Woodland Quad at Wellington College makes the RIBA Shortlist

Woodland Quad at Wellington College, has been shortlisted by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) in the South Awards regional category 2026.

Completed as part of the College’s long-term estate masterplan, Woodland Quad represents a transformational step in the evolution of the historic Crowthorne campus. Set within a mature Scots pine woodland, the project creates a distinctive new character area comprising a co-educational sixth form boarding house, a boys’ day house and a central renewable energy centre.

The scheme has been widely praised for its design quality, sustainability credentials and contribution to student wellbeing. Constructed using cross-laminated timber and other low-carbon materials, the buildings achieve a substantial reduction in embodied carbon while providing warm, calm and uplifting environments for pupils. Their carefully modelled forms respond sensitively to the surrounding landscape and neighbouring heritage buildings, bringing nature into everyday student life.

A key feature of the project is its pioneering energy strategy. A new ground-source heat pump array, housed within the energy centre, supplies low-carbon heating not only to the Woodland Quad but also to Wellington College’s historic Victorian buildings—marking a major step toward the College’s ambition of carbon neutrality.

Beyond its environmental impact, Woodland Quad plays a vital strategic role. As a decant facility, it enables the phased refurbishment of existing accommodation, supporting Wellington College’s transition to full co-education while improving pastoral provision and operational efficiency.

The RIBA shortlist recognition celebrates the success of a close partnership between client and architect, combining strategic vision with careful delivery. Woodland Quad stands as a landmark project for Wellington College and a benchmark for sustainable, wellbeing-focused educational design—demonstrating how contemporary architecture can enrich historic campuses while shaping a more inclusive and low-carbon future.

The RIBA judges will be visiting the site in March 2026.

To read more about the project click here

To read more about the shortlist click here