What We're Seeing in New Zealand Commercial Design - Winter 2025
Posted July 24, 2025
From the bustling streets of Christchurch to the vibrant energy of Auckland and the scenic allure of Queenstown, we at Element 17 have been crisscrossing New Zealand, soaking in the pulse of the commercial design industry. Based in Christchurch, our travels have taken us from the tourist haven of Queenstown to the quieter charm of Balclutha, and even out to the beachside suburbs of our home city. Along the way, we’ve connected with clients, consultants, and trades - most memorably at our recent birthday bash, where the room buzzed with shared passion for design and creativity. At the end of the day, it’s all about people: their goals, their desires, and their drive to bring ideas to life.
A Wave of Creative Finishes and Techniques
Across the country, we’re witnessing a surge of innovation in commercial design. Us designers and contractors are pushing boundaries with bold new finishes and techniques that elevate spaces from functional to unforgettable. Think textured wall treatments that play with light and shadow, sustainable materials seamlessly integrated into sleek modern aesthetics, and clever spatial solutions that maximise both form and function.
In Christchurch, we’ve seen local projects embrace these trends, with businesses opting for finishes that tell a story, whether it’s a nod to the region’s rugged landscapes or a fun, urban vibe. In Auckland, the fast-paced commercial scene is leaning into high-tech installations and modular designs that adapt to ever-changing needs. Even in Queenstown, where tourism drives demand, we’re seeing hospitality spaces pushing the limits of visual and audio elements that create memorable guest experiences.
Keeping Clients in the Loop
One of the most exciting shifts we’ve observed is how the industry is keeping clients connected to their projects. From intuitive digital tools to immersive progress updates, designers are finding creative ways to bridge the gap between vision and execution. In Christchurch, we’ve worked with clients who love real-time visualisations that let them “walk through” their spaces before a single wall is built to the point we have invested in cardboard VR googles to drop into our clients laps. Down in Balclutha, we’ve seen trades and consultants collaborate closely with clients through regular, transparent updates, ensuring everyone’s aligned. This focus on connection isn’t just about technology; it’s about building trust and excitement, making clients feel like true partners in the process.
Optimism Tempered by Caution
Up and down the country, there’s a palpable sense of optimism in the air. People are eager to dream big, to create spaces that inspire and endure. In Queenstown, where tourism fuels ambition, we’ve seen projects focused on elevating existing spaces, refining them with visitor-centric designs that enhance experiences. Auckland’s commercial hubs are buzzing with ideas for spaces that reflect the city’s global outlook. Even in smaller towns like Balclutha, there’s a quiet confidence in the potential for growth. But this enthusiasm comes with a cautious undertone.
Cost is a constant concern, with clients and designers alike navigating budgets carefully to ensure quality doesn’t take a backseat. Yet, this constraint is sparking ingenuity. Clever material choices, streamlined processes, and collaborative problem-solving are keeping projects on track and spirits high.
People at the Heart of It All
What stands out most, from our birthday party mingling to site visits across the South Island, is the human element. Whether it’s a client envisioning their dream workspace, a consultant sketching out a bold new concept, or a tradie pouring their skill into the details, everyone shares a common thread: a desire to create something meaningful. In Christchurch, we’ve seen beachside projects embrace a laid-back, community-focused vibe, while Queenstown’s designs lean into the wow-factor for visitors. Everywhere we go, it’s clear that the commercial design industry isn’t just about ‘the fitout’; it’s about crafting spaces where people thrive.
As we at Element 17 continue to explore and collaborate across New Zealand, we’re inspired by the creativity, resilience, and shared passion driving this industry forward. From innovative finishes to client-centred processes, the future of commercial design is bright - and we love being in the thick of it.