More Than a Space: A Place to Share, Support, and Grow

When we first opened the doors to ADL, our mission was simple: create a space filled with inspiring resources to help designers, architects, and creatives in the Wanaka region bring their projects to life. But over time, something even more powerful unfolded — ADL became a place of connection, collaboration, and community.

We quickly realised that it wasn’t just about the samples, design education or meeting rooms. It was about the people who walked through the doors. Designers sharing ideas over coffee. New graduates learning from experienced professionals. Independent business owners teaming up on projects. Suppliers connecting directly with the people specifying their products. It became a living, breathing network.

Sharing is at the core of everything we do — whether it’s knowledge, tools, samples, or experience. Our members regularly collaborate, lend resources, and generously exchange ideas to elevate one another’s work.

Support naturally followed. In an industry where many operate solo or in small teams, having a place where you can ask questions, get feedback, or just feel seen makes all the difference. ADL has become a sounding board, a place to vent, a place to learn, and a place to be encouraged.

And because of all this — the connections, the conversations, the generosity — we’ve seen tremendous growth. Not just in the library itself, but in the confidence and momentum of our members. Businesses have been launched here. Lifelong friendships have started here. New ideas have been born, tested, and brought to life right here, in this shared space.

So while we began as a library, we’ve become something far more meaningful. ADL is more than a space. It’s a place to share, support, and grow.