Master's Field Development

Oxford, South East

Civic Trust Awards Citation

The Master’s Field Development, comprising eight purpose-built student accommodation buildings and a central pavilion with recreational facilities, has made a positive impact on both the university and local community. 

The project seamlessly integrates into the existing student residences, forming a cohesive and visually appealing ensemble. Bold architectural choices, such as the use of a system-built approach with brick-faced pre-cast panelling, set the project apart. The repetitive plans for the residential accommodation, while common in this typology, showcase the ingenuity required for system-building. The brick-encased precast panels contribute to a rich and repetitive detailing, adding aesthetic value to the structures. The southwest corner, with its embrace of a majestic existing beech tree, creates a captivating court, with a glimpse to the NW to the green sward of the cricket pitch. This spot is university design at its best and the core of the project. The involvement of Balliol College Bursars and facilities team throughout the project reflects a commitment to meeting the college’s requirements. The inclusion of a squash court at the basement level, a nod to the college’s needs, underscores the attention to detail. The outward-facing blocks significantly enhance the public spaces, providing views of Balliol College through strategically placed gates, improving the overall streetscape. 

Internally, the design prioritises student well-being, offering well-lit common rooms, kitchens, and bedrooms. Natural light permeates throughout the scheme, contributing to a positive living and studying environment. The energy-efficient buildings not only benefit the college’s operational costs but also align with sustainability targets, showcasing a forward-thinking approach. The interconnectedness of buildings through carefully landscaped areas, coupled with the openness around the cricket pitch, maintains a sense of cohesion and open space. The project has transformed the local environment with extensive planting and visually appealing façades, contributing to a pleasant atmosphere for both residents and passersby. 

Beyond the academic year, the facilities, including the cricket pavilion, are utilised by Balliol College and other teams they play across the university and more widely. The pavilion is available and widely used for meetings, conferences and events with the college hosting many visitors who all get to experience the spaces and stunning planting provided through the scheme.

Judges’ Comments: “The Master’s Field Development leaves a lasting positive imprint on the university and the broader community alike.”