Bonn Square

Bonn Square lies at the junction of four busy streets in Oxford city centre. At the end of the 20th century, it had become tired and run down. As part of a wider initiative, the City Council held an ideas competition, which was won in 2005 by Edinburgh-based Graeme Massie Architects. The original square was elevated above the adjacent street level by virtue of being over an ancient graveyard. Originally the site also contained three mature trees and a 2 metre high boundary wall to a listed church. Bravely, the architects have regraded the square, to make access easier, and dispensed with the trees and the wall. The space has been pragmatically and thoughtfully paved and detailed with quality materials. Custom designed street furniture, using bronze-aluminium alloy, have also been commissioned as part of the scheme. A noble and dignified project that reflects the city's character and heritage.