Nestled within Oxford University’s historic estate, Lady Margaret Hall is defined by its vast footprint - a beautiful, layered tapestry of contrasting architectural styles. San Stae was privileged to be appointed by the university to develop a comprehensive, site-wide design framework for the college. Our brief is twofold: to provide creative direction on material appropriateness that will thoughtfully reverse decades of interior neglect, while simultaneously delivering the complete interior renovation of the college's primary entrance spaces.

To design for a heritage environment of this scale, we first had to immerse ourselves in its history, uncovering the narrative threads left by the site’s five original architects. Our focus turned deeply toward the Deneke Building, designed by Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, the visionary behind Battersea Power Station. Through archival research and field studies of his surrounding works, our studio has been deconstructing his core aesthetic principles, translating his historic architectural language into contemporary application.

We are also working directly alongside the college’s Keeper of the Pictures to review and integrate significant artworks from the permanent LMH collection. Rather than treating art as an afterthought, these historical pieces serve as the literal conceptual starting points for our designs. Every new installation, lighting scheme, and hanging system is being carefully considered to respect the site's original vision and heritage status.

This phased, considered restoration is gently anchoring the campus for the future - ensuring the estate is beautifully restored, cohesive, and ready to celebrate its milestone 150th anniversary in 2028.