A rural rugby clubhouse

Minchinhampton RFC’s new clubhouse is derived from a traditional agricultural pole barn. On a green field site on a farm within the Cotswold AONB, it was vital that the design was grounded in its agricultural context.

“Matt and the team at Austin Design Works created a design that is unique and beautiful, yet despite this the build cost is still well below what we had been told to expect by the RFU and their retained consultants.”

“We have received much feedback during the build phase from members of the club, the community, passers-by and other local rugby clubs. Their views have been unanimously positive!”

The realisation of the clubhouse is testament to the determination and generosity of its community. Tireless volunteers applied for grant funding and organised fundraising events, while in the meantime both Minchinhampton players and visiting teams roughed it in shipping containers with alfresco showers.

The clubhouse was officially opened by HRH Princess Anne.

Architects: Austin Design Works

Structural engineer: Richard Jackson

Quantity Survayor: Broadhursts

Contractor: Fraser Smith

Electrical contractor: PME Services Gloucester

Plumbing contractor: Mark Pollard Heating Services

Energy consultant: Energist UK

Kitchen and joinery: Paul Large

Photography Mark Walsh