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In this Season 2 episode of Between the Walls, Janey and Penny sit down with Lydia from Sage Doors — a family-owned New Zealand business that has been crafting doors for over 40 years.
Known for their consistency, thoughtful design, and support for cabinet makers and designers across the country, Sage Doors brings a mix of heritage, innovation, and genuine care to every project.

From roller doors and flexible panels to laser edging, vinyl wraps, and the brand-new J Handle, this conversation opens up the story behind a company that has quietly shaped how New Zealand homes look, feel, and function.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

The Sage Doors story

• How a small family business grew into a trusted national supplier.
 • What it’s like working alongside siblings — and why the dynamic works.
 • The family values that have shaped the culture for more than four decades.

Supporting makers, designers & real homes

• Why helping small cabinet makers thrive is central to what they do.
 • How their products open up opportunities for makers without large factories or machinery.
 • The impact Sage Doors has had on businesses across Aotearoa.

Innovation, systems & the behind-the-scenes magic

• The journey behind OptiCoat — a three-year development focused on quality and longevity.
 • What actually causes vinyl wrap delamination — and how Sage Doors has solved it.
 • How automation, software, and smart systems keep lead times short and consistent.
 • Why their custom-built ordering system is such a game changer for cabinet makers.

The product range

• Roller doors reimagined — from sculleries to laundries and small-space solutions.
 • Laser edging options across melamine, acrylic, matte and gloss.
 • Veneer alternatives that look stunning and outperform natural timber in durability.
 • Flexible panels for curves and custom profiles for more detailed design.
 • OptiCoat — their coated door range, including the new J Handle.

Choosing the right door

• What homeowners often overlook when choosing materials.
 • Melamine vs veneer vs acrylic — durability, cost, performance and replacement.
 • Why laser-edged doors can be a smarter, budget-friendly alternative to lacquer.
 • The difference a shallow vs deep shaker profile makes in stability and longevity.

Partnership & working well together

• What a great collaboration looks like between designers, cabinet makers and suppliers.
 • Why clear communication and consistency build long-term trust.

Lydia’s advice for homeowners & designers:

Don’t assume you need the most expensive product
Melamine and laser-edged doors can outperform lacquer in durability and consistency.

Think about practicality early
 Durability, cost, colour consistency, and replacement flexibility matter long-term.

Explore veneer alternatives
 They’re often more resilient, less prone to colour variation, and easier to match later.

Stay curious
 Ask questions, explore samples, and understand the “why” behind each material choice.

Connect with Sage Doors:

Website: www.sagedoors.co.nz

 Instagram: @sagedoors

Connect with AD Library:
Website: www.adlibrary.nz

AD Library brings materials, brands, and expert guidance together under one roof — making design and building simple for professionals and anyone planning a project. Visit during Open Days or book an appointment to explore the sample library, co-working space, and industry events.