Conceived as the permanent home for the Oxford India Centre for Sustainable Development, this 700m² project enhances academic provision and residency through a suite of flexible rooms: 10 tutor offices, 2 seminar suites, collaborative study spaces, and an adaptable event lobby, all connected to the existing campus.

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Architecturally, the Ratan Tata Building is a bold and sensitive intervention, with curved façade design inspired by Oxford’s classical streetscapes. It balances historic context with sustainable contemporary design, using materials and massing that complement surrounding landmarks. Sustainability is central to this project; the building is designed to achieve net zero operational carbon and incorporates Passivhaus principles within a fabric-first, high-performance envelope. Features include high insulation, air-tight construction, and an efficient MEP specification targeting energy minimisation without overt certification claims.

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As part of etch’s experience, the Ratan Tata Building highlights innovation in educational environments with ambitious sustainability targets, contemporary architecture, and a commitment to enhancing the College’s values of resilience, inclusion, sustainability, and excellence.

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