AAF Evershield® anodising in Australia's integrated stadium hotel

The Oval Hotel sets a benchmark as the first integrated stadium hotel in Australia, redefining the experiences sporting venues can provide for fans and visitors. AAF Evershield® Ebony Matt anodising finish proudly features on the facades of this ambitious project.

At the forefront of hotel – sporting stadia concept

The first hotel in Australia completely integrated into the footprint of a stadium, Adelaide Oval hotel is expected to service over 1500 events held at the Oval annually, making this an all-year-round venue.

This boutique hotel features 138 rooms, divided into two wings, and integrated to the eastern pavilion of the Oval, with a reception pod located at level 3. Its materiality blends seamlessly into the existing building, looking out to and celebrating its parkland setting and context, according to COX Architect.

“This hotel is the jewel in the crown of our renowned Adelaide Oval – which is now without a doubt one of the most exciting sporting venues in the world.”, said South Australian Premier Steven Marshall.

Adelaide Oval hotel harmonises and bridges two distinct offerings of the precinct – the entertainment, dynamism of the stadium and the stillness, calming ambience of the surrounding parklands. Both are crucial to the entire experience.

The perfect anodising finish for such an iconic project

The key design requirement for this project is to recognize its unique connection to the Oval stadium and the park, but also highlighting the hotel’s point of difference. Nowhere does it illustrate stronger and clearer than the reception space. As one of the main thoroughfares for attendees to the stadium, this elevated pod become a beacon of the whole project.

“Achieving a high quality anodised aluminium finish for the Oval Hotel reception pod façade was vital to delivering the design intent of this prominent stadium entry. The Oval Hotel project was delivered under an expedited programme, which applied pressure to the material supply chain.”, said Mr. Luke Goldup, Project Manager from Built Environs.

Built Environs reached out to AAF for a façade solution and after thorough discussion, AAF Evershield® Ebony Matt was specified for the cladding of the pod over the eastern gate.

Utilising AAF Evershield® high-grade anodising, strict processing controls and specialised spectrophotometric equipment, the consistent shading and uniformity of finishes are guaranteed. The final result is a real metallic finish that is highly sustainable and durable with performance warranty of up to 30 years.

The look and feel contribute to framing the hotel’s reception and creating a moment of surprise and awe for visitors upon arriving – a visual signifier of the hotel – without the need for signage.

In addition, Built Environs were happy with AAF’s direct access to various sheet suppliers and mills available in Australia, which resulted in shorter lead time, economical pricing and free pre-purchase services. This is in full compliance with South Australian Industry Participation Policy, which includes use of locally sourced and produced materials.

“From the outset, AAF Anodising was highly collaborative in accommodating delivery milestones and their product was consistently delivered to a high quality and finish.

AAF Anodising went above and beyond to achieve what was best for the project, and helped deliver the project on time to a high standard of quality. AAF Anodising’s proven performance gives us confidence to partner with them on future projects.”

Project Specifications

Architect: COX Architecture in association with Carr

Builder: Built Environs

Photography: Richard Humphrys Photography

Product: AAF Evershield® Ebony Matt