Interior design specialists Nanu Soda have just completed their largest project to date at the Emerald Headingley Stadium in Leeds, devising a total transformation of the main function room and private dining areas to create cutting edge leisure and dining facilities. The project is part of ambitious plans to transform the stadium into one of the finest rugby and cricket venues in the world.
Headingley Stadium is the home of Yorkshire County Cricket Club, Leeds Rhinos Rugby League and Yorkshire Carnegie Rugby Union Clubs. It houses two separate grounds, Headingley Cricket Ground and Headingley Rugby Stadium, served by a dual facing hospitality stand providing facilities for both.
The main function suite, which enjoys a panoramic vista across the cricket ground, was in need of modernisation and refurbishment to match the aspirations of the stadium’s owners. Wanting to bring in a totally fresh approach and take the facility to a premium level, they commissioned Nanu Soda to take a completely new look and weave a cohesive plan for the facility, utilising the company’s established reputation for cutting edge bar and restaurant design.
This was a significant project for Nanu Soda, who were on site for over three months, managing every aspect of the design from washroom specifications through to behind bar functionality.
The detail of the design is spectacular. The designers have completely recreated the traditional space, resulting in a welcoming and embracing area featuring both form and functionality, with décor and furnishings selected to look good and to perform well in use. Bespoke carpeting and individually designed light fittings have enhanced the room, highlighted by a curved feature wall using a specially designed paint finish which emulates leather. The bar uses a pewter finish to create a totally unique yet practical surface texture and effect.
The space also houses eight seater booths with smoked mirror details to the rear and bespoke lighting above. Light box wall panels in the bar area also feature a large TV to show the sporting action. Bric a brac and artwork handpicked by Nanu Soda complete the picture.
The team from Nanu Soda has also recreated the private dining areas which overlook the rugby pitch. Here, bespoke lighting features, handmade natural fibre wallpapers, and parquet floors have totally transformed the two suites, with attractive touches such as chairs echoing the colour of the Leeds Rhinos strip and bespoke cabinetry.
Commenting for the Emerald Headingly Stadium, Head of Operations Sue Ward outlined the importance of the project. “This refurbishment was a vital part of our work to totally transform the stadium,” she stated. “The scheme designed by Nanu Soda demonstrated their in-depth understanding not just of our aspirations but also of how the facility would work best going forward, creating a world class, exciting and welcoming space with the flexibility to match our varied hospitality requirements.”
