The Manchester School of Architecture, led by Prof Kevin Singh, is at the forefront of exploring the intersection between architectural dreams and construction realities. With modern building techniques enabling the realization of many architectural ideas, limitations still persist in translating visionary designs into tangible structures. Arup, a leader in stadium projects over the past 25 years, has provided insights into how the pitch and intensity of crowd noise can transform following a goal. This change in crowd noise is meticulously based on data from various stadium projects Arup has completed, highlighting the intricate relationship between design and spectator experience.
Fulham's redevelopment of Craven Cottage in a residential area of west London and Everton's new ground at Bramley-Moore Dock are testaments to modern architectural endeavors. Everton's new stadium pays homage to Goodison Park, integrating elements that resonate with its storied past. Meanwhile, the proposed design for Manchester United's Old Trafford stands in stark contrast to traditional stadium designs, featuring three pillars reminiscent of the trident on the Red Devil's crest. However, it has not been without its critics, with some rival fans likening its appearance to a circus tent.
Chris Dite from Arup emphasizes the importance of aligning client and fan expectations with reality.
"We don't want to get into the situation of showing a client or fans an image that everyone falls in love with, that everybody gets behind. And then, when it comes to being a finished building, everyone's like 'well, that doesn't look anything like the picture'," he stated.
Dite further elaborates on the experiential aspect of stadium design, highlighting Arup's innovative approach using a soundproof room equipped with premium grade surround-sound speakers and a large screen.
"We can put a client in there and say, 'when your team scores, this is what it will sound like if your stadium roof is shaped this way,'" he explained.
The historical context of stadium construction is not lost on Dite either. He draws parallels with ancient structures, noting:
"It is not wildly different from when the Colosseum was built 2,000 years ago."
Despite Manchester United being the Premier League’s most valuable team, its current rank at 15th poses challenges and pressures for its new stadium to not only be a symbol of architectural prowess but also a beacon for its global fanbase.
Prof Kevin Singh underscores the significance of brand identity in modern sports architecture.
"It's a global marketplace now and so clubs are competing, you know, all over the world for fans and their attention. So they have an identity in mind and, of course, their stadium is a huge part of that," he remarked.
The evolution of stadium designs continues to reflect broader trends within the sports industry, where brand significance and fan engagement are paramount.
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