How Christ Church St Kilda Found Warmth Without Compromise

Project Type: Heritage Anglican Church

Location: St Kilda, Victoria

Products Used: Purmo Radiators from Thermosoft Australia

Installation Date: May 2024

The Challenge:

Heating a 190-year-old, heritage-listed church with 9-metre ceilings, bluestone walls, and single-glazed windows, all without disrupting the structure or aesthetics.

Christ Church in St Kilda is a striking example of early Anglican architecture, but keeping the space warm for its ageing congregation had become an ongoing challenge. The church’s old gas-powered system - wall-mounted radiant lamps - had been decommissioned, and there were no practical options for replacing it with a similar setup.

Reverend Father Craig Dalton needed a solution that would bring comfort to his parishioners without interfering with the building’s heritage features. Traditional hydronic heating was ruled out due to its invasive nature, and convection heaters were quickly dismissed as ineffective in such a large space with high ceilings.

The Solution:

Electric Radiators from Thermosoft Australia offered a modern electric alternative that could deliver gentle, radiant heat directly to the congregation without altering the building’s structure.

After an on-site consultation, the team carefully assessed the church’s layout, temperature needs, and installation limitations. The recommendation? A custom layout of European-designed Purmo electric radiators placed alongside the pews, positioned to provide consistent, natural warmth during Sunday services and midweek gatherings.

With some clearance under the timber floor, it was possible to run cables discreetly, preserving the heritage character while allowing for a seamless setup.

A Thoughtful Installation:

Thanks to early planning and clear communication with the parish board and heritage consultants, the installation received formal approval. While the aim had been to have the new heating installed before Easter, the project was completed in May, just in time for the coldest months of the year.

This project is a strong example of how Thermosoft Australia’s electric radiators can adapt to even the most challenging environments. Whether it’s a new build or a centuries-old structure, our focus remains the same: helping Australians experience warmth that feels just right - without the fuss of gas, plumbing, or loud fans.

Why It Worked:

• No invasive plumbing: Ideal for heritage-listed spaces
• Completely silent operation: Perfect for peaceful services
• Consistent, gentle warmth: Delivered exactly where it’s needed
• Elegant design: Radiators blend in without drawing attention
• Low maintenance: No need for servicing or upkeep

Father Craig shared during our initial consultation that while the congregation would continue attending services regardless of the weather, he wanted to ensure they were comfortable while doing so - not distracted by the cold or eager to head home early. Keeping the space warm wasn’t just about temperature, it was about creating a welcoming environment that supported connection and community.