On Friday 25th April, the APEC team had their first staff outing of the year to… Oxford!
Together, we admired the cobble streets, vivacious greenery and the hotpot of architectural styles the city had to offer.
The day started bright & early, with our first visit to the classic Natural History Museum, trailing through to the Pitt Rivers Museum. A first for some APEC members, the museums are a relic of history and culture, displaying an array of monuments from betel nut cutters to a fossilised tree trunk – a highlight for some!
The 19th century Neo-gothic architecture of the Natural History Museum (designed by Deane and Woodward) stood strikingly against the cast iron and glass roof in the central space. Mirroring the symbolism of tree species and botany, the cast iron columns have ornamental and intricate glazed detailing throughout. Another stark contrast was the journey from the NHM to the PRM, one distinguishing the different forms of life and the other documenting and embracing it. We explored the museums over the span of some hours, and it was truly fascinating to see the volume & peculiarity of the displays.
En-route to our second spot, we got to immerse ourselves in the vernacular of the Oxford streetscape whilst basking in the sun – all 16 degrees of it! From modern glazed extensions on heritage builds, to narrow, hidden streets with corner pubs, green walls and spiral stairs – the city was a delight to meander through.
Our next stop was Christ Church Cathedral. Dating back to the 11th century, the cathedral is a striking example of gothic architecture and was remodelled/restored in the 19th century by Sir George Gilbert Scott. The cathedral itself was set on stunning college grounds, whilst boasting a collection of incredible stained glass windows and an intricate stone-vaulted chancel ceiling. The team really enjoyed sauntering through this building; having worked on listed buildings in the hundreds, it was lovely to see some unique architectural details.
Our last stop of the day was Bishop Edward King Chapel, designed by Niall McLaughlin Architects. Set in the quaintness of Cuddesdon, the chapel was completed in 2013 and was shortlisted for the RIBA Stirling Prize in the same year.
Upon our first steps towards the elliptical building, the patterned facade stood out against the mellow, scenic background. Once inside, the overarching glu-lam frame (supporting the roof) stood proudly, against the smooth, plastered walls. The lime-wash finish of the walls alongside the concrete details created contrast to an otherwise neutral material palette.
There was a picturesque feature window, with simple, wooden benches as part of the furnishings, almost decorative to the nave. The oak finishes throughout the building created an ambience of peace, and it was very clear what the design intentions were for this scheme – exuding tranquility.
With that, the APEC day out concluded. Special thanks to Dave Baldock from the APEC team for organising the itinerary for day!
