Overview
Situated in the heart of Oxford, The Clarendon Estate reimagines 2.5 acres of prime commercial, retail, and residential space as the city's largest public square: Clarendon Square. Envisioned by Roy Sebag and Quinlan Terry CBE, this landmark development invites residents and visitors to live, work, and shop while immersing themselves in the vibrant living history of Oxford.
The Clarendon Estate: A New Chapter in Oxford's Story
The Clarendon Estate embodies a philosophy of timeless design and human-centered urban planning. Drawing inspiration from Oxford's iconic streets and its famed "dreaming spires," the project is deeply rooted in the principles of classical architecture, where proportion and detail are celebrated. Each structure will be built of locally sourced materials by employing traditional craftsmanship, creating a sense of permanence that resonates with the city's heritage while meeting the demands of modern life.
Clarendon Square: The Heart of the Community
At the heart of the Estate will be Clarendon Square, an 18,000-square-foot public space designed to enrich community life. Inspired by Oxford's historic courtyards and collegiate squares, this vibrant hub will offer a space for social connection, relaxation, and cultural engagement. Carefully landscaped and pedestrian-friendly, the square will become a dynamic setting for residents and visitors to shop, dine, and play, serving as an inviting stage for Oxford's daily rhythm.
A Vision of Cohesion and Balance
By weaving together a variety of architectural styles and materials, the development avoids uniformity while maintaining an overarching coherence. Each element contributes to a unified vision: streets and pathways that invite exploration, squares and courtyards that foster intimacy, and interiors designed to uplift the spirit. The balance between beauty and functionality is achieved through meticulous attention to detail, from the scale and light of the spaces to the graceful curvature of facades, integrated with verdant landscapes, encompassing trees, lawns, fountains, and open green spaces.
Sustainability and Legacy
Guided by a commitment to sustainability, The Clarendon Estate is designed to stand the test of time. By prioritising permeability over density, walkable spaces over car dependency, and natural materials over fleeting trends, the development embodies principles that are as environmentally conscious as they are enduring. This dedication ensures a vibrant and resilient community for generations to come.
A Celebration of Oxford's Spirit
More than a development, The Clarendon Estate is a living tribute to Oxford's character, a place where tradition and innovation coexist in harmony. It reflects the city's ethos of intellectual and cultural dynamism, offering spaces that inspire creativity, foster belonging, and celebrate the art of living. From the carefully proportioned walkways to the thoughtful mix of shops, restaurants, and offices, the Estate invites people from all walks of life to gather, linger, and flourish.
Project Summary
| Location | Oxford City Centre OX1 3HB |
| Practical completion | Scheduled for late 2027 |
| Size | 2.5 acres |
| Developer | GP Clarendon Square Limited |
| Lead Architect | Quinlan Terry Architects LLP |
| Supporting Architect | Riach Architects Limited |
| Civil & Structural Engineer | Price & Meyers LLP |
| Planning Consultant | Carter Jonas |
| Heritage Consultant | Donald Insall Associates |
| Landscape Architect | Askew Nelson Ltd |