Designed to Operate
Supporting Design & Build contractors.
Rockvolt is a distinguished stadia and events consultancy firm, boasting a rich legacy of collaborating closely with stadium owners and their architects.
Our expertise lies in harmonising cutting-edge stadium designs with seamless functionality and long-term operational efficiency.
We understand that a stadium is not just a structure; it's a dynamic hub for sports, entertainment, and community events.
Over the years, Rockvolt has excelled in crafting purposeful solutions that ensure the stadium's design aligns with it’s future operations.
We help optimise everything from crowd and staff operating flows, through to the locations of M&E plant rooms, waste areas, security and catering services.
This comprehensive approach guarantees that every aspect of stadium operations work cohesively post-build, offering enduring excellence in form and function for years to come.
Catering & Hospitality
Mechanical & Electrical
Waste & Recycling
Security & Stewarding
Operational Delivery
Crowd & Staff Dynamics
Operational Consultancy
Hiring an external operational consultancy to add value to the final stadium design is a prudent decision rooted in the need for specialised expertise to ensure optimal functionality. While architects excel in aesthetic and structural considerations, they can benefit from the in-depth knowledge of the intricate daily operational aspects that govern a stadium's functionality.
Stadiums are not merely architectural marvels; they are dynamic spaces that host a myriad of events, each with unique operational requirements.
We bring a wealth of experience in stadium management and operations, offering insights that a design team might overlook. We understand the intricate details of crowd flow, security protocols, hospitality management, and technology integration essential for a seamless operational experience.
By collaborating with architects, our consultants ensure that the stadium is not just visually appealing but is also "designed to operate" efficiently.
Bridging the Gap
We will bridge the gap between architectural vision and operational reality, aligning design concepts with practical considerations. Our involvement helps avoid costly redesigns or modifications later in the venue’s life.
Our expertise extends to compliance with safety standards, accessibility requirements, and the incorporation of technologies to enhance the overall fan experience.
In essence, integrating our operational input into the designs ensures that a stadium is not only an architectural spectacle but a well-functioning, user-friendly space that meets the diverse demands of events and spectators.
This collaboration fosters a holistic approach to stadium design, creating venues that are both aesthetically pleasing and operationally efficient.
Case Study AFC Wimbledon
Rockvolt has been associated with the new Plough Lane Stadium since 2020. We came on board as the design team was in the final phases of value engineering, prior to fit out conclusion and commissioning.
Rockvolt worked with the stadium management team to support decision making and assist with capital allocations.
The final specifications were then developed into an operational budget for the stadium services to include security, maintenance, IT, cleaning and waste. Resource requirements were factored, along with asset management. Operational expenditure budgets were presented.
The commissioning and handover of the stadium was supported and then progressed into a daily and match delivery programme.
Case Study Edgbaston
The Pavilion End of the ground was completely redeveloped between 2010 and 2011 at a cost of £32 million, bringing the ground's capacity up to 25,000. Members of the Rockvolt management team were supplying full TFM services.
The stand was designed as a multi-tiered structure to house the press box, hospitality suites, players changing rooms, administration offices, visitor and learning centre, the Club shop and banqueting halls. The new Pavilion Stand has a seating capacity of over 4,000 spectators.
Discussions with the Construction Project Managment team were held on a monthly basis through the build process to ensure the design led to a positive operational experience.
Again our expertise was also utilised in the final finishes, commissioning and service delivery planning. Operating budgets were then developed.
Case Study Kia Oval
In May 2005 Surrey County Cricket Club completed the works at the Vauxhall End of its ground, increasing the capacity to around 23,000. The development was a multi use new stand with non-match days a primary consideration.
Our main input was at final fit out and then building commissioning. We contributed to floor finishes and fixture procurement. The commissioning process highlighted a number of snaggings and also design aspects that unfortunately required work arounds.
For example the water tanks which supplied the kitchen and toilets, were under specified in the original plans, leading to a loss of pressure and volume at peak demand. Prior to this issue being permanently corrected, a water tanker supply was incorporated into the match schedule. Another item was the main hospitality corridor, which had pinch points due to the structural steels. This resulted in an inefficient catering operation.
