Rowley Mile Grandstand, Newmarket Racecourse

The 5 storey grandstand designed to accommodate up to 10 000 visitors incorporates bars at all levels and a variety of dining facilities from buffet and self service to a spectacular tiered restaurant at 3rd floor level providing dining, magnificent viewing and better facilities for 350 race goers.

Tote facilities are distributed throughout the building at every level. Technical provision includes: judges, photo finish, TV camera positions, commentary and racing stewards with extensive accommodation for the racing press.

The design allows uninterrupted viewing of racing from all levels whilst using the structural elements to articulate the building in an elegant and dramatic fashion.

A series of terraces and balconies at the rear of the building provide race goers with views of the parade ring and winners enclosure. Scenic lifts have been incorporated to add to the drama and pleasure.

Facilities and access for the disabled at every level have been fully integrated into the design.

Carefully controlled environmental conditions will provide high levels of comfort and the latest video wall technology will enhance the total racing experience.

The general design philosophy was to create a building which is very much of its time, but which also provides reassurance to the client and racing world by respecting traditional values. Such considerations as the choice of quality materials which will age gracefully, and the extensive use of white externally, continues the racing tradition. The combination of traditional materials and sophisticated modern detailing is carefully used throughout. This is truly a building of the 21st Century.