Wolfson celebrates completion of milestone kitchen refurbishment

The completion of this ambitious undertaking coincides with the college's 60th anniversary celebrations, ushering in a new era of sustainable and accessible dining for the Wolfson community – a testament to the College’s commitment to decarbonisation and enhancement. 

The centrepiece of the renovation is the new kitchen, with efficiency and sustainability underpinning all elements of the design. 

"The technical aspects of this renovation are truly impressive,” says Neil Newman, Clerk of Works. “We've implemented induction appliances throughout the kitchen, improved access with a new back-of-house lift, increased storage capacity, and totally removed all gas equipment as part of our sustainability initiatives, with the added technology of heat recovery with a revolutionary ventilation system. These changes not only make the spaces more functional but also significantly more sustainable.” 

The refurbishment project has also transformed the dining areas, with a focus on improving the overall experience for students, Fellows, staff, and guests. 

“It's not just an update,” says Darren Smith, Domestic Bursar. “The renovation is a reimagining of how we can create a vibrant, efficient, and environmentally conscious hub for our College.” 

Tim Hurst, Wolfson’s Head Chef, has been working with his team to develop new menus for the new spaces, including new and delicious offerings in the Club Room’s modernised coffee bar. "The renovation has given us a highly efficient space with top-quality, durable equipment,” says Tim. “We are all very much looking forward to working in this new space and continuing to produce high quality food for the Wolfson community. Food and dining are integral parts of the Wolfson experience, and I can't wait for everyone to experience these new and updated spaces.” 

“This has been a long, sometimes challenging, and often loud process," says Bursar, Joanna Cheffins. "We started a feasibility project in the spring of 2022 and kicked off the formal project in February 2023, with building work starting over the winter vacation later that year. A lot of people have put a huge amount of work into getting us to where we are today. I am extremely grateful to everyone who has participated and for the patience and support of Wolfson members."

"We are thrilled to re-open the doors to some of the most essential spaces of the College; places where our students, staff, Fellows, and members gather together for the wide-ranging events and diverse conversations that define our interdisciplinary community.”  

And thank goodness the coffee is back. 

Learn more

With the renovation, we’ve made some adjustments to the timings of the dining spaces. Head to our Food and Dining page for more information.