Radley College
Blending tradition and technology
Our major extension to the Grade II* -listed Radley College Chapel increased its capacity and secured its long-term role as the spiritual and cultural heart of the school. Working closely with the College and a specialist design team, we delivered a scheme that respects Thomas Graham Jackson’s original 1893 design while producing a building that is fit for purpose for future generations.
This multi-award-winning project combines architectural sensitivity with technical innovation. It benefits from an emphasis on early planning, collaborative funding, and the creative use of digital tools.
Efficient spatial design
Radley College Chapel holds a central place in the life of the school, both spiritually and architecturally. Originally designed by one of the most prolific architects of Victorian England, the chapel needed more room to accommodate the growing pupil body and evolving use of the space.
Our solution was an elegant east-end extension that created a new sanctuary framed by twin apses. This allowed a full reordering of the interior, enhancing sightlines, acoustics and liturgical focus – all without disturbing the original nave or west end. Purcell increased the seating capacity by 30% while preserving the historic character and spatial qualities of the building.
Traditional craftsmanship
Every part of the extension reflects the school’s identity and the legacy of the original chapel. Traditional craftsmanship played a defining role. We worked closely with a team from the York Glaziers Trust, creating 88 stained-glass panels that took 1,300 hours to design, fabricate and install. The oak-framed roof structure was a feat of precision joinery, incorporating 322 joints and more than 1,100 timber components.
The location of the chapel’s organ was moved from the north elevation back to its original position in the West Gallery and Purcell worked with acoustic and organ specialists to enhance the auditory experience. The new organ was built by Nicholson and Co from Malvern, comprising 2,660 pipes, from pencil-sized to over 20 feet. A new roof lantern featuring 64 panes of double glazing fills the chapel with natural light to complement the upgraded sound.
Purcell used Building Information Modelling (BIM) to interrogate the design in detail, reduce risk, and futureproof maintenance. The BIM model continues to support long-term facilities planning at Radley.
Masonry in numbers
87
different types of bespoke brick
70m³
of finished stone
20,000
hours of labour
A collaborative approach to planning
Given the chapel’s Grade II* listed status and sensitive setting within the school’s historic grounds, securing listed building consent was a key milestone.
Given the chapel’s Grade II*-listed status and sensitive setting within the school’s historic grounds, securing listed building consent was a key milestone. Purcell and planning consultants Edgars worked closely with the local planning authority and Historic England from the earliest design stages.
This early engagement ensured a well-informed, collaborative approach to planning, helping secure timely approvals and smooth delivery. Our detailed heritage assessments and 3D visualisations supported our vision, demonstrating how the proposed intervention would enhance the significance of the listed building.
The Chapel extension was made possible through a combination of philanthropic funding and trust in Purcell’s heritage expertise. Close collaboration with the College and a shared commitment to quality were essential in delivering a scheme that met fundraising ambitions and delivered long-term value.
– David Anderson, Estates Bursar, Radley College
Team
- Josh Greig Associate Partner
Details
- Client Radley College
- Team Oxford Studio
- Location Oxfordshire
- Country United Kingdom
- Listing Status Grade II*
- Photography Nick Kane; Dan Paton
Awards
- RIBA National Award Won 2023
- RIBA South Building of the Year Won 2023
- RIBA South Conservation Award Won 2023
- Brick Awards: Supreme Winner Won 2022
- Brick Awards: Craftmanship Won 2022
- Brick Awards: Contractor's Choice Won 2022
- World Architecture Festival Awards Shortlisted 2023
