DBJ: Design, Build & Join
DBJ is a highly skilled team of project managers, designers, craftsmen cabinetmakers, installers and office staff who all carry our values of Quality, Integrity and Transparency. We operate a significant cabinetmaking operation, an internal design team, a full in-house polishing facility as well as a team of dedicated installers that allows a keen focus on customer service, quality and attention to detail.
End-to-end excellence
Design
Design excellence is central to the award-winning DBJ process. All projects start with a collaborative client meeting to fully understand the brief, budget and specific requirements. What we learn at this stage will be translated with creativity and precision into refined design plans that reflect our client’s vision.
Build
Realising great design takes implementing cutting-edge CAD and CNC technologies alongside the finest hand-craftsmanship of our build team. Both of these precision disciplines combine in our modern factory in the Wairau Valley on Auckland’s North Shore to create the exquisite cabinetry we are renowned for.
Join
When the finished pieces leave our factory, our installation team accompanies them to make sure they are installed with the same exacting standards that our clients have come to expect. Each project is completed once these standards have been met and our client’s are satisfied that their vision is now a reality.
Who we work for
Architects, Interior Designers,
Project Managers and Builders
DBJ specialises in work for high-calibre design and construction professionals. DBJ works collaboratively with you and your client to ensure plans are accurately translated into reality.
DBJ can provide advice on materials, fittings, or other details as required to ensure the reality of each project is of the highest quality and reflects the vision of each client.
Homeowners, renovators and other Direct Clients
Some clients approach DBJ directly to commission work. We offer an in-house design service for those who do not already have a design professional involved, to see our client’s vision fully realized from design to completion.
We link clients to a range of other suitable design and construction professionals as required, or project manage this process. See our Process for more on how the design and commissioning process works.
Prototypers, finishers and
contract manufacturers
DBJ staff are highly experienced in producing one-off items, and as a result, DBJ is an ideal partner for those undertaking proto-typing.
DBJ can also provide contract manufacturing and polishing services to other manufacturers or project managers.
DBJ has full CAD and CNC capabilities and is a specialist in cost-effective short-run production.
Our Team
Samuel Levene
Owner and Director
Samuel brings a designer’s eye and a maker’s mindset to DBJ. With a background in industrial design and a passion for finely crafted interiors, he leads the business with the same commitment to precision, creativity, and client experience that has defined DBJ for over 30 years.
Dedicated to building on DBJ’s legacy, Samuel’s focus is on evolving craftsmanship through design innovation, technology, and collaboration with New Zealand’s leading architects, interior designers and builders. His approach honours the company’s heritage while looking forward to the next generation of bespoke joinery excellence.
Email: samuel@dbj.co.nz
Daniel Timmer
Head Design and Project Management
Before becoming the Project and Design Manager, Daniel was the lead Cabinet Maker and Second in Charge at DBJ Furniture for ten years. He had been Cabinet Making for fifteen years prior. During his tenure at DBJ Furniture, Daniel has worked on several award-winning projects, including several Tara Iti projects.
Email: dan@dbj.co.nz
Chris Bateman
Co Head Design and Project Management
Before joining DBJ, Chris spent 25 years in the industry. Initially, he worked hands-on, specializing in furniture and later in cabinetry. He represented New Zealand at the 2002 World Skills competition and was a judge, bringing valuable expertise as New Zealand’s National Skills Expert. Additionally, he served on the board for FITECH (now Competenz), advising on apprentice training nationwide. He also has a business management degree. Chris brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the team.
Email: chris.b@dbj.co.nz
Industry Affiliations
What we hear
“DBJ went out of their way to create a complicated bespoke kitchen. Their service was fabulous, any issues that came up were rectified and they were a pleasure to work with.”
Client Testimonial for Bespoke Brass
