Reuben College, Oxford

The Challenge

• Grade II listed buildings with timber and metal single-glazed primary windows that could not be changed due to listed status and conservation area location
• Needed to preserve the original architectural character while improving thermal and acoustic performance
• Large windows had thin, single glazing and were poorly sealed, resulting in poor thermal performance
• Required a discreet, cost-effective solution to improve energy efficiency in libraries, study spaces, social spaces, and office areas
• Some windows featured arches and unusual shapes, presenting installation challenges

The Solution

A major renovation project by Morgan Sindall Construction involved combining and refurbishing the Grade II listed Radcliffe Science Library (the 1901 Jackson building and the 1934 Worthington building), the western wing of the Inorganic Chemistry sub-department, and the 160-year-old Abbot’s Kitchen, the oldest known purpose-built chemistry laboratory.

Secondary glazing was specified as the discreet, cost-effective and efficient solution to improve energy efficiency. Thermal insulation can be improved by up to 65%, helping to retain heat and reduce energy bills, while noise intrusion levels can be lowered by up to 80%, or 54dB, all without compromising appearance.

A combination of Granada Glazing’s Balanced Vertical Sliders, three-pane Horizontal Sliding Units, Lift Out Units and Hinged Units were installed. Slimline aluminium frames were powder-coated in a white satin finish to blend in with the interior décor.

Granada Glazing’s technicians overcame the ‘very challenging design and demanding architect requirements’ by ensuring that drawings issued to the client were ‘precise and to a high standard’.

The Oxford-based architects, fjcstudio said that secondary glazing enabled the windows to be upgraded while exposing the original details and maintaining their original means of operation. In addition, all the roofs were thermally upgraded and new energy efficient mechanical and electrical services fitted throughout. These measures not only improved the thermal and environmental performance of the building, but they also help to extend the useful life of the building and protect the important heritage fabric.

Morgan Sindall’s Senior Site Manager, Joel Oswin commented: “Some of the windows have arches and unusual shapes, which presented some challenges. However, the appearance of the secondary glazing looks very good, and it blends in very well.”

A further challenge presented during the refurbishment involved the removal of over 800 tonnes of asbestos-contaminated materials and mercury, a legacy from the buildings’ former use as science laboratories. The successful adaptation of the buildings in creating a new facility for students earned Reuben College the 2024 Oxford Preservation Trust Green Award. The Preservation Trust commented: “The project sets a new standard for the sustainable adaptation and re-use of historic buildings.”

Reuben College was also named the winner of the Low Carbon Project of Year Award at the OxProp Festival Awards 2024 in recognition of the sustainability achievements delivered through the refurbishment project.