CHURCH OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD
TEKAPO
The Church of the Good Shepherd in Lake Tekapo, set on the shores of turquoise Lake Tekapo with the Southern Alps as a backdrop, is one of New Zealand’s most iconic heritage buildings. Designed by R.S.D. Harman and opened in 1935, the church holds deep cultural and historical significance as a memorial to early Mackenzie Country settlers. Our task was to deliver a custom woven Axminster carpet, blending the heritage values of this stone church with a floor finish that respects its role as both a worship space and tourism landmark.
Design intent
In designing the carpet, we sought to reflect the church’s spirit of simplicity, resilience, and connection to its natural surroundings. The 80/20 New Zealand wool Axminster construction provides warmth underfoot, while the weave and palette are informed by the stone walls, the lake’s tones, and the rugged high-country landscape. The design responds to the historic and spiritual qualities of the space, providing a refined, durable solution that supports both worship and visitor experience.-
Direct
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Collaboration was central: working with heritage architects, interior designers, and church stakeholders ensured that the carpet design aligned with the building’s architectural character and spiritual function. We developed sample patterns and colour concepts inspired by the natural stone cladding, the lake’s hues, and the building’s historic features. Throughout the process, there was a strong emphasis on sustainable carpet design, artisan craft, and New Zealand-made materials.
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Construction: Woven Axminster
Fibre blend: 80% New Zealand wool / 20% nylon
outcome
In designing the carpet, we sought to reflect the church’s spirit of simplicity, resilience, and connection to its natural surroundings. The 80/20 New Zealand wool Axminster construction provides warmth underfoot, while the weave and palette are informed by the stone walls, the lake’s tones, and the rugged high-country landscape. The design responds to the historic and spiritual qualities of the space, providing a refined, durable solution that supports both worship and visitor experience.