Oxford University Colleges

The architectural tradition in Oxford springs mainly from the older college foundations, which commissioned leading architects to design magnificent ranges, quadrangles, chapels and halls. Colleges continue to invest their prestige in architecture, though their needs have changed somewhat. Recent priorities have been high quality student accommodation which can also appeal to the conference market; lecture theatres and other teaching and conference facilities; additional space for the expansion of graduate programmes; and the upgrading of kitchens and dining spaces. This has led to some challenging briefs, especially where new buildings have to be inserted in tight spaces, surrounded by historic structures.

Buildings featured (A – P)