Exeter College Dining Hall, Oxford – Plaque Winner at the 2026 Oxford Preservation Trust Awards
We are proud to announce that Exeter College Dining Hall, Oxford has been recognised as a Plaque Winner at the 2026 Oxford Preservation Trust Awards in the Building Conservation category.
Working alongside Jessop and Cook Architects, dpa lighting consultants developed a lighting scheme that enhances the functionality of one of the college’s most important communal spaces while revealing the rich architectural and historic character of a building that has stood at the heart of Exeter College since 1618.
The award recognises the sensitive restoration and conservation of the Grade I listed Dining Hall, which continues to serve as a focal point of college life, accommodating everything from daily meals and formal dinners to ceremonies, celebrations and academic events.
Our lighting design was conceived to support these diverse functions while uncovering layers of history embedded within the hall’s historic fabric. Concealed uplighting washes the soaring timber roof in a warm glow, drawing attention to the craftsmanship and scale of the structure. Linear light traces window reveals and stone mullions, revealing the rhythm and geometry of the architecture, while subtle accents bring carved bosses, gargoyles and other intricate details into view.
Discreet, adjustable spotlights illuminate the hall’s portrait collection, carefully balanced to bring each figure to life without overwhelming the wider space. Additional layers of light highlight the high table, gallery, crest and fireplaces, enriching the atmosphere and helping to tell the story of the hall and its evolution over more than four centuries.
The scheme has been designed to transform seamlessly throughout the day and across a variety of uses. Warm-dim light sources and discreet spotlights allow the hall to move effortlessly from intimate candlelit dinners to grand ceremonial occasions, creating an atmosphere that is both welcoming and memorable while respecting the historic setting.
By combining modern lighting technology with a sensitive conservation-led approach, the project enhances the experience of students, fellows and visitors while preserving the character of one of Oxford’s most historic collegiate interiors.
We are proud to have worked with Exeter College Oxford, Jessop and Cook Architects, and Darke and Taylor on this award-winning scheme and congratulations to all involved on this well-deserved recognition.
Richard Bolt – Partner at dpa lighting consultants comments: “dpa were delighted to support the OPT Awards which places particular importance on building conservation, in which the Exeter College Dining Hall project is an exemplary example. This is a special moment for us, having the opportunity to craft architectural lighting design into this historic space, bringing to life the portraits and restoring character and charm for visitors and users to enjoy.”
Client: Exeter College, University of Oxford
Architect: Jessop and Cook
Electrical Contractor: Darke and Taylor
Photography: dpa lighting consultants