Heritage Open Day: A look back at the concepts and creation of the Kirklees Stadium, culminating in the building being named RIBA's Building of the Year Award in 1995. More than a few people were surprised when the Kirklees Stadium won the Royal Institute of British Architects’ (RIBA) Building of the Year Award in 1995.
The judges praised the Lobb Partnership for their bold, futuristic design, realised by builders Alfred McAlpine and structural engineers YRM Anthony Hunt Associates. Special recognition was given to the curved steel trusses, which eliminated the need for supporting columns, allowing all spectators to enjoy an unencumbered view of the pitch.
Local bard Simon Armitage later evoked this space-age spirit when he described the stadium as a “blue and white lunar module.