to be “ready” or “perfect” before starting something new.🧵 In this episode: • Holding your ground and earning respect on a job site • The emotional and practical cost of being an interior designer • Why undercharging hurts more than just your business • Trusting your instinct to shape your design and business style • Collaborating across disciplines—how respect transforms projects • Redefining perfectionism: when to strive and when to let go🛠 Listener Q&A: One simple budget-friendly way to refresh a space? 🎨 Paint walls 🛋 Move furniture 🧹 Declutter and create calm💬 Reflections:“Respect starts with knowing your worth.” “Design is deeply emotional — you carry people’s homes with you.” “Messiness isn’t failure; sometimes it’s the only way forward.”💌 Have a question for Penny & Verity? Send it on Instagram @betweenthell_II. Practical, random, or curious — your question might feature in a future episode!Between the Walls is hosted by Janey, with Penny & Verity from the Architecture & Design Library — a hub for design professionals to connect, create, and thrive.🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts and share with someone who needs this reminder: You don’t have to be perfect, just willing.
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26:54
Revolutionising Surfaces: The Dekton Experience
Send us a textIn this episode of Between the Walls, we sit down with Nicky from Cosentino to explore Dekton—a game-changing, ultra compact surface transforming the way we build and design. With its unmatched durability, sustainability, and versatility, Dekton is becoming a go-to choice for everything from kitchen countertops to building facades. Nikki shares the story behind the surface, what makes it so unique, and why education around proper installation is crucial. We also take a sneak peek into what’s coming next in Cosentino’s innovation pipeline.Key TakeawaysDekton is made from a blend of 20 natural minerals and is non-porous, UV-resistant, and incredibly durable—making it a true lifetime product.It’s ideal for interior and exterior use, including facades, benchtops, and even outdoor kitchens.Available in New Zealand since 2015, its popularity continues to grow.Installation must be done by trained professionals due to its unique properties.Sustainability is core to Cosentino’s mission—Dekton has a low carbon footprint and is made with natural materials.Minimal maintenance is required—just soap and water does the job.Cosentino is currently developing a hybrid surface, combining the strengths of Dekton and engineered stone.Ongoing education for builders and designers is vital for wider adoption in the industry.Episode Chapters00:00 — Introduction to Dekton and Cosentino 01:49 — The Versatility of Dekton 03:40 — Innovative Applications of Dekton 06:25 — Challenges and Solutions in Installation 09:43 — Sustainability and Maintenance Benefits 12:14 — Future Innovations and New Products
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“Find Your People” — The Realities of Design, Community & Collaboration
Send us a textIn this rich and wonderfully honest episode, Janey is joined again by the founders of the Architecture & Design Library, Penny and Verity. Together, they peel back the layers of what it really means to be an interior designer today — and why creating your own bubble of support and collaboration might be the key to thriving in a high-pressure, high-expectation industry.From tackling tight deadlines to footing the bill when things go wrong (even when it’s not your fault), this episode dives deep into the emotional and practical demands of design. The trio also explores the subtle art of reading clients, embracing personal design styles, and how the AD Library has grown into a place where people feel like they belong.🧵 In this episode:The real job of a designer: emotional load, last-minute changes, and owning mistakesWhy interior designers often carry the project across the finish lineWindow treatments, white kitchens, and the myths of “just picking a paint colour”Creating spaces that reflect personality — not just resale valueThe joy of shared spaces, dream teams, and collaborative workingWhy the AD Library feels like home (and not just another design showroom)A rapid-fire Q&A: go-to paint colours, least favourite trends, and dream design styles🛠 Listener Q&A Highlights:Go-to white paint? Opanoni Half, Man Aspiring, and warm whites with depthSecretly over? Hex tiles and white kitchensDesign styles? Penny = colour, texture, joy. Verity = neutral, refined, alignedBonus: How to choose a colour palette based on someone’s outfit💌 Have a question for Penny or Verity? Send it to us on Instagram @betweenthell_II whether it’s cheeky, curious, or completely off the wall. Your question might feature in a future episode.Between the Walls is hosted by Janey, in collaboration with Penny & Verity of the Architecture & Design Library — a space where design professionals gather, create, and connect. Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and share it with someone who gets it.
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Building High-Performance Homes: The Flexi House Approach
Send us a textThis episode explores Flexi House’s innovative approach to transforming home construction in Aotearoa New Zealand. Andre outlines the company’s mission to deliver high-performance homes efficiently and sustainably, using offsite construction and a decentralised manufacturing model. This conversation delves into collaboration with architects, adaptable home designs for future growth, and a commitment to reducing environmental impact through energy-efficient solutions. Andre also shares insights into the challenges and opportunities within the local construction sector, emphasising the urgent need for quality, warm homes across the country.Key TakeawaysFlexi House supports the wider industry in delivering high-performance homes.Homes are constructed using an offsite, panelised system for fast on-site assembly.The company maintains quality through a focus on architecturally designed builds.Planning is streamlined by applying learnings from previous projects.Nationwide collaboration with architects and builders boosts project efficiency.A decentralised manufacturing approach helps de-risk projects for clients.High-performance homes are especially vital in New Zealand’s colder regions.Designs offer flexibility for future expansion.Sustainability is central—prioritising energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact.Flexi House works closely with councils to navigate building consent processes.Chapters00:00 — Introduction to Flexi House and Its Mission03:01 — Innovative Construction Methods and Systems05:50 — Decentralised Manufacturing and Risk Management09:05 — Flexibility and Future-Proofing in Home Design11:55 — Sustainability and High-Performance Homes15:10 — Collaboration with Architects and Building Consents18:03 — Growth and Future Plans for Flexi House
A podcast by the Architecture + Design LibraryStep 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.
New Zealand