13 March 2025

A Legacy of Craftsmanship & Innovation

For over six decades, Kovacs has quietly shaped the landscape of New Zealand’s furniture industry with a unique blend of European craftsmanship and local ingenuity. Today, with third-generation family members entering the business, they continue to honour the founding legacy by crafting furniture that endures for generations.

The dedicated Kovacs team at their Christchurch-based factory, where generations of craftsmanship and innovation come together to create timeless, handcrafted furniture that’s built to last.

The story of Kovacs Design Furniture is one that’s woven into the fabric of New Zealand’s craftsmanship heritage. Founded in 1959 by Stephen and Maria Kovacs, the business grew from humble beginnings into one of the country’s most respected furniture makers, all built on the couple’s dedication, resilience, and a commitment to creating pieces that would endure. Their journey began in post-war Hungary, where Stephen and Maria, disillusioned by the hardships of Soviet rule, sought a new start. After spending two years in Austria, they qualified as refugees and set sail for New Zealand, arriving in Christchurch with hopes for a brighter future. 

The contrast between war-torn Europe and the relative prosperity of New Zealand was striking. Stephen secured a job at an upholstery firm, while Maria, pregnant with their first child, cycled daily to work, crafting handbags to help support the young family. But Stephen’s ambition stretched far beyond his day job. When told to slow down his pace at work, he turned instead to his garden shed, where he began crafting furniture on weekends. This humble space became the foundation of Kovacs Design Furniture. Before long, demand for Stephen’s hand-crafted pieces surged, prompting him to seek out commercial premises, and by the early 1960s, Kovacs had established itself in a factory on Mowbray Street in Sydenham. “Dad was always thinking ahead,” recalls Johnny Kovacs, now part of the second generation working in the family business. “He introduced new technology and systems that made us more efficient, long before it became common in the industry.”

As trends evolve, Kovacs stays ahead of the curve. The modern rendition of the MAYFAIR (left), now named ELTON (right), draws inspiration from the singer renowned for his iconic style and grace that is both captivating and timeless.

That forward-thinking spirit continues to shape Kovacs today. Johnny and his sister, Hildy, carry on their parents’ legacy with the same hands-on approach. As lead designer, Hildy follows the philosophy instilled by her father. “Dad taught me not just to sketch, but to truly understand the materials and the craftsmanship behind each piece,” she explains. “Design isn’t just about making something beautiful; it’s about understanding how it all fits together.”

In the Christchurch factory, Hildy’s approach to design is deeply hands-on. From the initial sketch of the frame to refining the springing, foaming, and upholstery details, Hildy crafts every element herself, carefully hand-drawing patterns, sewing, and upholstering each prototype. This process ensures that every piece embodies her vision for structural integrity, comfort, and aesthetic excellence. She emphasizes that it’s truly a team effort. Every element of this meticulous process depends on the exceptional skill and dedication of those working alongside her—craftspeople who share her unwavering commitment to quality and artistry. Hildy works closely with a dedicated team of artisans, many of whom have been with the company for decades. 

 

The Muse Chair combines sleek appeal with comfort, featuring a powder-coated tubular steel frame and spherical cushioning that hugs the human form. Its minimalist design nods to mid-century modernism, with purposeful geometry that looks good from every angle. Also shown is the Geo Side Table–crafted from wood, steel and stone, available in a selection of shapes, heights and materials with plenty of options for the table surface.

“We’ve built something really special,” Hildy reflects. “Every piece we make carries that sense of pride and attention to detail.” Through the years, Kovacs has weathered its share of challenges. The Christchurch earthquake of 2011 dealt a heavy blow to their Ferrymead factory, yet within eight weeks, the business was operational again—a testament to their resilience. “We’ve always faced adversity head-on,” says Johnny. “But our commitment to quality and to our customers has been the foundation that keeps us moving forward.”

Sustainability has also been central to the Kovacs philosophy, long before it became a buzzword in the industry. From using sustainably managed Southern Beech timber to incorporating waterbased adhesives, the company has remained dedicated to responsible practices. “It’s about making furniture that’s not just built to last in terms of durability, but also in terms of environmental responsibility,” says Hildy. As low-cost imports flooded the market following the removal of tariffs in the early 2000s, many local furniture makers struggled. Yet, Kovacs seized the opportunity to highlight the value of quality craftsmanship, cementing their reputation as a brand committed to timeless, enduring design. Their strong relationships with trusted suppliers continue to play a vital role in upholding their high standards.

The Simplicity Lounge Chair exudes raw charm with its relaxed, generous proportions, offering a luxurious sense of comfort. Despite its oversized appearance, it occupies a surprisingly compact footprint. Designed for two, this chair is truly a love seat in every sense. Simplicity is shown here in a fabric from the Malabar collection by Warwick Fabrics, in colour Oatmeal, and is able to be custom covered in a huge range of fabrics to suit any decor.

In recent years, Kovacs has welcomed new talent to strengthen the team. Southern Regional Sales Manager Vashti Hammond, with over two decades of interior design experience, has joined the fold. “I’ve specified Kovacs furniture for years,” says Vashti. “Now, being part of the team, I see firsthand the craftsmanship and care that goes into each piece—it’s truly inspiring.”

The appointment of Paul Dryden as General Manager 18 months back has also injected new energy into the company. “Kovacs is built on strong family values and a dedication to quality,” Paul says. “There’s a real opportunity to grow while staying true to the legacy Stephen and Maria created.”

As the company approaches its 65th year, Kovacs stands as a symbol of enduring craftsmanship and thoughtful design. With Hildy’s daughter Sam and son Reuben now involved in the business, the third generation of the Kovacs family is helping to shape the future while remaining deeply rooted in the principles that have guided the company for decades. “We’re not just making furniture,” Hildy says. “We’re creating pieces that people will love for a lifetime—pieces that will stand the test of time. That’s what it’s always been about for us, and that’s what it will always be.”

Visit Kovacs Design Furniture online to view more of their range. 

The SPYDER CHAIR shown in Arioso Print by Lee Jofa in colour Petal/Coin from Warwick Fabrics.

The TANGO ARMCHAIR strikes a bold note for style enthusiasts, offering a unique blend of flair and functionality. With its solid frame, resilient seat foam, and web suspension, it promises lasting comfort. The Tango’s swivel base and customisable upholstery options in leather or fabric allow it to adapt effortlessly to any space, making it as versatile as it is stylish. The Tango armchair is shown here in ANTHEM FABRIC by Casamance in colour Neige Poudree, available from James Dunlop Textiles.

(Above) NEWPORT SETTEE–with its clear-cut European lines, compact footprint and flange detailing offers a snug, stylish and sophisticated approach to modular seating.

The JAGGER SWIVEL CHAIR shown in Lapili fabric in the Evanescence Texture collection by Camengo from Textilia.