The Mitchell Building (Photo: Ellie Walpole)

University College’s Mitchell Building lift has been shortlisted for an Oxford Preservation Trust (OPT) Award 2026. The OPT Awards celebrate excellence in design, historic conservation and sustainability across Oxford.

This year, the awards received entries from local architects, community groups, developers, public authorities and academic institutions across Oxford, showcasing an even-increasing commitment to sustainability, accessibility and community.

It was announced today that 30 projects have been shortlisted across six categories, with Univ’s Mitchell Building lift being selected for the Adaptive Re-use Shortlist. This category recognises projects that sensitively balance contemporary requirements with heritage significance, creatively reimagining and revitalising Oxford’s existing buildings for modern life. Other shortlisted entries in the Adaptive Re-use category include projects from a number of other Colleges as well as the redevelopment of St Margaret’s Church.

The new Mitchell Building lift was completed earlier this year, providing greater accessibility to the upper floor of the building, which is home to the Weir Common Room (WCR). The Mitchell Building is located behind the Old Library on the College’s High Street site. It was opened in June 1971 and was named in honour of Sir Harold Mitchell (1919, History). You can read more about the history of the Mitchell Building here.

The award winners will be announced at the Oxford Preservation Trust Awards Ceremony on Wednesday 4 November at St John’s College.

Published: 5 October 2026

Explore Univ on social media