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In Profile:
Trenzseater

In Profile:

Trenzseater

Shortlisted: Interior Design Scheme - Global Award

The International Design & Architecture Awards 2026

Trenzseater

Name: Ben Lewis
Company Name: TRENZSEATER
Position Within Company: GENERAL MANAGER – LEAD INTERIOR DESIGNER
Website: www.trenzseater.com

Tell us a little about your background in design:
I was inspired by my grandfather’s furniture business growing up, his drive and passion for manufacturing some of the finest furniture in New Zealand gave me from an early age a grounding and foundation in an industry which I fell in love with. My first sofa I designed and was successful for production was when I was 14, which was the start of many more as I design all our furniture
designs for TRENZSEATER. I had a vision to start a high-end furniture and interior design business in New Zealand which I did at the age of 20, to cater for a market where clients wanted something personalised, different to what anyone else had. TRENZSEATER was established with my brother Hamish, and together we have grown the business into one of New Zealand’s most prominent furniture, interior design stores. Our Interior Design Service grew purely through industry experience, with my interior design work now being highly regarded and recognised on an international level. TRENZSEATER has 3 stores throughout New Zealand which house all the products we manufacture to order in New Zealand along with all our beautiful International brands we distribute from Europe. These stores are a true showcase to our interior design expertise, demonstrating our unique quality of product and manner in which we present it. Our Interior Design Service is also an influential part of business which has grown over the many years into a full service that we offer to clients throughout New Zealand.

How would you describe your personal design style?:
I would best describe my style as timeless & classic, I like clean simple lines, interesting layers in projects that are visually stunning, I have a passion for design that it balanced, symetrical and has a grand sense of scale.

Alot of my projects that I did 10 years ago you would think they were just recently completed as the style is consistent but it stands the test of time which I think is what alot of clients appreciate.

I do appreciate every project is different and each client unique, it is absolutely vital to listen to the brief and make sure your style is executed according to the brief.

Where does your design inspiration come from?:
I am continuously inspired each day by design, through architecture, interior design and classic furniture design where the classic detailing provided a signature style. I also enjoy and find inspiration in fashion, art and antiques. Natural materials inspire me for their unique, classic qualities, marbles, stone and the character you get from solid timbers.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?:
I believe design is moving towards interiors which are eloquently layered providing layers of interest and personality to a design that make spaces a pleasure to be in and enjoyed at the same time. We also see in design the use of matt and brushed metal finishes, brass in door hardware and light fixtures along with the use of a lot of natural marbles and stones.

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be?:
I think the best advice would be that the skys the limit, don’t restrict your design process to a particular style, always listen to the client and deliver on their brief. Your talent will always show through your personality and uniqueness which is why the client choose you.

Trenzseater
Trenzseater

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?:
They are very important to be able to provide a platform where interior designers from around the world can submit their work for the design world to see and admire. I think also it inspires younger designers which is great for future growth.

What projects are you currently working on?:
Currently working on a luxury lodge in a very prominent New Zealand location, along with several high end residential projects throughout the country.

What was your favourite project to work on and why?:
Most recently was a project a few years ago where the client was open to pushing the boundaries a little bit, very eclectic and enjoyed the layers that make an extraordinary design. The result was spectacular, looked amazing on so many levels and was visually stunning. Really enjoyed every aspect of the project and client engagment.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing?
FURNITURE
LIGHTING
FLOORING
CAD TECHNICIAN

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months? :
To continue to deliver exceptional interior design work throughout New Zealand.

Interior Designer: Ben Lewis

Photography: Ben Parry

Trenzseater has been shortlisted for Interior Design Scheme – Global Award in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2026.

Trenzseater
Trenzseater

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