When Hillsborough Football Stadium reached out to us, they were facing a significant challenge. The VIP boxes had a mix of mismatched, DIY-installed window films, leading to inconsistent aesthetics. Beyond appearance, the glare from the large windows was a major issue, and the lack of privacy left officials and guests exposed.
About Hillsborough Football Stadium
Hillsborough Football Stadium, one of the most iconic sports venues in the UK, has been home to Sheffield Wednesday FC for over a century. Known for its rich history and passionate fanbase, the stadium hosts not only football matches but also concerts, events, and VIP functions. As a venue that hosts a wide range of activities, creating a comfortable, professional, and aesthetically consistent environment is crucial, especially in areas like the VIP boxes and control room, where high-profile guests and staff spend significant amounts of time.
The Decision-Making Process
When the stadium’s management recognised the issues with glare, privacy, and the mismatched window films, they knew they needed a solution that would address both the practical and aesthetic challenges. After a detailed consultation with Dominic Wilbraham, the Company’s Managing Director, it was clear that we offered not only the expertise but also the right product for the job. Our dark grey window tint stood out as the best option because of its combination of functionality and style. We presented the product in a way that emphasised its advantages for a sports venue of this scale, and after considering all the factors, the decision was made to move forward with our solution.
The Solution
We recommended our external dark grey window tint, which offered several key benefits:
-A sleek, dark smoke appearance that enhances the overall look of the space.
-Effective glare reduction, improving comfort and visibility.
-Increased privacy for the VIP boxes and control room.
-UV protection, reducing fading and protecting valuable furnishings.
The CHAS-accredited installation included 30 executive boxes and the control room, totalling a huge 99 windows, which was completed over two days during a sunny stretch in Sheffield, with no disruption to the stadium’s operations.
The transformation was immediate: the VIP boxes and control room were not only more visually consistent but also cooler, with less glare and more privacy.
The Results
For us, this project was about more than just improving the aesthetics of the stadium. It was about creating a functional, comfortable, and secure environment for both staff and visitors. The officials in the control room are now looking forward to a more comfortable summer, thanks to the reduction in glare and the improved working environment.
“Thank you to you and your team for the amazing work. You’ve done an excellent job and we’re all so impressed with the result.”
- Steve, Maintenance Assistant Manager, Hillsborough Stadium
BEFORE:
AFTER:
This project demonstrates how a considered approach to window film specification and installation can resolve multiple operational issues, without disrupting day-to-day activity. If you're facing similar challenges at your venue or facility, we're happy to discuss how Glasstint Direct can support your requirements with practical, effective solutions.