Selecting the right architect for an Oxford College
What we did
Mansfield College (Oxford) is undertaking a once-in-a-generation project to build new accommodation and teaching space on its 125 year old campus, assisted by Development Managers Stories. The choice of architect was important for the College and we used our deep sector knowledge to set up and run a competition to find the right party. We undertook the following work, in close collaboration with Stories:
Leading a workshop with the College to establish their drivers and aspirations for the building and the architect
Reporting on most appropriate competition format
Longlisting architects, including bespoke interviews with smaller, less known firms
Leading a further workshop with key stakeholders to arrive at a competition shortlist
Devising competition questions and evaluation method
Participating in interviews and other evaluation including site visits and written/drawn submissions
Presentating to various College forums including Governing Body
“Selecting the right architect for our ‘once-in-a-generation’ project was a critical decision for Mansfield College. Claire was empathetic and listened well to many stakeholders from the start, and the competition process she then guided us through was both rigorous and enjoyable. We are very happy with our choice”
