As part of the Estates Strategy , our aim is to enhance the campus experience for everyone who works, studies and visits here.
Central to this vision is the upcoming renovation of the iconic Main Quad and central areas of the Wilkins Building, starting in January 2025. This ambitious project will transform these spaces into a welcoming and inclusive environment, combining the charm of the 19th-century heritage with the functionality and standards of the 21st century.
The spaces to be included in the refurbishment works are:
- Main Quad
- North and South Cloisters
- Haldane Room
- North and South Offices
- UCL Art Museum
- Provost’s Dining Room
- Whistler Room
Why Now?
The Main Quad and Wilkins Building have long been at the heart of UCL life. From graduation celebrations and summer shows, to casual student gatherings and performances, these spaces hold a special place in the memories of many. However, their age is showing. Accessibility challenges, outdated infrastructure, and inefficient energy systems are limiting their potential to serve our community effectively.In the spirit of UCL’s radical origins - where barriers to education were dismantled for underrepresented groups - this renovation
A Vision of Accessibility and Inclusion
One of the most transformative aspects of the renovation is the commitment to accessibility. New sloped pathways and improved circulation routes will ensure that all building entrances are accessible from the Quad. Inside the Wilkins Building, by removing the Provost’s Dining Room and Whistler Room, a new lift will provide step-free access to all floors, addressing long-standing challenges faced by individuals with mobility needs.By placing inclusivity at the forefront, UCL is building on its proud history of breaking down barriers and creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
Sustainability at the Core
With climate change posing urgent challenges, sustainability is a key pillar of this project. The renovations will introduce energy-efficient systems for heating, cooling, and lighting. Biodiverse landscaping-including native plantings and improved green spaces-will enhance the Quad’s role as a hub for teaching, research, and reflection.In line with UCL’s sustainability goals, these updates will reduce energy consumption and operating costs, while preserving the historic charm that defines the Quad.
Art and Heritage: Preserving the Past, Enhancing the Future
The Wilkins Building is currently home to UCL’s Art Museum, as well as a large amount of our precious art collection-a treasure trove of works spanning centuries. During the renovations, UCL Estates are working closely with LCCOS (Library, Culture, Collections and Open Science), to ensure these valuable collections will be carefully relocated, with the Art Museum temporarily relocating to a space in the South Wing to allow for teaching and research to continue.Additionally, great care will be taken to protect and preserve the Quad’s architectural and cultural heritage. From conserving the memorial Indian Bean tree, dedicated to the memory of Gladys Wundowa, to safeguarding the iconic portico and observatories,
What to Expect During Construction
The renovation work begins in early January 2025, with preparatory site activities starting over the winter break. Completion is due by January 2026, ready for the start of a year of Bicentennial activity and celebration.While some areas of the Quad will remain accessible initially, temporary closures and hoardings will come into effect by mid-January 2025 as construction progresses, with further details being shared on the Bicentennial Physical Legacy Works webpages. The cloisters will be closed from early January 2025.
We understand that this may disrupt routines and events, including teaching and student activities, but alternative arrangements are currently being put into place to ensure that the impact is mitigated as much as possible, to ensure that these special moments can still be celebrated. This includes using alternative internal spaces across UCL, as well as working with Students’ Union UCL to continue building on their Student Life Strategy by utilising external University of London spaces such as Gordon Square.
For event organisers and building users, we are working closely with stakeholders to find alternative spaces and minimise disruptions wherever possible but also recognise that not every request may be able to be accommodated during this period. The focus is that the long-term benefits of the project will provide vastly improved spaces for the future, some of which are greatly needed to allow us to support exceptional events and engagement opportunities.
Other mitigations, such as temporarily relocating the library entrance, reducing capacity in some surrounding rooms due to reduced fire exits, and alternative routes around campus, will be put into place, and you can find more information about these on the Bicentennial Physical Legacy Works FAQs page.
Looking Ahead
This renovation project is not just about bricks and mortar-it’s about creating a campus that reflects UCL’s values and aspirations for the next 200 years. It’s about ensuring that every member of our community can feel welcome, supported, and inspired.By 2026, the Quad and Wilkins Building will emerge as more than just landmarks. They will stand as symbols of UCL’s commitment to equity, sustainability, and excellence. Together, we are shaping a future where everyone can belong, contribute, and succeed.
For more information, which will continue to be updated throughout the project, plus access to our FAQs, please visit the Bicentennial Physical Legacy Works webpage.
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