The oldest building at St John’s College at Oxford University (the uni’s wealthiest college) has been around since 1555. So, it’s understandable that over the centuries it’s had to go through a fair amount of makeovers and renovations.
The latest of these, which has taken ten whole years, has just been completed. The huge project, headed up by Wright and Wright architects, has involved restoration and remodelling of its cluster of libraries, building a new library and study centre, an environmental upgrade to its Grade I listed spaces and the conservation of the Canterbury Quadrangle, described as the most important baroque building in the UK.
The newest library, which opened in 2019 was designed to be zero-carbon and features a stunning sculpture carved into the stonework of the external walls, designed by artist Susanna Heron. By bringing student spaces closer, the work has ensured that the historical Canterbury Quad is once again central to college life, rather than just being visited by tourists. Over the decade-long project, there were apparently a few ‘eureka’ moments including the discovery of a hidden passage and hidden wall paintings.
Sandy Wright, a founding partner at Wright and Wright Architects, said: ‘Our work at St John’s College has focused on improving the student experience and preserving the function and meaning of historic buildings, through an approach that develops a built tradition of craft and making, and enhances the spirit of the place.’
Here are a few pics of the revamp.
Members of the public are able to admire certain parts of the college, including the newly restored Canterbury Quad between 1pm and 5pm, or until dusk in the winter.
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