Library and Study Centre, Oxford

Wright & Wright Architects for St John’s College Oxford
Contract value: undisclosed 
GIA: 1,780m² 

The new library and study centre is a pioneering sustainable design targeting net zero carbon in the challenging grade I listed Baroque setting of St John’s College Canterbury Quad. It meets student need with a variety of social and study spaces that are naturally lit and ventilated, well-connected to the outdoors and ergonomically designed. The project addresses two challenges; creating a highly insulated new, sustainable academic facility alongside a radical reimagining, restoration and retrofit of a complex set of listed buildings that have all been made fully accessible. The highest standards of detailing and craftsmanship were sought to achieve both.

See the rest of the South shortlist here. And all the RIBA Regional Awards shortlists here.