Heritage Rescue – Kaeo

I provided the exhibition and design expertise for 3 series /24 episodes. Each episode required major renovation of a small rural Museum or site within a restricted timeframe and budget. Local community members and some of the production team helped pitch in to get to the finish line.

So many different stories, challenges and good times with each unique and fabulous part of New Zealand’s extraordinary landscape and people. I really was able to hone my skills with this series as each project always required a specific and distinctive response on the turn of a dime.

Whangaroa County Museum

We were limited to one room for this program. However the challenge was huge as this room was originally an office due to its tell-tale low, fibre tiled ceiling, bright ceiling hung florescent lighting and large side windows with vertical blinds. Needless to say the challenge was a big one.

The main and most important subject matter, the Boyd, created the reasoning for the slate green colour on its main end wall. This colours slate-like hue reflected the deep, still and enigmatic Whangaroa harbour, so central to his region.

Rich contrasting reds of the panel graphics were chosen to contrast strongly and standout against these walls. The reds also suggested fire and burning which related closely to the subject matter.

The side walls were painted a subtle lighter green and differentiated between the wall segments and themes as well as still creating a rich enclosing colour palette.

The entry annexe and wall was painted a subtle yellow/green tone. This still retained a green colour theme but added some dimension and relief to the moody and dramatic room.

All upright side cabinets were painted Passage and the main wall floor cabinet interiors were painted light yellow which created an accent against the darker green wall.

Fluorescent lighting was removed and spot LED track lighting was introduced to create a subtle and dramatic effect.

Side windows were covered with mdf and painted Passage to block direct sunlight and create some ambiance in the exhibit.

Panel interpretation covering the areas rich forestry , religious past as well as the historic burning of the Boyd. The many characters-historic and contemporary were highlighted in multiple portrait cupboards displayed throughout the space. The rich varied collections were organised in consistent groupings using retrofitted display cabinets and wall hung.