- Product Range
Five formats, one interlocking system.
Every unit is handcrafted from genuine New Zealand schist and engineered for accuracy, durability and consistent structural performance — for walls, fences, columns and architectural features.
Single-Sided Schist Block
Wall cladding & retaining, one face visible. Lightweight ICF core, Arkfoam accredited — forms a monolithic structural wall when reinforced and filled.
Double-Sided Schist Block
Free-standing walls & entranceways, visible both sides. Patented 3-5-4 interlock. Walls over 1.5m require professional engineering.
Straight Panels
500mm modular panel lengths, factory-aligned for consistent coursing across flush wall sections.
Column Kits
500mm & 700mm square formats, 400mm high units, 45° mitred return. Integrates lighting, mailbox inserts, conduits and capstones.
Panel & Fence Systems
Factory-aligned panels for larger-scale fencing and boundary walls. Consistent coursing, fast installation, suited to residential and commercial sites — with lighting, mailbox and capstone integration available.
- Why Schist by Design
Built for the trade, engineered to the standard.
A system developed for performance, compliance and clean, fast installation on site.
Patented 4-5-4 pattern
Seamless coursing, no visible vertical joints.
No stonemason required
Any competent builder can lay the system.
NZS 3604 compliant
Fully compliant, fully documented system.
Performance tested
Verified for adhesion, shear & compressive strength.
Lightweight ICF core
Reduces weight, holds consistent strength.
Standard wall ties
400mm vertical / 600mm horizontal spacing.
Genuine NZ schist
Waitaha or comparable schist, always.
Interlocking accuracy
Uniform coursing, straightforward handling.
Patented layout pattern
- About the System
Real stone, made simple.
Schist by Design is an engineered modular stone cladding and block system developed in New Zealand. Each unit is crafted from genuine Waitaha or comparable schist, bonded to a lightweight structural core to reduce weight while maintaining consistent strength.
Designed for efficient installation, the system can be laid by any competent builder without the need for a specialist stonemason — fully compliant, time-efficient and visually authentic.
4-5-4
Layout pattern
NZS 3604
Compliant
400×600
mm tie spacing
Tested
Adhesion / shear / compressive
- Installation Guide
Step by step, on site.
The core build sequence for blocks, panels and columns — from footings to final quality check.
Site Preparation
Level, plumb, fully cured footings. Rods spaced ≤1200mm apart.
Set-Out
Dry-lay blocks from a corner needing no cutting.
SBD 354 Adhesive Mix
50:50 sand to SBD 354, 30-minute work time.
First Course
4mm bed, perfectly level — the critical course.
4-5-4 Coursing
Lay each course as you go, trim with a grinder if needed.
Reinforcing Rods
80mm holes, aligned course over course.
Corners & Returns
Pre-formed units, interlocked firmly.
Curing & Protection
48 hours minimum, shielded from rain and frost.
Final Quality Check
Plumb, level, line — checked by eye.
- Resources
Everything to specify with confidence.
Tools, technical detail, and documentation for your build.
Level
For a perfectly plumb first course
String Line
Accurate coursing, end to end
Stonemason's Pick
Trimming and light finishing
Mixer / Drill Paddle
Smooth, butter-like SBD 354 mix
Trowels & Buckets
Small, large, and kept spotless
Hose & Water Blaster
Clean-up, finishing and curing
- frequently asked questions
Answers before you order.
Are your systems NZ Building Code compliant?
Yes. Our architectural stone systems are designed to align with relevant New Zealand Building Code requirements for exterior cladding and façade applications. We provide supporting technical documentation and installation guidelines to assist architects, builders, and consent processes where required.
Have questions about our architectural stone systems?
Our team is here to help. Whether you’re planning a residential, commercial, or large-scale architectural project, we can provide expert guidance on product selection, specifications, installation requirements, and design options.
What types of finishes and colours are available?
We offer a wide range of textures, finishes, and colour options to suit different architectural styles and project requirements. From contemporary smooth finishes to natural stone-inspired textures, our systems can be tailored to achieve the desired aesthetic while maintaining durability and performance.
Can your systems help reduce installation time?
Yes. Our systems are engineered for efficient installation, helping reduce on-site labour requirements and project timelines compared to traditional masonry construction. The lightweight design and streamlined installation process can improve overall project efficiency without compromising quality.
Do you provide technical specifications and CAD details?
Get In touch
Get in touch with our team to explore tailored stone systems for residential.
- Architect / designer
Let’s discuss your next architectural stone project
Please fill out the form below and provide details about your project. Our team will review your requirements.
Phone
022 064 584 | 022 435 1550
Info@schistbydesign.co.nz