Retirement Villages Group (RVG) and Bernard Interiors are pleased to announce that The Wyldewoods in Chester has been shortlisted for The Anna Whitehead Prize for Sustainability at the prestigious British Institute of Interior Design (BIID) Awards 2026.
Sustainability at the Heart of Design
The award recognises projects that place sustainability at the core of their design, delivery and long-term impact. As the first Thrive Living community delivered under RVG’s net-zero strategy, The Wyldewoods sets a new benchmark for sustainable later-living, combining net-zero carbon operations, fossil fuel-free energy systems, circular design principles and a 20% biodiversity net gain.
At The Wyldewoods, sustainability has been approached holistically, extending beyond carbon alone. The development is designed to be net zero in both operational and embodied terms, with a focus on long-term climate resilience—minimising environmental impact while supporting residents’ comfort, health and wellbeing.
Bringing Together Design, Sustainability and Connection
The landscape-led masterplan, developed in collaboration with RCKa, places homes, green spaces and a central community courtyard at its heart, encouraging walking, social interaction and connection with both nature and the surrounding neighbourhood.
Located close to Chester city centre, The Wyldewoods redefines later-life living through thoughtfully designed homes, high-quality communal amenities including a pavilion and clubhouse, and a vibrant community centred on wellbeing, independence, and connection.
Through close collaboration, RVG, Bernard Interiors and RCKa have created a development that balances environmental responsibility with comfort, quality and longevity. Sustainability has been embedded throughout—from adaptable communal spaces and durable materials to biophilic design features that enhance wellbeing and social engagement.
Tim Seddon, CEO at Retirement Villages Group, said:
“This recognition reflects the direction we’re taking across our Thrive Living collection, creating places where people can live independently while staying connected to the community around them. At The Wyldewoods, sustainability isn’t an add-on, it underpins how the community works day to day - supporting quality of life for residents and long-term value for the future.”
Jen Bernard, Founder and Creative Director at Bernard Interiors, added:
“This recognition reflects the power of partnership, clear strategy and shared ambition. From the outset, RVG challenged us to create a new benchmark for sustainable retirement living, and through close collaboration we were able to translate that vision into a community that delivers measurable environmental performance alongside exceptional resident experiences. The Wyldewoods demonstrates that when sustainability is embedded within the brief and supported by a committed project team, design can become a catalyst for both social and environmental impact.”
Explore The Wyldewoods
The winners of the BIID Awards will be announced later this year.
To find out more about The Wyldewoods click below
