Redevelopment work on the Riverside stand at Fulham FC’s Craven Cottage home will be overseen by Heatherwick Studio it’s been announced.

Chairman Shahid Khan, has personally commissioned Heatherwick Studio, led by celebrated designer Thomas Heatherwick, CBE RDI, to contribute its significant expertise to the proposed scheme enabling Mr. Khan to fulfil his aspiration of creating an iconic landmark on the banks of the River Thames.

The west London club has been executing pre-commencement conditions for some considerable time to enable work to begin on the Riverside, where planning permission has already been achieved for a new stand. 

The plans will increase the capacity of Craven Cottage as they strive for a return to the Premier League as well as open up the Riverwalk for the first time, along with the club’s commitment to investment in Bishop’s Park.

Heatherwick Studio famously designed the London 2012 Olympic cauldron, which was lit during the opening ceremony. The cauldron was made of 204 pieces, which were brought into the Queen Elizabeth Stadium by children, representing the coming together in peace of each of the 204 countries competing in the Games and the collaborative human spirit at the heart of them.

The studio is currently working on large-scale architectural projects in Asia, Africa, the Middle East, America and the UK including new headquarters for Google in California and the redevelopment of the David Geffen Hall, home of the New York Philharmonic.

Known for his enormous enthusiasm for illustrious design, Fulham Chairman, Shahid Khan has taken an avid interest in the Riverside investment and was so impressed with Heatherwick Studio’s interest in collaborating on the project that he immediately asked for their involvement.

“The Riverside Stand project required patience and diligence, and ultimately a designer who understands the history of London, the Thames and, of course, Fulham. Thomas Heatherwick is that designer,” said Khan.   

“I have had many meetings with Thomas in the past half-year and while his work speaks for itself, to hear him articulate his vision is something else. 

“Thomas will bring to life what the project, the neighbourhood and the Fulham community deserve.”

The final timescale will be determined following progression of the design and in the interim Fulham will continue to move forward with fulfilment of the pre-commencement provisions as planned.