The Hilda Besse building at St Anthony’s College, Oxford, one of the country’s best examples of Post-War architecture, has been refurbished by award winning architectural and heritage consultancy practice Purcell. As part of a sensitive renovation to enhance the original architecture and ensure the building’s sustainable future, Junckers solid wood flooring was fitted in the famous dining hall and adjacent servery. Informed by historic drawings and photographs, Purcell specified a dark wooden floor, reverting to the original finish found in the building. Junckers Black Oak plank flooring was fitted in a bespoke geometric pattern, complementing the elaborate ceiling features.
Part of the refurbishment and conservation work included improving the building’s sustainable performance as well as the wellbeing of staff and students. A solid hardwood floor from Junckers is one of the most sustainable flooring surfaces. Junckers has completed EPDs for its wooden floors to ensure all elements of the supply chain, from raw material sourcing to production and distribution, adhere to strict sustainability standards. Wood is naturally low in embodied carbon and can easily be recycled at the end of its long life.