TWO new buildings at St Antony’s College, in Woodstock Road, were officially opened on Tuesday by the businessman and diplomat they are named after – His Excellency Ghassan I Shaker.
The £11m buildings provide a new main entrance and porters’ lodge as well as 54 en-suite study bedrooms, offices for college staff, and meeting and work space within glazed rooftop pavilions.
Professor Margaret MacMillan, warden of St Antony’s, said: “This is a hugely important project for the college both in terms of the increased accommodation, and the related income stream it brings us.
“But it also gives us a new identity that enhances the confidence and pride among Fellows, staff and students.
“We are delighted with the design and the quality of the finished product and are sure that the Gateway Buildings will greatly aid us in what is becoming an increasingly competitive global market for post-graduate education.”
The building uses Cotswold stone, bronze and walnut and has been designed to echo Victorian houses in the area and the main building, which is a former convent.
It also provides St Antony’s – which was established in 1950 – with an enclosed quadrangle for the first time, which is something that many other colleges are able to boast.
Ghassan I Shaker is a Saudi Arabian diplomat and businessman who is an honourary fellow of St Antony’s.
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