Improving the quality and quantity of student accommodation

Corpus Christi College, University of Oxford: Oldham and Jackson Buildings

The 1880’s stone Jackson Building with vaulted masonry basement and the adjacent 1960’s concrete framed Oldham Building are of architectural and historical significance. Both buildings are occupied by Corpus Christi, University of Oxford, as student accommodation. Our job? To link the two buildings, refurbish the study bedrooms, and introduce en-suite facilities to improve the quantity and quality of the student accommodation in a manner which is sympathetic to the original architectural vision.

Structural challenges included analysing the load paths in the existing concrete slab and determining suitable alterations to remove load bearing elements and increase the footprint of the third floor. The limited existing floor to ceiling height eliminated beam supports as a plausible solution. Working alongside Berman Guedes Stretton architects, we designed external reinforcement that fixed to the underside of the concrete slabs to provide supports with minimal impact on head height.

Key highlights of the refurbishment included the preservation and inclusion of formerly hidden features, a doubling of the onsite cycle parking provision, and the creation of a bright, spacious and flexible garden with an integral performance area. To top it off, it features energy cost-saving sustainable buildings.