The Royal College of Physicians’ London events venue unveils refurbished main conference space with focus on sustainability and neurodiversity

RCP London Events today announces the reopening of its Wolfson Theatre following an extensive refurbishment. Located within the Royal College of Physicians’ Grade I listed headquarters, the venue’s largest built-in tiered auditorium has undergone significant upgrades with a strong focus on sustainability and inclusivity.

Sustainability at the forefront

Sustainability is a key part of everyday operations across all areas of RCP London Events including catering and waste management, and the refurbishment of the Wolfson Theatre reflects a commitment to environmentally responsible design. 

Every element of the refurbishment was carefully selected to minimise environmental impact while enhancing the delegate experience. The theatre now features carpets made from Econyl yarn, a material crafted from recovered fishing nets, thanks to the eco-conscious expertise of Balsan, a French supplier committed to reducing the environmental footprint of its products.

The seating, provided by Audience Systems in Wiltshire, is not only designed for comfort and durability but is also manufactured in the UK, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transportation. The wood panelling, supplied by Naturewall, is hand-made in East Yorkshire using sustainable materials, including recycled felt, and offers acoustic properties that ensure a superior auditory experience.

These changes not only reduce the environmental impact of the theatre but also create a space that is both modern and mindful of its ecological footprint.

Inclusive design for all

In addition to its sustainable approach, the redesign of the Wolfson Theatre places a strong emphasis on accessibility, particularly for neurodivergent individuals. The updated interiors feature a muted and neutral colour scheme, incorporating shades of grey and green, intended to create a calming environment that is sensitive to the needs of all attendees.

Textured surfaces and natural materials have been incorporated to add depth and warmth to the space without overwhelming the senses. The theatre is also equipped with the latest in accessibility technology, including Mobile Connect for assisted listening, live captioning and signing on request, ensuring that it is a welcoming environment for everyone. A motorised accessible platform lift is also available to accommodate wheelchairs and mobility scooters. 

RCP London Events’ commitment to excellence

The refurbishment of the Wolfson Theatre is part of RCP London Events’ ongoing efforts to enhance its facilities and maintain its position as a leading venue in the events industry. This latest update follows the venue’s recent success at the Conference and Events Awards 2024, where it received the Gold Award for ‘Best Venue (up to 500 attendees theatre style).’

Natacha Allen, head of commercial events at RCP London Events says:“We are excited to unveil the reimagined Wolfson Theatre, a space that not only reflects our commitment to sustainability but also to creating an inclusive environment for all attendees.

“This refurbishment represents a significant investment in the future, ensuring that the Wolfson Theatre remains a top choice for event organisers who value sustainability, accessibility and innovation.”