Founded in 1326, Oriel College is Oxford’s fifth oldest college. Shortly after its foundation the ‘Foundation of the Blessed Virgin Mary’ was given a property called ‘La Oriole’. This building stood on the site of the current day First Quad, and gradually the college became known as ‘Oriel’.

Oriel College’s main site is located in the heart of Oxford, near the High Street and the city’s historic centre. It is part of the University of Oxford and is situated close to other prominent landmarks such as Christ Church and the Radcliffe Square.

On 22nd July 1786 Lord Leigh of Stoneleigh in Warwickshire left his library to Oriel College in his will. Such was the quality of this donation a new building was required to house this extensive collection. The college turned to the architect of the time James Wyatt. Wyatt had recently completed the Canterbury Quad at Christ Church and had worked extensively across Oxford. The site chosen for the library was the north side of the College Garden, effectively forming a new quad. The building contains two Senior Common Rooms on the ground floor held within a rusticated arcaded plinth. Above on the piano noble is a lofty library space, defined by an ionic arcade.

Some 240 years later the now Grade I Listed Senior Library is in need of some repairs, and careful upgrades. College have turned to OA to lead this process. The roof needs replacement and some of the stonework is badly spalling and requires attention. Internally the spaces are tired and require careful conservation works. A planning and Listed Building Consent application is due to be launched imminently following a successful round of consultation with statutory consultees.