The Studio DB story began in Whangārei in 1966. Sixty years later, the business remains family-owned and third-generation-led, a milestone achieved by fewer than 0.5% of New Zealand businesses.
Our journey has been guided by strong values and a commitment to constant evolution. Across three generations of the Brodie family, we've adapted to changing markets, technologies and client needs while remaining true to the principles that shaped our beginnings.
The story begins with Great Grandpa James Brodie and a small joinery shop in Auckland. In the years following World War II, he secured a government contract helping rehabilitate returning soldiers, training up to 300 men at a time in building skills and house construction.
Even then, the purpose extended beyond building. It was about creating opportunity, supporting people and doing more good — a philosophy that would shape the generations that followed.
In 1966, D B Brodie & Co was formally established under David Brodie, James’ son. From the beginning, the business was guided by a few simple principles: precision, sound business practices and clear communication.
Anthony Brodie joined the business under his father, David. Expansion into both residential and commercial construction brought new opportunities, larger projects and valuable lessons along the way.
During this period, the first factory was built — only to discover it had already been outgrown. It was an early reminder that growth often arrives faster than expected.
One of the company’s most pivotal moments came when a well-respected business mentor challenged the team to stop trying to be everything to everyone.
Instead, a conscious decision was made to focus on one area and become exceptional at it. Residential work was left behind, and the business committed fully to commercial spaces.
As the next generation stepped into the business, new energy and ambition followed.
Brendon joined in 2006, beginning on the factory floor and taking on early morning truck runs before sunrise. Like generations before him, the path started by learning the business from the ground up — understanding the work, the people and the commitment required behind the scenes.
This period saw significant growth, but rapid growth brought difficult lessons. As the business expanded, challenges emerged around people, process and delivery. There were moments that tested confidence and raised difficult questions about the future. At one point, the possibility of walking away was seriously considered.
Instead, a different choice was made: step into the discomfort, confront the issues head-on and commit to building something stronger.
Following a leadership seminar in Australia, a bold goal was set: 10x growth in 10 years. Soon after came a breakthrough moment — securing the Veolia contract after competing against eight other businesses. It was a defining project and proof that the business could compete on a different stage.
More importantly, it shifted the mindset. The question was no longer if bigger things were possible, but what came next.
In May 2020, Hayden, Brendon and Jonas Brodie were appointed as Directors, marking a formal transition to third-generation leadership and an important milestone in the company’s family legacy. It represented both continuity and evolution, carrying forward the values established by David and Anthony while bringing fresh ambition and new perspectives for the future.
As the new leadership team took shape, Studio DB expanded into Wellington, extending the business beyond its Northland roots and laying the foundations for its next phase of growth.
Evolution continued in December 2021, when DB Interiors rebranded to Studio DB, reflecting a broader shift from interior design to a fully integrated workplace strategy, design and delivery business.
During this time, our H.U.S.T.L.E. approach was formalised, creating a consistent methodology centred on accountability, alignment, expertise, data-led decision making, listening and proactive risk management—principles that continue to guide every project today.
By 2023, Studio DB had surpassed growth targets and was delivering some of the largest and most complex projects in the company’s history.
The opening of the Christchurch studio expanded Studio DB’s national footprint, enabling the team to support clients across New Zealand while continuing to deliver the integrated service the business had become known for.
Today, Studio DB continues to evolve, helping shape better workplaces across New Zealand while staying true to the values that have guided the business from the beginning.
