Family Lounge: Creating a Home Away from Home for Everton FC Academy Families

A Space for Belonging and Connection

The inspiration behind the Family Lounge was to create a home away from home for families caught up in the demanding life of an Everton FC Academy recruit. It goes beyond being just a guest area and aims to provide a space where families can truly feel a sense of belonging. The lounge features information areas, quotes lining the walls that relate to the family experience, and a mix of spaces and nooks where parents and siblings can socialize in a natural way. It is designed to be multi-functional, catering to socializing, working, eating, and playing.

What sets the Family Lounge apart is the balance it strikes between modern design and the rich history of the club. Subtle displays of Everton branding and colors, such as LED lighting surrounds, bespoke furnishings, and USB power outlets, create a connection to the club's identity. The lounge also incorporates carefully selected colors and sustainable wood features, providing warm tones that are easy to maintain and long-lasting. The intention behind the design was to create a space that would endure for generations to come.

The realization of the Family Lounge involved proactive collaboration between Clive Walters and the client. With a deep understanding of the club and its stakeholders, the designer was able to develop a clear brief that considered the needs of the players' families. The design process included sketches, computer-generated images, and the use of various materials such as wood, perforated metal, nanotech matt material, steel, acrylic, lacquered timber, and vinyl wallpaper.

The Family Lounge was originally a block of five cellular offices that were demolished to create a single space measuring approximately 75 sq ft. The refurbishment project had a tight deadline of just 17 weeks, from receiving the brief to the handover date in September 2018. It was successfully completed at Finch Farm, the club's training facility in Liverpool suburbs.

The design of the Family Lounge was informed by stakeholder engagement research, which involved qualitative data, informal discussions, precedent presentations, mood boards, and written feedback. The aim was to create a modern space that retained a homely, family atmosphere. The lounge's design allows visitors to change the mood of the room through dimmable controls, creating a comfortable and inviting environment. Different generations can interact within the space, with families gravitating towards low stools and banquette seating, while adults gather around tables and chairs to chat.

The Family Lounge is a testament to the thoughtful design and attention to detail by Clive Walters. It provides a space where families can relax, connect, and feel a sense of belonging while reflecting the values and branding of Everton FC. The lounge's innovative design and flexibility have earned it the prestigious Iron A' Design Award in 2019, recognizing its practicality, innovation, and contribution to a better world.