Kahui St Davids

We are honoured to share this project that brings together a living memorial, and is now a vital hub of music making, inspiration and social connection.

St David’s was built as the Soldiers’ Memorial Church and its foundation stone was laid on Anzac Day 1927. However, it faced demolition in 2014 due to earthquake regulations. We spoke to Paul Baragwanath, whose family had been involved in running the church across two generations who spearheaded to save this heritage building.

What led you to choose the red carpet for the Great Hall of Kāhui St David’s? 

Paul: A red carpet presents a warm welcome, and also creates a sense of celebration which is what Kāhui St David’s is all about. Everyone gets to walk on the red carpet! It is also the colour of the Kingdom of Heaven in the soaring lead-light windows above. 

What comes to mind when choosing the material, Castor Plus carpet for the Great hall? 

Paul: It’s a carpet of the highest quality: soft, fine, dense. It’s natural wool, which has authenticity. Environmentally it’s also better than synthetic. It reminds people that they are in a very special place. St David’s the building is as living memorial to World War One. It is fitting to honour the soldiers, aviators, sailors and nurses with one of the finest carpets in the world.

Have you noticed any shift in the space, since you change the carpet? 

Paul: Yes, the energy lifted immediately. There is now a “wow” experience.  It’s rare, uplifting and beautiful.

How would you describe the feeling and energy of the building?

Paul: The building is grand, old world, built of “permanent materials” – Oamaru stone, Kamo brick, and lots of lead-lights! It feels a bit like walking into a (very grand) home from time gone by. The Great Hall is filled with light, and despite its scale, it feels intimate.  This intimate quality is remarkable, and rare in modern architecture.

What are some important elements and colours for preserving a heritage building? 

Paul: The building has a lot of character, so it’s a matter of going with it, and learning from it.  Old buildings have much wisdom – listen, and take a little time.