New and returning students arriving at Robinson this autumn will notice a change to Front Court: over the summer, large areas of its distinctive red bricks have been replaced as part of a major programme of work to protect the College from water ingress.

From July through September 2026, Robinson’s Estates team and project partners, including Bidwells and McConnell, have worked across Front Court and Herschel Court Bridge, replacing bricks and installing a new waterproof membrane beneath them. The work will help protect the main building from water ingress during periods of heavy and unpredictable rainfall.

The summer programme has also included work on the College kitchens and electrical infrastructure, alongside preparations for the Anniversary Garden. Some of these changes will be visible to returning students, Fellows and visitors; others will quietly improve the spaces and services that support daily life at Robinson.

As custodians of a Grade II* listed building designed by Gillespie, Kidd & Coia, we have a responsibility to care for its distinctive architecture while ensuring it continues to meet the needs of our College community.

Matt Stokes, Head of Estates at Robinson, said: 

“This important work may remain largely unnoticed – although some may spot that Robinson’s famous red bricks are looking a little smarter and redder – but this does not diminish its positive impact in safeguarding our College.

“We would like to thank all our donors who have helped to make this work possible, as well as our dedicated team at Robinson and our project partners for their work on this time-sensitive project.

“As we approach Robinson’s 50th anniversary in 2027, we continue to balance the needs of today’s College community with our responsibility to maintain and improve these spaces for future generations.”

We look forward to sharing more about the building works programme in the coming months.

Did you know? Robinson’s famous red bricks come from Swanage in Dorset. Their distinctive colour develops when iron in the clay oxidises during firing.