Culture

The project involved the creation of a new Archive and Study Centre, alongside the development of an office space, by partially demolishing and refurbishing existing farm buildings. The design provided specialised archive storage, archivist accommodation, and a unique reading room, all while integrating extensive external remodelling and landscaping.

Key features of the Archive Centre included passively controlled storage facilities designed to preserve delicate documents and materials. The reading room, one of the most striking elements of the project, featured an Oak Grid Shell structure and full-height structural glazing, offering visitors stunning views of the Chiltern Hills.

In line with the client’s sustainability goals, the project incorporated renewable energy sources, such as geothermal heating and solar power, ensuring energy efficiency throughout the facility. Selway Joyce provided full Quantity Surveying services throughout the project, ensuring cost control and successful project delivery from tender to final account.

The project involved the infill of an internal lightwell at the Ashmolean Museum to create a new, environmentally controlled gallery space specifically designed to house and exhibit a significant collection of Chinese paintings and artefacts. The new gallery required precise control of lighting, temperature, and humidity to protect and preserve sensitive materials, while also meeting the architectural and curatorial standards of the museum.

Quantity surveying services were provided throughout the project, from early cost planning to final account.

The Waddesdon Exhibition Centre underwent a comprehensive programme of restoration and refurbishment. Selway Joyce managed the full scope of works, including strip-out, asbestos removal, installation of new flooring, M&E upgrades, and external works.

Sensitive heritage elements such as original cornices and skirting were retained and restored with the help of specialist contractors. All interventions were guided by the need to respect the historic character of the building and its relationship with the surrounding neoclassical estate. Cost control and reporting were delivered through to the final account.