The Kia Oval
London
The Pavilion Redevelopment of the world famous Oval Cricket Ground was clearly always going to require materials to match the prestigious nature of the project, The originally erected building of 1892 retains its wonderful character and incorporates within the new frontage direct design references to the buildings association with both the Duchy of Cornwall, by incorporating the Royal three feathers in the Columns, but also by the design and manufacturer of Urns on the gate posts based upon the original Urn burnt in 1882 and now played for on a regular basis between England and Australia.
Adam Architecture chose to Blend Two Handmade Bricks from a range proposed by EH Smith after they had been tasked with finding matching materials suitable for the new façade, including their use on the Pre-Cast Arches on the project, the resulting Bespoke “Oval Blend” and overall project received an Architectural Commendation Award in 2013 from the Georgian Group in the category of New Building in the Classical Tradition, with this new Entrance finally replacing the old tavern that was demolished a few years ago.
Testimonial
“This project provided a commanding new entrance into Surrey County Cricket Club onto what was the back of the historic 1890’s member’s pavilion. A new brick and stone portico was designed to engage with the form of the existing façade and to coalesce with this through its detail and choice of materials, standing over a new public square below. The Oval is a world famous sporting venue hosting visitors from across the globe and the selection of materials for this project was key in ensuring its success.
EH Smith worked with us to specify the perfect blend of brickwork that would match and compliment that of the existing historic pavilion; a mix of handmade Red bricks was chosen. Their research of the options available allowed us to specify with confidence the blending of two materials to achieve the desired finish, with imperial brickwork selected to ensure the new portico gauged precisely with the brick and stonework of the existing building. Their assurance and support in ensuring the materials arrived on site properly blended allowed the completion of this project to the standards we demanded.
Looking at the completed portico affront the Oval’s historic pavilion is itself testament to the brick selection, in that it blends so seamlessly with the brickwork of the original building.”
- Wayne Reakes RIBA Associate, ADAM Architecture
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