This shortlisted proposal for a college library in Oxford envisions a new social heart for a 300-year-old campus. Inspired by the college’s picturesque setting, which includes an historic orchard with gardens leading to a lake, we designed a scenic hub nestled in the trees – an atmospheric space for reflection, discovery and exchange. Our scheme aims to dissolve boundaries between building and landscape, and to sensitively respond to the heritage architecture on campus while also providing a state-of-the-art modern facility.
We conceived a 2-storey rectilinear form with a gridded tree canopy-style roof that bathes the building in natural light. Bold structural columns create a series of dynamic, efficient spaces across the floor plan, including alcoves for solo and collaborative study. Reading nooks and book collections are arranged around these ‘tree trunks’, positioned to offer resplendent views into the surrounding greenery, while two columns extend upwards create a circular reading room overlooking the copper-clad roofscape. A covered first-floor terrace provides additional space for learning and socialising.
With its considered approach to spatial zoning and landscape, including new links to well-trodden campus paths, our scheme looks to foster chance encounters and strengthen people’s sense of belonging. Our design is poised to support the college’s long-standing culture of excellence and its next generation of learners.
