Preserving History with Modern Performance

Jordaya Contracting was appointed to carry out a sensitive and technically advanced lime renovation at Brasenose College, one of the oldest continuously inhabited buildings in Oxford. This iconic site required careful handling, with every decision balancing the protection of its historic fabric with the need for modern insulation and durability.

Upgrading a Historic Building

Working within such a significant and well-used building brought with it a clear responsibility — to respect the centuries of history while making the space fit for future generations.

We used a carefully selected range of materials designed for breathability, thermal performance, and long-term resilience. This included:

– Diathonite – a cork-based insulating render ideal for traditional masonry

– VPI through coloured lime finish – providing a long-lasting, maintenance-free finish

– Gutex wood fibre board – for sustainable external wall insulation

– Lime Green Solo – a high-performance breathable lime plaster

Each material was chosen for its compatibility with the building’s age, structure, and performance requirements.

The Result

The completed works have delivered a warm, breathable, and aesthetically sympathetic upgrade to Brasenose College. This project highlights our expertise in working on complex historic buildings and our commitment to delivering sustainable, long-lasting results.