Bringing history to life, piece by piece
Discover the journey of our native timber, from its origins in historic New Zealand buildings to becoming a cherished part of your home. At LIVE-ON, we believe in giving beautiful materials a second chance.
The treasure hunt: sourcing our timber
Our unique journey begins with a treasure hunt in the recycling yards around the Manawatū area. We meticulously search for native timber from century-old homes and buildings, each piece carrying a rich history and a story waiting to be retold. It’s a painstaking process, but the thrill of uncovering these hidden gems makes every hour worthwhile.
From raw to refined: preparing the timber
Once the timber arrives at our workshop, the magic truly begins. We carefully select specific pieces for each part of your furniture, whether it's a sturdy table leg or a graceful tabletop. Each piece is then expertly machined, revealing the stunning natural colour and unique grain hidden within. This process allows us to decide how best to honour its natural beauty in its new form.
Why reclaimed? A new life for native timber
Using reclaimed native timber is at the heart of LIVE-ON. New native timber is prohibitively expensive and heavily restricted, making our designs impossible otherwise. Our approach not only gives these precious materials a new life, but also allows you to own an affordable piece of New Zealand's history. It’s a sustainable choice, preventing timber from ending up as firewood or in a landfill, while preserving its natural beauty and strength for generations.
"I hope every customer feels a deep connection to New Zealand's past, proud to own a piece of history that perfectly suits their home."
Matt Davies, Founder of LIVE-ON