The brief was clear, but the site made it difficult. The existing clubhouse sits within a flood zone, which meant any new building had to be raised significantly to meet flood requirements. That had a direct impact on cost and buildability.
Parking was also a major issue. The site is already under pressure, and match days regularly create conflict with surrounding uses. Any proposal needed to acknowledge that reality, even if it couldn’t fully resolve it.
Funding also played a central role. The function space wasn’t an add-on; it’s key to making the project viable, giving the club a way to generate income beyond matchdays.
The design follows a straightforward principle: replace the building with something that works harder. A two-storey solution allowed the required accommodation to be stacked efficiently, keeping the footprint tight while meeting the brief. The building is lifted to address flood risk, with the structure and levels designed around that requirement from the outset.
Internally, the layout separates matchday and social functions, allowing both to operate independently. Changing facilities are arranged for easy use, while the function space is positioned to take advantage of views and natural light.
We tested a number of iterations through the design process, adjusting the scheme in response to cost, planning and site limitations.
The scheme brings forward a clear, viable proposal for the future of the club. It addresses the core requirements of the brief while responding directly to the constraints of the site, particularly flood risk and access.
There’s a strong focus on long-term sustainability – both in how the building functions day to day and how it generates income for the club. It’s a project shaped by real pressures, but one that establishes a solid foundation for the club to build from.