Home living at the Oratory School

As Project Architect for Gerry Lytle Associates, Roger Barefoot led the concept design, technical design, contract administration, and site management for The Oratory School in Woodcote, Berkshire. The client was The Oratory School, with the work comprising the delivery of new boarding accommodation and the sensitive restoration and maintenance of a historic chapel. The boarding house project, valued at approximately £4 million, created boarding rooms for young pupils and accommodation for the house master. Roger coordinated the project from design development through technical delivery, ensuring the accommodation supported the school's operational needs and provided a suitable environment for residential life. Alongside the boarding houses, Roger managed the approximately £120,000 restoration of a 17th-century Old Chapel. The work required a careful approach to conservation, maintenance, and the recreation of historic detailing, balancing the protection of the building's character with the practical requirements of its continued use. Roger's responsibilities covered concept design, technical design, contract administration, site management, construction coordination, and communication with the school and project team. This was his first project with full oversight and contract administration responsibilities as a Project Architect, providing a significant step in his professional development. The key challenge was managing the differing technical, operational, and conservation requirements of new boarding accommodation and a sensitive historic building within the same school environment. Both projects were completed in 2004 and remain operational, supporting the school's residential and community life.