We were tasked with the refurbishment of a student accommodation block for Hertford College, Oxford. This included 76 bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms and communal area over a period of 6 phases.
The college were keen on making the rooms feel more homely for the students whilst still remaining durable and suitable for the out of term time conference guests.
The entrance area was space that was not used by students, and did not offer a welcoming feeling to guests. This was something the college were keen to change in order to create a social space during term time, as well a setting the precedence for the rest of the building for conference guests.
Key Project Stats: 56 bedrooms, 6 Kitchens, 8 bathrooms, communal areas and reception.
” Thank you so much for work you have done on the block. The students love their new rooms and they are also making full use of the reception area now – which is really great. “
Domestic Bursar, Oxford
We were keen to keep the college identity present in the student rooms so we took inspiration from the college crest. Red is the prominent colour for the college, therefore this was the reoccurring colour throughout all the rooms. We rang the changes by alternating the curtain colour from red to grey with the contrasting upholstery.
The colour scheme flowed into the communal area, with the addition of a piece of bespoke art work resembling the college crest created from laser cut metals.
The most important requirement for the furniture was that it would withstand years of use as well as being homely. We therefore chose bedroom furniture which comes with a 20 year ‘student proof’ guarantee, made from real wood veneer carcasses and dovetailed drawers for maximum strength.
The need for heavy duty components was especially relevant for the kitchens due to the strain they are put under during term time. We therefore specified kitchens with 170 degree hinges and moisture resistant laminate tops. The edges were then finished with contract specification lacquer to ensure that the doors were sealed from the effects of damp, water and heat.
