After plans were revealed at the end of last month to build a permanent home for World Rugby in the sport’s birthplace, Manchester-based design firm Mather and Co have been appointed to create the attraction in Warwickshire, UK.
Billed as a “fully-interactive and immersive museum”, the Hall of Fame will be located within the town of Rugby’s art gallery, museum and library.
Mather has a strong portfolio of sporting experiences, including the upcoming
National Heritage Centre for Horseracing and Sporting Art in Newmarket, as well as the Springboks Experience in Cape Town, South Africa, and the National Football Museum in Manchester among others.
The design firm has worked closely with both World Rugby and Rugby Borough Council in the development of the new attraction, which will showcase rugby and its rich heritage.
The museum’s Hall of Fame will celebrate a collection of 120 personalities who have defined the sport, including Pierre de Coubertin, Clive Woodward and Danie Craven. As well celebrating Rugby’s legendary performers, the attraction will also feature a gallery focussing on rugby’s current events and how the game is expanding and evolving in various formats.
“We are thrilled to have a permanent destination for the World Rugby Hall of Fame that will allow visitors to relive rugby’s greatest moments throughout the game’s long and fascinating history,” said World Rugby chief executive, Brett Gosper.
“We will be working closely with Mather in order to bring our vision to life and ensure the Hall of Fame becomes a popular attraction for millions of people to enjoy for generations to come.”
Fan engagement will be at the heart of the project, which opens its doors in late 2016, with visitors encouraged to get into rugby either as a player or a fan.
The move comes a year on from England’s hosting of the Rugby World Cup which drew thousands of eyes towards the sport and the wider British game.
