Tyndale House, Cambridge

Tyndale House is an international centre for research into the Bible. It houses one of the most significant library collections for biblical studies in the world, containing around 47,000 volumes covering all subjects associated with the language, culture and manuscripts of the Bible. However, the library building was built almost 70 years ago and was cramped with not enough shelving or study carrels. It was dark, draughty and cold in the winter and stuffy and hot in the summer. It did not have the space or capacity to install modern IT equipment.

Through the pre-app process SP&D explained the deficiencies with the existing building and gained support for a new building which doubled the floorspace on the site, with the scale disguised by including a basement and extending the footprint to the rear where it was not visible. We worked particularly closely with Conservation Officer to ensure that the design respected its sensitive surroundings. We also worked closely with the Tree Officer to get their agreement to remove some trees whilst preserving the most important lime trees. We invited neighbours in to see the plans so that we could explain it to them directly and address any concerns they had.