The refurbishment of Tudor Boarding House at Rugby School forms part of the school’s ongoing programme to modernise its boarding accommodation while safeguarding the architectural character of its historic estate. Located within the Rugby School Conservation Area, the project seeks to carefully balance restoration, adaptation and contemporary intervention.

Constructed in 1893, the building has evolved through a series of alterations, including the addition of a modern timber-clad extension and replacement of its original pitched and hipped roof with a flat roof and brick parapet following fire damage. The refurbishment and extension reinstate elements of this historic form while introducing a coherent architectural language suited to contemporary boarding life.

A key intervention is the reinstatement of a pitched and hipped roof, restoring the building’s original roofscape and strengthening its presence within the conservation area. New dormers, windows and contemporary gable features are carefully proportioned to reflect the symmetry and rhythm of the existing façade while introducing subtle contemporary detailing.

Internally, the building will be reconfigured to provide high-quality student accommodation and improved communal facilities. An additional storey will accommodate 16 new single ensuite bedrooms, while all existing student rooms will be upgraded to ensuite provision. A new ground-floor extension will expand kitchen and social spaces, creating flexible environments for study, recreation and community life.

The material palette combines continuity with contemporary expression. Roof tiles are selected to closely match the historic fabric, while bronze aluminium dormers and finely detailed cladding fins articulate the new gable features.

Environmental upgrades form an integral part of the refurbishment, including improved lighting and heating systems and internal insulation to enhance thermal performance while maintaining the building’s external character.

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