The Rosalind Franklin Wing Fuses Historic Form with Timber Design
Amy Duong — July 16, 2025 — Art & Design
References: dezeen
The Rosalind Franklin Wing bridges historic form with timber design at St Paul’s Girls’ School in London. It is designed by Jestico + Whiles, the new extension pairs a sensitive Edwardian retrofit with a bold, mass-timber addition. Its exterior nods to campus heritage through red brick, Portland stone, and zinc roofing, while interiors introduce glazed walkways and a double-height, skylit central space that encourages movement and community.
The Rosalind Franklin Wing supports project-based learning with immersive studios, flexible classrooms, and maker labs—each framed by exposed glulam timber and visible services to model sustainable construction. As the first phase in a wider masterplan, the project enhances accessibility, reduces embodied carbon, and celebrates legacy through future-ready architecture, merging educational purpose with contextual elegance.
Image Credit: Killian O'Sullivan
The Rosalind Franklin Wing supports project-based learning with immersive studios, flexible classrooms, and maker labs—each framed by exposed glulam timber and visible services to model sustainable construction. As the first phase in a wider masterplan, the project enhances accessibility, reduces embodied carbon, and celebrates legacy through future-ready architecture, merging educational purpose with contextual elegance.
Image Credit: Killian O'Sullivan
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Educational Architecture - The use of mass-timber and sustainable construction techniques in educational buildings promotes eco-friendly design and reduced embodied carbon.
2. Heritage-inspired Modernization - Integrating modern elements with historic architectural forms creates dynamic spaces that respect cultural heritage while catering to contemporary needs.
3. Flexible Learning Environments - Adaptable classroom designs enable project-based learning and collaboration, fostering more effective educational experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Timber Construction - Mass-timber construction is gaining momentum as a sustainable and efficient building solution within the architectural industry.
2. Educational Facility Design - Innovative school design focuses on creating immersive and flexible environments that enhance learning and community interaction.
3. Historical Preservation in Architecture - Merging modern building techniques with historic preservation offers a unique niche for architects in balancing tradition and innovation.
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