Youth Hub Christchurch is the first facility of its kind in New Zealand, offering integrated healthcare, education, housing and recreational services to young people aged 10 to 25. Belgotex New Zealand supplied their stain proof Westminster carpet in a selection of stock and indent colours to be installed throughout the Youth Hub's supported housing wing. This wing comprises 22 single-bedroom units and several shared communal spaces, with the chosen five colours of Westminster carpet adding a vibrant touch.

Durability for a dignified approach to transitional living spaces

The Youth Hub team's goal for residents of the supported housing wing is to help them find their way into education, training or work, enabling them to transition into more traditional rental housing — and because of this approach, tenancies range from 3 to 18 months. This means that the flooring in these residential areas needs to perform at a commercial level and retain its appearance so that each room looks fresh and welcoming when a new tenant moves in. The team at Belgotex recommended Westminster, a premium solution-dyed nylon carpet that is stain proof, fade proof and has a long history of excellent performance in the New Zealand market.

Using the full colour spectrum to create a positive environment

Based on feedback from the young people they work with, the Youth Hub team quickly identified that it was important to avoid décor that felt clinical or childish. Keeping in mind that future residents may have experienced unstable living conditions, the interior furnishings were selected to create a supportive, positive environment. With their direct connection to the Belgotex factory in South Africa, Belgotex New Zealand was able to offer the full indent colour range of Westminster carpet for the Youth Hub team to choose from.

The final selection of colours included:

• Gesture — a light-toned neutral
• Synth — a mid-toned neutral
• Empath — a calm sage green
• Vitamin — an intense deep gold
• Flutter — a contemporary peachy pink

In supplying Youth Hub Christchurch with Westminster carpet, Belgotex New Zealand has contributed to a space that not only meets the functional demands of a transitional housing facility but also provides an inviting and uplifting environment for its young residents. By collaborating closely with the Youth Hub team, Belgotex is pleased to have played a small part in the highly supportive mission of the Youth Hub, with each room providing a welcoming space that respects the journey of every young person in their care.