Our Story
We are Annett and Klaus Todt
Owners of Living Design in Tasman, and founders of LIV+, a continuation of our work through materials, products, and technical solutions.
For over 15 years, Living Design has shaped interiors through architectural joinery, combining German craftsmanship with New Zealand living. LIV+ builds on that foundation, extending our knowledge beyond joinery into curated materials, specialist products, and solution-based design support.
The LIV+ Perspective
Every interior has its own rhythm, which is shaped by the way people move, cook, gather, and live within a space. The success of a project often lies in the details that sit quietly behind the design: how materials meet, how components function, and how ideas are translated into something that can actually be built. LIV+ exists to resolve those details. We work alongside you to bridge European innovation with New Zealand construction. Through carefully curated materials, technical expertise, and design support, we help transform ambitious ideas into practical, high-performing outcomes.
Built on Architectural Joinery
Klaus is one of the few Schreinermeisters located in New Zealand. There is no direct translation for ‘Schreinermeister’ in English, although it loosely conveys as ‘Master Joiner’, which is akin to calling Beethoven a busker. They are masters of the German art of design and can only earn the title after years of training and experience. Considered by some to be closer to architects, and by others as joiners, we prefer the term Architectural Joiner and deliver excellence that goes beyond both disciplines.
That foundation continues to shape LIV+. Every product, system, and material we work with is evaluated through the same lens of craftsmanship, performance, and long-term usability.
Rather than simply supplying products, we focus on how materials are used, how they perform, and how they contribute to the overall integrity of a space.
Curated with Purpose
The materials and products within LIV+ are carefully selected for their craftsmanship, longevity, innovation, and ability to support considered design. Many are highly specialised or made to order, chosen because they offer solutions that standard products cannot. These materials are rarely the easiest option. They are chosen because they allow projects to be realised at a higher level of design and technical resolution.
The Art of True Craftsmanship
While LIV+ primarily focuses on materials and solutions, our Tasman workshop remains an important part of how we work. It allows us to prototype, fabricate specialist components, and support projects where design intent requires a higher level of technical execution.
This connection between design, making, and problem-solving ensures that our recommendations are grounded in real-world build knowledge.
No two projects are approached the same way. Whether supporting a designer with technical detailing, helping a homeowner select materials, or developing a custom solution, our work begins by understanding how a space will be used and experienced.
LIV+ exists to support projects that value considered design, specialist materials, and thoughtful execution. In these projects, the details matter as much as the overall vision.