The Litestructures team fully designed, built and kitted out the structure, which includes a full size, fully fitted catering kitchen, toilets, air-conditioning and an integrated AV system. The structure had to be portable to allow transportation between events, but equally, as a key part of the company's branding, it had to have outstanding visual impact.
A clear requisite was that every area had a solid quality, giving an almost permanent feel, whilst the deployment should be restricted to three days for a crew of no more than eight operatives.
When fully assembled, the structure measures 16m in length on two storeys,
comprising six demountable pods consisting of steel unitary frames clad in glass-fibren reinforced plastic (GRP), offering an ideal surface for Ford's branding.
The interior had to match the aesthetic appeal of the exterior and so the finishes are high gloss white composite and natural stainless steel, giving a sleek technical finish, contrasting with a dark composite floor throughout. Lengths of Prolyte S36R truss support the upper floor and a complete custom staircase, including handrails, with a wood finish to the treads, links the two levels.
Another key aspect is the integration of all lighting and AV transmissions within
integrated truss rails, leading to an environment that is effectively cable free.
The ground floor has been designed to host catered receptions for up to 100 guests; while the upper floor includes a VIP area, two meeting rooms, a physiotherapy room, an engineering pod with management office, as well as a specific sponsor oriented suite.
Neil Robinson, M-Sport project manager comments, "Drawing upon the innovative vision that is a key part of the operations of M-Sport and Ford WRT, we were determined to move forward the concept of the Rally HQ - We wanted to create an environment that actively promotes the comfort and performance for employees, sponsors and guests."
(Jim Evans)
