We have recently completed the refurbishment and extension of the Grade II listed Kilbracken Boarding House at Rugby School. This project forms part of the school’s ongoing programme to meet modern boarding house standards and requirements.

Set within a conservation area at Rugby School, Kilbracken originally opened on its current site in 1941 as one of the school’s earliest purpose-built boarding houses. The plan for the refurbishment involved the reconstruction of much of the existing building, including the demolition of a flat-roof extension, which was replaced with a 2.5-storey extension. This new addition was designed to be sympathetic to the conservation area and the listed building while providing a contemporary enhancement to the boarding house setting.

The project introduced a series of internal modifications and two external extensions to accommodate the need for increased space. Minor landscaping works at the main entrance, including the relocation of parking, have improved both safety and the building’s overall setting.

Our design approach addressed several challenges, including replacing the original dormitories with 56 en-suite bedrooms across two storeys. Communal areas have been relocated exclusively to a spacious ground-floor space, fostering a strong sense of community among the boys. These welcoming, flexible areas allow students to socialise and study in a variety of setting.

The new windows and dormers reflect the proportions and levels of the existing building, arranged symmetrically to align with the internal bedroom layout. The materials used include brick matching the original for the base, with terracotta hanging tiles on the first floor in a geometric pattern incorporating fishtail and bullnose formats. Standing-seam zinc roofing, previously used successfully elsewhere on the Rugby School estate, was selected as a modern material that integrates well within a heritage setting.

Sustainability was a key focus of the design and construction, which incorporates thick, super-insulated panels and low U-value windows. Lighting and heating systems were also upgraded to meet current standards.

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