Rafael Viñoly Architects’ Post

Over a decade after its completion, I was delighted to join Dr. Keith Gillow on a visit to our scheme for the Mathematical Institute at the University of Oxford. Having been personally involved since the earliest stages of the Radcliffe Observatory Quarter Masterplan and leading the third (and final) design iteration of this complex faculty building through its planning approval - I received the most positive balance of UX satisfaction, sustained performance and proven durability from our clients - who proudly describe the building as one of the best in the University. This RIBA award-winning scheme always derived from the idea of a single collaborative environment, designed to adapt to the continued growth of Mathematics and its various disciplines. Its architectural gesture linking views from and into the Tower of the Winds (Radcliffe Observatory), validating the essence of our Masterplan. Its two atria expanding visual connectivity across floors and into the lecture hall basement, via two ‘crystals’, themselves conceptualised by the academics based on mathematical formulae. The unwavering efforts of all our colleagues from Rafael Viñoly Architects (past and present), who made the delivery of this world-class facility possible. Huge credit to Dr Gillow, Funders (Clay Mathematics Institute in particular), Estates Directorate and User Groups at the Institute and wider University, for walking this journey alongside us at RVA and the amazing technical & construction teams involved. #architecture #highereducation #universityofoxford #rafaelvinolyarchitects