Oxford West End

This project involves the development of a set of design codes for the proposal of a mixed-use site, primarily residential, in the West End of Oxford. The process begins with a new vision for the site that looks to integrate it with the natural surroundings and promote healthy lifestyles in an energy efficient community. Based on the new vision, a S.W.O.T. analysis of the original masterplan is conducted in order to identify positive and negative aspects of the plan, which inform a set of design actions. These will look to play on the strengths, deal with the weaknesses and threats, and make the most of the opportunities that the site offers. The design actions have been taken into account in the development of a design code, which establishes design guidelines and standards for blocks, plots, buildings, open spaces and energy efficiency mechanisms. Application of the design codes to the original masterplan has produced a revised masterplan that delivers the reworked vision.

In relation the the wider Oxford area, the proposed site is 0.6 miles from the city centre, and 0.6 miles from the railway station, each being around 12 minute walks. It is located alongside the railway line, close to the River Thames and accessible from the A420 (Oxpens Road).