Oxford architecture
On arriving in Oxford, famously a city of dreaming spires, there is an abundance of architectural wonders to see. For visitors looking for the influences of recent work on the city, head first for the Saïd Business School. A copper-clad ziggurat, it is a building that performs the trick of appearing to be brand new and yet still rooted in history. Its spacious feeling is reinforced beyond the lobby by the cloistered garden, which then rises to form an amphitheatre for outdoor lectures and other performances. Don't miss the barrel-vaulted library on top of the building's front entrance with its vast, smooth wave of a copper roof. Not far away is the modernist Rothermere American Institute, an environmentally responsive building designed in the traditional Oxford materials of Bath stone, oak and zinc. Then, on to the five-floor Chemistry Research Laboratory. Finally head for close by Keble College and its award-winning Sloane Robinson Building, which has many features to minimise environmental impact and, although not easy to view, it is near the previous two buildings and is worth a visit just to see the amazing brickwork.
Useful links:
Chemistry Research Laboratory
Sloane Robinson
Wherever possible we have tried to choose schemes that are available for the general public to appreciate, that are near to one another, and can be enjoyed on foot. There are other RIBA award-winning buildings at this destination.
www.architecture.com has details of all nationally awarded winners since 2002.
Related links