| 67 First Windows & Doors Christchurch MANUFACTURING www.podocarpcabinetry.co.nz admin@podocarpcabinetry.co.nz CABINETRY | JOINERY | KITCHENS VANITIES | ROBES | DISPLAY DOORS | WINDOWS | BALUSTRADES T T Karen Phelps Making a design statement The new showroom pod showcases the extensive range of entrance door options available, allowing customers to compare styles, finishes and hardware in situ. Far more than just a way of getting inside, a home’s front door is increasingly becoming a design statement, a reflection of the owners’ personality and a feature that can influence everything from street appeal and security to warmth and energy efficiency. Recognising the growing importance of entrance doors, First Windows & Doors Christchurch has unveiled a dedicated entrance door showroom pod at its premises at 7 Paradyne Place in Wigram, giving homeowners, builders and renovators the opportunity to explore the latest styles, materials and technology. “The entry door is a real feature of the home now,” says company director Simon Carrodus. “Entrance doors have great significance through all cultures, and in feng shui a properly scaled door lets in energy and wealth. We wanted a space where people could see and touch entrance door possibilities for themselves.” Locally owned and operated, the Canterbury business has been serving the region for decades. Simon represents the second generation of ownership, having purchased the company from his father, who purchased it in 1989. As of 2025 industry heavyweights Karen and Chris Nicholson also became shareholders and directors. He says today’s entrance doors offer homeowners significantly more choice than ever before. Rather than generic timber panels, customers can now choose from a wide variety of architectural designs featuring aluminium-clad panels, contemporary negative detailing, glass inserts, traditional styles and bold statement finishes. Many models can also be supplied in dual colours allowing different interior and exterior colour schemes to complement the rest of the home. Performance has also become a major consideration. “Cheap, hollow-core timber panels have given way to aluminium-clad panels with excellent thermal performance,” says Simon. “Modern entrance doors also feature smart locks, four-point locking giving improved air seal, and much higher levels of security.” The new showroom pod showcases the extensive range of entrance door options available, allowing customers to compare styles, finishes and hardware in situ. It complements two existing showroom pods displaying sliding doors, bi-fold doors, sliding windows and other joinery products, giving visitors a comprehensive overview of the company’s capabilities. Technology is also helping customers visualise the finished product before placing an order. First Windows & Doors offers an online virtual entrance door designer that allows users to experiment with different styles, colours, panel configurations and hardware combinations. Once it’s complete, homeowners can save a PDF of the design and send it directly to the company for indicative pricing, making it easier to refine ideas before construction or renovation begins. The business also provides a complete range of residential joinery solutions, including thermally broken aluminium windows, sliding and bi-fold doors, French doors, roof windows, uPVC options and replacement joinery for renovation projects. First Windows & Doors also enjoys a close association with Podocarp Cabinetry Ltd, another business Simon is involved with. The partnership enables clients seeking a bespoke, solid timber entry door panel to streamline the process and be sure of local quality. Both businesses work with homeowners, architects and builders on new homes, additions and refurbishments throughout Canterbury.
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