Nova Interiors

Nova Interiors specialised in supplying contemporary furniture and fittings to the New Zealand market. Among its early partnerships was a distribution agreement with Knoll International, which allowed Nova to produce modernist furniture by designers such as Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, and Eero Saarinen.

During the 1970s, Nova Interiors played a role in the growing adoption of open-plan office layouts in New Zealand, supplying modular systems such as Knoll’s Stephens System. The company’s activities extended beyond retail sales to include office planning and fit-outs, reflecting a shift in workplace design during this period.

Nova Interiors most significant contribution to New Zealand design is likely its collaboration with architect Michael Payne. Payne was selected to develop and design New Zealand's entry in the World Fair in Osaka, Japan called 'Expo 70'. For this project Payne concieved the Geyser Room - an integrated geyser experience in a cavern-like space.

Inside the space visitors enjoyed New Zealand cuisine in an impressive environment entirely fitted out with the best of New Zealand design. The star of the show was a moulded plywood chair designed by Michael Payne and produced by Nova Interiors. The chair was highly successful and today it is included in the permanent collection of leading New Zealand museums.

In 1986, Nova Interiors was restructured and became known as UFL Group (Upholstery Factory Ltd), continuing operations in the contract furniture and interiors sector. Its early activities are noted for having helped bring international modern design to a wider New Zealand audience.