October 12, 2026

NLCS Ideas Hub and Main Entrance Shortlisted for Education Project of the Year 2026

Written by Pratham Khanna

The North London Collegiate School (NLCS) Ideas Hub and Main Entrance has been shortlisted for Education Project of the Year at the 2026 Structural Timber Awards, recognising an ambitious education project designed to encourage collaboration, creativity and innovative learning.

Designed by Walters & Cohen Architects, the project forms part of the school's wider masterplan, developed to support its long-term ambitions, including its goal of becoming zero carbon by 2050. Completed in April 2025, the building brings together a new main entrance and dedicated learning spaces for innovation, design, engineering, art and science.

IQ Projects was proud to contribute to the project's architectural glazing, supporting the delivery of a contemporary education environment that balances architectural design with the practical requirements of a working school.

Education Project of the Year

The Structural Timber Awards celebrate excellence in timber construction, recognising projects that demonstrate innovation, sustainability and quality in design and delivery. The NLCS Ideas Hub and Main Entrance is one of ten finalists in the Education Project of the Year category.

The Ideas Hub provides specialist spaces where students can explore technology and design, with collaborative areas encouraging experimentation, creative thinking and new approaches to problem-solving. The new main entrance also establishes a secure and welcoming arrival point for students, staff and visitors, while bringing reception and administrative functions together at the heart of the school.

The building wraps around the existing Art Building, maintaining its relationship with the surrounding landscape and offering views towards the central pond. Its material palette responds to the wider school estate, combining brick with the pale Portland stone of the school's Grade II listed Mansion House.

The project has also received recognition at the 2026 Civic Trust Awards, where it was highly commended, and was shortlisted for the Inspiring Learning Spaces Award at the Education Estates Awards.

Congratulations to Walters & Cohen Architects and the wider project team on this recognition.

Planning an education facility or another design-led commercial project? Contact us to discuss your architectural glazing requirements and explore the possibilities for your next project.

Architect: Walters & Cohen Architects

Photography: Jim Stephenson