The small but mighty mitre

Strolling down Turl Street, Oxford, one will be forgiven for missing the small side entrance to Lincoln College's student accommodation colloquially known as the Mitre. This is about to change with the introduction of a porter's lodge sandwiched between two Grade 2 listed buildings. Crafted from Clipsham Limestone, it will provide a single point of entry to the student accommodation beyond.

Envisioned as a barrel vault by TSH Architects, the entire depth of the building will be vaulted with the barrel being formed by a series of keystones. An added level of complication was introduced by the first floor having a reinforced concrete floor which complicates works sequencing on site substantially. Apart from the stone barrel vault, the entire building will be clad in stone requiring a thorough understanding of stonework executed in contemporary detailing.

Solid Structures were appointed by OG Stonemasonry as specialist structural stone facade designer for this prestigious project. Benfield & Loxley is the main contractor for the project.