Issue 46 April 25 web - Flipbook - Page 99
vs. Anti-Scrape’ debate led directly to SPAB’s founding
in 1877. Ironically, Morris, an Exeter College alumnus
along with Edward Burne-Jones, designed stained glass
roundels installed in the library’s ground-floor windows
during the same period.
ulous attention to detail ensured seamless integration of
heritage and modernity, creating a space that is both
inspiring and functional.
Nex's leadership was confident, collaborative, and
inclusive, balancing a strong design conviction with a willingness to listen, creating a positive culture within the design team and other stakeholders that proved integral to
the project's success.
Scott's restoration principles-embracing modern methods
and returning buildings to an idealised original state-align
more closely with ICOMOS guidelines than the strict
preservation advocated by Morris. Our reimagining of
the link block was perhaps more aligned to Scott’s approach. The area, extensively altered over time, offered
an opportunity to significantly improve circulation and
accessibility.
The impact of the project has been profound. The Library
sits at the core of the College community and it can now
respond to the needs of its users, reflect Exeter's aspirations and contribute significantly to the wider academic
and social fabric of the College, embodying the principles
of inclusivity and sustainability.”
Previously, library entry was disruptive to readers, with the
upper floors inaccessible. We proposed a new, clearly expressed main entrance in this link block, fully transforming the internal circulation. On the elevation to the
Fellow’s Garden, the new entrance needed a distinct yet
complementary identity to reflect its importance. Drawing
inspiration from Scott's unusual blind colonnade on the
first-floor, we introduced a contemporary pointed arch
crafted from layers of finely carved Clipsham stone. A discreet sliding door set into the left-hand side of this stone
frame, illuminated by a single lantern, subtly nods to
Scott’s original architectural language.
Alan Dempsey & Joe Dent
Behind this contemporary entry sits a newly introduced
primary circulation spine, housing an accessible WC,
stairs, and a lift servicing all four library levels, making it
fully accessible for the first time. The lift shaft, constructed
from prefabricated timber panels, is clad externally in bespoke contemporary cast iron referencing the pattern on
Scott’s Chapel campanile. Circular rooflights with
dichroic glass fins add a playful, colourful connection to
the historic Morris & Burne-Jones stained glass.
Access around the exterior was thoughtfully developed
with Todd Longstaff-Gowan, including a subtly integrated
ramp linking the library to the replanted Rector’s Garden,
enhancing both accessibility and biodiversity.
Conclusion
The refurbished Exeter College Library sensitively
integrates restoration and innovation, revealing Scott’s
architectural genius while introducing beautifully crafted
contemporary elements. At the library opening,
celebrated author and alumnus Philip Pullman described
the transformation as "Tardis-like," using technology
creatively to maximise every square inch.
We are immensely proud that the project surpassed the
College’s ambitions. Reflecting on the outcome, our
client, Bursar Babis Karakoulas, shared:
"Nex's understanding of heritage buildings was exemplary
and its design highlights the best of Sir George Gilbert
Scott's work, revealing it in new ways while introducing
beautifully crafted contemporary additions. Their metici
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