Some projects are simply jobs. Others become journeys that cross the world.
This time the journey led to Auckland, in the heart of New Zealand, where Italian marble contributes to the construction of the Auckland New Zealand Temple. Through the work of International Tiles Agency, natural stone from Italy became part of an architectural project that combines craftsmanship, symbolism, and contemporary design.
The multi-story building, covering approximately 4,300 square meters, incorporates decorative motifs inspired by New Zealand’s natural landscape. Native flora such as the kōwhai flower, pōhutukawa, mānuka and kauri trees, along with the iconic silver fern, appear throughout the design. Blue and green tones referencing the pāua shell and traditional Māori woven patterns further connect the architecture to the cultural identity of the place.
Material choices play a key role in shaping the spatial experience. The floors combine green quartzite reminiscent of pounamu, the revered New Zealand jade, with white Calacatta Caldia marble that evokes Aotearoa; the Māori name for New Zealand, often translated as “the land of the long white cloud.” Art glass elements echo the same natural palette with textured blue, green, yellow, and clear tones, while Tasmanian oak doors and wood finishes add warmth to the interiors.
The temple is surrounded by an 11.4-acre landscape designed to reflect the country’s natural environment. More than 250 trees populate the grounds, including native kōwhai, nīkau palms, and pōhutukawa trees—two of which were carefully transplanted from central Auckland. Seasonal gardens, shrubs, and open lawns complete a setting designed for reflection and harmony.
From Italian marble to New Zealand’s natural and symbolic references, the temple stands as an example of how architecture can connect places, traditions, and materials across continents.
Thank you!