UK Construction Online takes a closer look at Weston Library, which has been shortlisted for the RIBA Stirling Prize 2016.
The historic Grade II listed Giles Gilbert Scott building stands in the heart of Oxford’s historic core, previously known as New Bodleian Library and now known as the Weston library. A vital source for academic research, the brief was to open the doors of the library to the public, allowing them to embrace knowledge.
(c) James Brittain
The building also hopes to engage the public in activities inside with the creation of new spaces for a programme of exhibitions and seminars drawing on the special resources of the Bodleian’s collections.
(c) Will Pryce
The building is a building within a building, which left a challenge for architect WilkinsonEyre, who worked with clear reference points, highlighting items of most interest, using sensitivity and a clear understanding of the design intention of Gilbert Scott.
Another challenge was to protect the precious and rate documents stored within the archive, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
Gentle repairs were needed to the original fabric, while at the same time, Wilkinson Eyre were able to incorporate exquisite and bold interventions such as a spectacular reading room at roof level.
(c) John Cairns
When completed in 1940 with 11 storeys, it was and still is central Oxford’s tallest building.
RIBA said: “This previously dead corner of Broad Street has had new life breathed into it and a historic gem has been brought to life. The sheer ‘wow’ factor when entering stops you in your tracks and is an immediate reminder of what the building is about. All in one breath the spaces, the light, the use, the flow and circulation are apparent.”
To read more about the shortlist for the RIBA Stirling Prize 2016, click below.
Blavatnik School Of Government
Trafalgar Place – Elephant and Castle
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