Brentford FC

The newest stadium in London, at a capacity of 17,250, Brentford Community Stadium is the joint home of Brentford FC and London Irish. Many years in the making, the stadium forms the centrepiece of a mixed-use masterplan, offering residential accommodation and regenerative opportunities.

Four stands bound by a triangular form – AFL’s distinctive design has been influenced by a uniquely shaped site. The 17,250 capacity stadium is surrounded on all sides by the M4 and two railway lines. Even with these restrictions, the bowl maximises seat capacity with exceptional views, creates a strong foundation for adjacent residential developments, and leaves room for future expansion.

Environmental factors were a primary concern throughout the planning and construction process. The amount of reinforced concrete used in construction was halved when compared with the original scheme. Arup’s structural engineers also reduced the amount of primary steel by a third, further cutting embodied carbon and costs. Energy, noise and emissions levels are all well within the London planning framework requirements and the stadium has achieved a BREEAM Very Good sustainability rating.

In order to meet planning requirements, a lightweight external envelope had to match the aesthetic appearance of concrete, requiring a mixture of soft varying tones and textures. A highly durable and resistant finish was also needed to suit panels installed at low level and in the pedestrianized areas around the perimeter of the building.

Development work with the architect resulted in the selection of a superdurable powder coating applied to the VariAL-TF panels, designed to imitate the appearance of concrete panels and offering additional protection to the facade panels, which benefit from superior colour stability and gloss retention, even in harsh environments.

The panels were pre-routered on the rear, enabling flexibility in achieving tolerances of the complex angles on site. This enabled the installers to adjust individual panels as required on site.