Manchester United FC Changing Hub

The redevelopment of Manchester United Football Club’s South Stand Suites and Changing Hub at Old Trafford stands as a testament to the transformative power of sport-led urban regeneration in Greater Manchester. Unlike the newer North, East and West stands, the historic South Stand has evolved incrementally over the years, retaining a distinctive character that reflects the club’s rich heritage and the city’s industrial legacy.

BDP’s approach to the internal refurbishment and reconfiguration of the VIP, Directors’ Press and Corporate Hospitality areas was rooted in a deep understanding of the stadium’s sectional possibilities, particularly the raking profile of the terrace, which enabled the design team to rediscover the ‘archaeology’ of this iconic venue. The project was not simply about upgrading facilities; it was about reimagining the spatial experience, moving beyond the traditional ‘clubby’ atmosphere typical of sports venues to embrace a more textured, industrial aesthetic that is unmistakably Mancunian. This vision was realised through the creation of multi-level hospitality spaces that offer a sense of openness, quality and durability, while remaining practical for the demands of a football stadium environment.

The Changing Hub project further exemplifies this commitment to innovation and excellence. By reshaping the existing space within Old Trafford, the design team delivered significant improvements in environment, circulation, functionality and operational efficiency. The renewed Changing Hub now provides a high-quality match-day home for players and coaching staff of both home and away teams, featuring state-of-the-art amenities such as pre-activation zones, spa and recovery areas, medical and nutrition facilities, and comfortable lounge spaces. At the heart of the scheme is the home team dressing room, organically shaped to fit the constraints of the existing structure while fostering an intimate and engaging match-day environment.

Bespoke lockers offer practical storage, comfortable seating and integrated personalised technology, while user-controllable audio-visual and lighting systems allow for a dynamic range of atmospheres—from theatrical scene-setting to high-energy match-day functionality. This integration of advanced technology and thoughtful design not only enhances player performance and wellbeing but also elevates the visitor experience on stadium tours, making the Changing Hub a key element of Old Trafford’s legendary appeal.

The MUFC South Stand Suites and Changing Hub project at Old Trafford exemplifies a holistic approach to stadium redevelopment, balancing respect for heritage with forward-thinking design and operational efficiency. The result is a set of facilities that not only meet the practical needs of players, staff and guests but also contribute to the creation of a vibrant, sustainable and internationally recognised sporting and cultural destination. This case study highlights the importance of strategic vision, stakeholder collaboration and innovative design in delivering successful urban regeneration projects that leave a lasting legacy for both the club and the wider community.