Stadium for Bath names Grimshaw as lead architect

Stadium for Bath, a project seeking to build a new community-focused facility for English Premiership rugby union club Bath, has this week appointed Grimshaw as lead architect to support its ongoing efforts.

Grimshaw will now begin work on developing plans for the new stadium, which, if given the go-ahead, will have a capacity of 18,000 and replace Bath’s current facilities at the Recreation Ground (pictured).

The Stadium for Bath reviewed a list of leading architect firms before opting for Grimshaw, which has links with the city due to its work with Thermae Bath Spa and the recently approved changes to the grade II-Listed former Herman Miller factory for Bath Spa University.

Grimshaw has also worked on a number of sport-related projects, including the Wimbledon Master Plan at the famous tennis venue and horse racing’s Curragh Racecourse.

Tarquin McDonald, chief executive at Bath Rugby, said: “We have spent months undertaking a robust architect selection process and believe that we now have the best team in place to design an amazing place to watch rugby and a truly exceptional destination that will become a jewel in the city’s crown.

“We will now accelerate the design process and we look forward to consulting with stakeholders across the city, including local residents and our supporters, as we all work together to create a brilliant legacy for Bath.”

Kirsten Lees, a partner at Grimshaw, added: “We very much look forward to working with Stadium for Bath to deliver this hugely prestigious and exciting project.

“The site’s sensitive and complex location demands a very special and unique design response in order to deliver the project’s aspirational objectives.”

Meanwhile, Kay Elliott has been appointed destination and interiors architect for the project, with an overarching responsibility for designing the internal look and feel of the new stadium. In addition, Gross Max will lead on riverside design and the public realm.

Last month, Stadium for Bath, also appointed Mike Bohndiek to the new role of chief technology officer.