Fathom Architects

Previous project:

Medical Research Institute, Oxford

  • LocationOxford
  • UseEducation, Research
  • ClientUniversity of Oxford
  • Size3,900sqm / 42,000sqft
  • Date2016

Concept for a world class medical research institute at University of Oxford, including laboratory, offices, café and roof gardens.

This detailed feasibility for The University of Oxford provides a world class medical research institute including laboratories, departmental and administrative offices, a café and roof gardens.

Faced with a restricted plot offering reduced visibility, on an already intensively developed site, we embraced the tropical nature of both donor and research, designing a building under a ‘canopy’ of trees which allows it to be discovered easily from any approach.

An undulating floor edge and expressive canopy creates a striking central circulation space which encourages interaction between the five departmental occupiers. Externally the theme continues with roof terraces and sunken gardens abutting established trees.