Renewing one of George Gilbert Scott’s most accomplished works at the University of Oxford, this project combines a sensitive restoration programme with transformative improvements to the library’s study spaces visitor accessibility, and environmental performance.

The neo-gothic Jackson Library at Exeter College was built by George Gilbert Scott in 1857, and its setting is one of the most sensitive in Oxford. The library is Grade II listed and sits next to the 17th-century walls of Convocation House, the Grade I listed historic court room of the Bodleian Library.

A priority for the project, along with reviving the spirit of Scott’s interiors, was the creation of additional study space for students, alongside improvements to the building’s circulation, access and environmental performance. Conservation of the building envelope as well as its historic bookcases was also badly needed.

The judges said: ‘A beautifully released and detailed reinvention that unlocks the building for contemporary use.’

You can enter this year’s awards to get the recognition your product and service deserves  today at: fxdesignawards.co.uk/2025/en/page/how-to-enter.

FINALISTS & JUDGES’ COMMENTS

  • Meizhou Dongshan Hospital by Fancy Design – ‘Fluid curving lines soften the typically hard edged environment of a hospital setting’
  • London City Hall by Architecture 00 with Fletcher Priest Architects – ‘Great spaces created for community engagement’
  • Cowan Centre for Medical Sciences & Biotechnology by Gow Hastings Architects – ‘Light, bright spaces, with carefully placed colour blocks to enliven the most sterile spaces’
  • University of Westminster, Photography Department by Rock Townsend Architects – ‘Bold and fun use of block colour with purposeful reference which inherently speaks of photography’
  • University of Westminster Games and Emerging Media Dept, by Rock Townsend Architects – ‘A contemporary space that balances warmth and tones with clever interventions’
  • London Metropolitan University Skills and Simulation Centre by Stride Treglown – ‘Effective use of colour to demarcate between social and focus spaces – supporting learning on’ and ‘off’ the job’
  • Shanghai Hongqiao – One Stop Service Center for Overseas Talents by SUMU – ‘Well planned and warmly designed, a welcome take on public internal space that focus on simple natural approaches over brasher interventions’