An Oxford college has undergone a major refurbishment, thanks to guidance from Cambridge architects.

University College on the High Street had a new two-storey extension of the buttery in the Master’s Garden, had its access facilities enhanced and its kitchen and stores modernised.

The £2.5m scheme was designed by Cambridge-based Freeland Rees Roberts Architects and has taken two years to complete.

The college kitchen is set in the south range of the buildings constructed in the early 17th century with additions of the buttery, offices and storage areas over the last 150 years.

Henry Freeland, director of Freeland Rees Roberts Architects, said: “The form of the extension responds to the materials and scale of the existing 17th century buildings, while at the same time being modern.

“We were keen to use traditional materials, stone, timber and lead, and were interested in maximising the effects of good use of light and internal and external space.”

Domestic bursar Elizabeth Crawford added: “The scheme is sensitive to the surrounding Grade I listed buildings and historic fabric.

“The improvements have made a significant contribution to the operation and every day use of the college for students, staff and visitors.”