All Souls College - energy improvement works

For many Oxford Colleges improving historic buildings to provide comfortable, up to date and energy efficient accommodation, is a growing priority. Respecting the fabric of the building and managing the work to minimise disruption to building occupants is essential.

At All Souls College, Beard completed a £122,000 programme of energy improvement works to the Grade I listed Front Quad, which will contribute important reductions to heating bills and CO2 emissions.

The work has involved internal upgrades to staircases IV and V, dating from the mid 15th century, which provide accommodation and offices for College Fellows. The team refurbished windows, doors and roof spaces to improve insulation and reduce draughts.  Over-lining walls and ceilings has also helped improve the thermal performance of rooms adjoining stairs that remain open to the outside air.

“The team did a great job to complete this project in just eight weeks over the summer vacation. The various thermal improvement measures should make the building more comfortable and contribute to overall energy savings for the college,” said John Youle, Construction Director, Beard Oxford.