The use of church buildings in the community has perplexed many within the church administration, as congregation numbers stagnate and upkeep costs escalate.
However, under the direction of an innovative minister, who had previously worked as a building surveyor, the vacant church St. David's in Lower Holloway, North London has been revitalised, bringing its interior design up to date and adding a newly excavated basement and a newly created first floor to accommodate community uses, whilst maintaining the aura of a spiritual space.
The extensive refurbishment includes, on the ground floor, an open double height hallway with Reception and café facilities, and providing access to new community meeting rooms on the first floor. The hallway then opens into the church's peaceful worship space.
Quadrant Carpets was chosen by Matthew Lloyd Architects as the carpet supplier for the worship space, which is configured in the original Greek cross formation and retains its important central presence within the building.
With the diverse nature of the new look interior the carpet had to exceed a number of specific requirements. Quadrant Carpets proposed the Change range, from its Powerbond Essentials Collection with its improved acoustic absorption, excellent thermal insulation and increased underfoot comfort, complemented by a 25-year wear warranty. The dynamic design, with its deliberate multi-coloured stripe, provides a contemporary feel, in keeping with the new life of the church.
Martin Chrzan, Area Sales Manager, Quadrant Carpets commented on the project: "St. David's Church is an exciting and unusual project, the Powerbond Change carpet installed provided all the specification requirements that Matthew Lloyd wanted, and the final installation is the perfect flooring for the new worship space, with its rapidly growing congregation."