New Rolls-Royce extension building reaches landmark moment

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has completed a significant phase in the construction of its extension at Goodwood, with the new building now formally declared fully weathertight.

To mark the occasion, Chief Executive Chris Brownridge and the Board of Directors hand-signed the final one of 1,745 wooden louvres fitted to the side of the 40,000m² building. The Directors had previously signed the final steel beam to be installed in the building’s internal structure, before it was lifted into place at the structure’s highest point in a similar ceremony last year.

The louvres, each measuring 100 cm x 58 cm, are made from red cedar – the same material used to clad the original building it now adjoins. Red cedar has been selected for its longevity and the way it gently weathers over time to a soft silver-grey colour, blending sympathetically into the surroundings. The building’s front elevation is also clad in red cedar panelling.

With the new building now fully weathertight, work can commence on the fit-out by Rolls-Royce’s specialist Technologies. One of the most significant projects is the new Surface Finish Centre, or paint shop; other departments will be busy with installing new equipment and creating dedicated areas for Bespoke and Coachbuild commissions.

At £300m+, the extension represents the largest single investment in the Home of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars since it opened in 2003. It will further strengthen Rolls‑Royce Motor Cars’ contribution to the UK economy, which currently stands at over £500m annually.

“This moment marks the point at which our new extension building becomes fully weathertight, meaning our specialist Technologies can begin the complex, exacting process of fitting-out, in readiness for full operation in 2029. It’s a really pivotal point in the project – a project that upholds the standards and vision of our founder, Sir Henry Royce, and his famous injunction to strive for perfection in everything we do. The Directors and I have also been inspired by his practice of personally inspecting and signing off each new component, giving them his own ‘seal of approval’. Having previously signed off the final element of the structural steelwork, we wanted to do the same for the last of the wooden louvres that now clad its exterior. It’s enormously exciting to see the work progressing with such pace and precision. To have that sense of personal connection with such a significant project through these signing ceremonies is very special for all of us.” – Chris Brownridge, Chief Executive, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars.

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