Axminster Custom Carpet Ideal Solution for Historic Preservation Projects

Weaving History In Place: Custom Axminster Carpet at the Montana State Capitol

The Montana State Capitol, built in the early 1900s and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1981, was recently renovated to preserve its historic integrity while enhancing the functional requirements of a modern legislative government building.

To meet this challenge, Hennebery Eddy Architects of Bozeman led the historical renovation project and selected Shaw Contract Hospitality as the flooring partner. The collaboration was highlighted by the design and installation of custom Axminster carpet, an 80% wool / 20% nylon blend carpet specifically designed for the historic House chamber.

The new carpet design was deeply influenced by the existing carpet installed on the chamber floor for nearly 20 years. The original floral pattern was the inspiration for the new custom Axminster design that was carefully refined to integrate with the historic interior, said Kelly Livingston, Hennebery Eddy Interior Designer.

“The existing wool carpet featured a beautiful floral pattern with scale and color that was well-suited to the historic setting. Our goal was to replicate that balance and design something that felt original to the space while improving its durability and performance,” Livingston said.

Manufactured with 80% wool / 20% nylon blend yarn, Shaw Contract Hospitality Axminster custom carpet provides a balance of luxury and performance. Axminister is ideal for high-traffic public spaces that must also uphold a sense of tradition in historical preservation projects.

“The new Shaw Contract Hospitality Axminster carpet honors the legacy of the chamber’s design while elevating its function for today’s needs,” Livingston said.

Collaboration Built for Precision

For a project of this significance, there was no room for error. With a fixed deadline dictated by the state’s legislative calendar, the timeline for design, production, delivery and installation was non-negotiable.

Shaw Contract Hospitality partnered with Hennebery Eddy to meet the strict tight project timeline. Once the carpet was manufactured, Livingston visited the Shaw’s Georgia headquarters to personally inspect all 12 rolls of custom carpet for accuracy and quality. Once approved, the carpet was shipped to Montana, allowing the renovation work to immediately begin.

“Shaw was instrumental in helping us meet a very tight project timeline,” Livingston said. “It was critical to have the custom carpet on site before construction could begin, and Shaw made that possible.”

Livingston described Shaw Contract Hospitality as a dependable and proactive partner, deeply involved in every phase of the project. From planning and scheduling to budgeting and coordination, Shaw Contract Hospitality helped ensure every aspect stayed on track. They also deployed a team of installation specialists to assist local crews and quickly resolve any on-site issues. Following the installation, a team of specialized Shaw Contract Hospitality experts trained Capitol facilities teams on the proper maintenance for long-term optimal carpet performance.

Why Axminster Custom Carpet for Historic Renovations?

Historic preservation is more than just visual accuracy; it honors the past while preparing a space for the future. Shaw Contract Hospitality Axminster solution achieved both.

“The wool carpet integrates seamlessly into the historic House chamber,” said Livingston. “Its traditional pattern and colors complement the existing interior and preserve the space’s character.”

Axminster’s woven structure ensures it will withstand decades of use without compromising appearance. And with vibrant, long-lasting color, natural stain resistance and softness underfoot, the carpet delivers on every level — both for those who admire the space and those who rely on it every day.

Shaw Contract Hospitality Axminster custom carpet is ideal for historic renovation projects:

• Durability that honors legacy: The integrally woven construction ensures long-term performance, ideal for spaces that must endure constant use while preserving their integrity.
• Design flexibility: From ornate historical patterns to custom modern interpretations, Axminster carpets offer limitless design options to meet the aesthetic requirements of preservation projects.
• Material excellence: The 80/20 wool-nylon blend provides rich texture and color depth with the resilience necessary for public spaces.

Ready to Start Your Own Axminster Custom Carpet Design?

Explore our Axminster collection and contact your Shaw Contract Hospitality Account Manager to begin designing a custom carpet that brings your historical preservation project to life.