Sir – The recent packed public meeting in St Barnabas Church on the Blavatnik building in Walton Street seems unlikely to have changed anyone’s view on the desirability of the building.
The University and developers (these terms are interchangeable) gave a very slick performance, as one would expect, but it was very much ‘Here it is, like it or not you are going to get it’ approach.
The Swiss-based architects seemed blind to the view that if a new building is surrounded by treasured (and listed) old buildings the new building should reflect the existing prevailing architectural style, rather than insult it by erecting a glass block alien in materials and form. A question as to why a neo-classical design had not been chosen was met with a reply going into some detail about window construction. This implied that there was a complete lack of understanding by the architects as to why anyone could object to their creation.
It is perfectly possible to create a modern and striking building which respects the surrounding urban framework; one only has to think of Minster Towers in EC3 or the Judge School in Cambridge as outstanding modern buildings. The Blavatnik School fails to respect anything and will be a leading contender for the hotly-contested title of worst building in Oxford.
In its heart of hearts the University knows that the design is not worthy of a city such as Oxford. The University has already blotted its recent copybook by the appalling student blocks overlooking Port Meadow and a return to the drawing board could produce a more acceptable design.
I am sure Mr Blavatnik will not withdraw his millions because of a little delay and his reputation could be enhanced rather than cursed by future students and citizens.
Paul Hornby, Jericho Watch, Oxford
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