Jim Clark
Grandstand

Our responsibilities included:

• Recommending the most suitable materials to achieve a high-quality and durable finish.

• Conducting a comprehensive site survey, including accurate measurements for all graphic applications.

• Planning the installation methodology, assessing site access and selecting the appropriate access equipment to ensure a safe and efficient installation.

• Producing all printed graphics to the required specifications.

• Sourcing and organising the structural hardware required for the installation.

• Completing project-specific risk assessments and installation planning.

Managing the installation to ensure all works were completed safely, efficiently, and within the agreed project time-frame.

John E Wright was appointed to deliver the complete rebrand of the BRDC Clubhouse Grandstand at Silverstone Circuit, transforming it into the new Jim Clark Grandstand. The project comprised the installation of full-height feature graphics to both gable ends, new branding to the rear elevation, including the BRDC shield, and the fabrication and installation of bespoke built-up lettering spelling "Jim Clark Grandstand."

Given the scale and complexity of the project, detailed planning began with an initial site survey in early February. This enabled our team to accurately measure all installation areas, confirm production requirements, and assess the most suitable installation methods. As the surrounding area was undergoing redevelopment, we recognised that site access was likely to change before installation. To ensure the project remained on track, we carried out additional site visits in the weeks leading up to the scheduled installation in mid-April. During the final site survey, it became clear that ongoing construction work had significantly reduced access to one of the gable ends. Our original plan involved using a cherry picker; however, following a reassessment of the site, we adapted the methodology and completed both gable end installations using mobile access towers. Our cherry picker was still used for installing the rear signage. By reviewing and adapting the installation plan in advance, we ensured the project could proceed safely and without delay.

For the two feature gable ends, measuring 13.7m x 5.9m, we presented the client with several material options, including printed Dibond panels, self-adhesive vinyl applied to pre-installed ACM panels, and a tension fabric system. After reviewing the advantages of each solution, we recommended a bespoke tension fabric system, as it was the only option capable of delivering a completely seamless finish across such a large area. The chosen solution comprised a custom-manufactured aluminium frame, built specifically to the dimensions and angled profile of each gable end, complete with a knock-in tension bar system.

The graphics were produced onto a durable outdoor PVC banner material, providing a vibrant, weather-resistant finish while allowing the artwork, created by a local artist, to be displayed without visible joins. The rear elevation featured a large-format BRDC shield, measuring 2.96m x 3.32m, which was direct printed onto 3mm Dibond, precision cut to shape, and manufactured in three sections for ease of handling and installation. The sections were installed with carefully aligned horizontal joins to create a clean, high-quality finish. To complete the rebrand, we fabricated the "Jim Clark Grandstand" lettering spanning 7.9m across the rear of the stand. Each letter was manufactured with 50mm stainless steel returns before being wet sprayed in black, creating a durable, premium-quality finish that complemented the architectural design of the grandstand.

Installation was originally programmed over four days. However, adverse weather conditions, including periods of high winds, prevented the installation team from achieving the required tension on the large-format fabric graphics during the initial programme. Rather than compromise the quality of the finished installation, the graphics were temporarily positioned before the team returned a few days later, when conditions had improved, to complete the final tensioning. The rear signage installation was completed as planned without any issues.

The project was successfully completed in time for the official reopening of the BRDC Clubhouse, attended by a number of well-known figures from the motorsport community, including former Formula One drivers. The client was delighted with the finished result, and the local artist whose work featured on the gable ends praised the quality of the reproduction and installation. The completed rebrand went on to become a prominent visual feature during the British Grand Prix, providing a striking focal point seen by thousands of visitors throughout the event.

Partner with John E Wright for complex, high-impact branding projects that require precision engineering, creative material solutions, and adaptive site management. From bespoke tension fabric systems and built-up architectural lettering to navigating challenging access and unpredictable weather, our team delivers flawless finishes on time - every time.