Splayed wooden ribs support the new gauze-like roof of the Warner Stand at Lord's Cricket Ground, "which was designed by Populous as part of a wider overhaul of the stadium," according to Natasha Levy of DEZEEN. The update of the Warner Stand is the "first phase of a 20-year masterplan" orchestrated by Lord's owner Marylebone Cricket Club, which will see "extensive redevelopment of the grounds." A new roof cantilevers over the higher level seats. Echoing the shape of a fan, it "features American white oak beams covered in a 1.6-cm-thick fleece that is "impregnated with aerogel." The fabric "provides acoustic insulation, moderating crowd noise for neighbouring residents, and is the first time the material has been used in Europe," according to the architecture firm. Populous Senior Principal Philip Johnson said, "The roof is the most distinctive feature of the building -- the oak beams give a warmth to the building but also a sense of stability. The fabric, conversely, provides a lightness and translucency." Several bars and catering facilities have "also been introduced at each level of the stand, helping to ease crowd congestion that was becoming particularly problematic on rainy match days when spectators are forced indoors." Included is a large restaurant at the top of the stand that is "fronted by a glazed wall to optimise diners' views of cricket games" (DEZEEN, 9/19).
