The search is on once again for Oxford’s most outstanding new buildings and conservation projects, as Oxford Preservation Trust launches its prestigious annual awards scheme for 2025. 

Now in its 48th year, the OPT Awards celebrate excellence in design, sustainability, and historic conservation across Oxford. This year, the awards have been refreshed with updated categories that better reflect the diverse and evolving projects shaping the city: Building Conservation, Adaptive Re-use, New Buildings, Public Realm, Green Spaces, and Community Impact.

This year we’re inviting greater participation in the Awards than ever before, with the new categories reflecting our commitment to sustainability and social impact. The new Adaptive Re-use category is open to developments which breathe life into Oxford’s existing buildings, adapting them for modern life while honouring their historic significance. And we’re hoping to attract a wide range of applications for the new Community Impact award. This will celebrate those projects which really benefit local people, including community-led activities, landscape projects and social housing.

Last year’s award-winners included the Jackson Library at Exeter College, a shining example of how innovative architectural solutions can ensure a design that is both sympathetic to its historic surroundings and beautifully executed. It seamlessly blends modern functionality with respect for George Gilbert Scott’s original design.

The awards are open to a wide range of projects, large or small, from exceptional new architecture and the conservation of historic buildings to projects that enhance the wider landscape or have a strong community focus. Whether an architect, owner, tenant, or neighbour, anyone can enter a project for consideration.

The OPT Awards 2025 are sponsored by Gravita, Mathews Comfort Insurance Brokers, and Carter Jonas. Without this support we would not be able to celebrate the positive contribution new projects make to Oxford’s unique character, streets and communities.