The transformation of Oxford’s historic Weston Library into a modern environment for academic research and specialist learning.
RIBA Stirling Prize Shortlist 2016
Civic Trust Award 2017
AJ100 Building of the Year 2016
AJ Retrofit Awards Listed Project 2016
Oxford Preservation Trust Awards 2015
The Weston Library is a vital resource for academic research. Part of the University of Oxford’s world-famous Bodleian Library, the Grade Il listed building was originally designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott in the 1930s. By the Millennium, however, the building had become outmoded and in need of an upgrade. Recognising this need, the Bodleian appointed WilkinsonEyre to remodel the library as a new cultural and intellectual landmark.
A key focus of our work was revitalising existing facilities through modern interventions that renewed both function and sense of place.
This included high-quality storage for the library’s valuable special collections, additional space to support advanced and specialist research and expanded public access to its treasures through new exhibition galleries.
Chosen materials work in harmony with one another, creating moments of surprise and delight. From reflections of collections in glass to the juxtaposition of old and new stone.
We collaborated with designers and makers to realise bespoke commissions, including the creation of the ‘Bodelian Chair’ a new timber chair, used to furnish the ground floor and shared learning spaces.
