Julian Bicknell Associates - Architecture of Fine Quality

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NEW ORGAN MAGDALEN COLLEGE CHAPEL, OXFORD

In 1982 N P Mander Ltd were commissioned by the College to design and install a new organ, better suited to the high musical standards of the College's Chapel Choir and the architectural character of the historic building. The Chapel dates from the College's foundation in the 15th Century, but has been extensively refitted over the centuries, most recently in the early 19th Century by John Cottingham who designed the finely carved stone screen and reredos in a refined Gothic style.

Julian Bicknell was asked to design the casework for the new organ, which has three departments: the pipework of the 'Principal' department is housed in the remarkable stone casework of Cottingham's screen; the 'Echo' and 'Pedal' departments are mounted in the new oak case, whose design responds to the detail and atmosphere of the building with its vigorously articulated forms, elaborate geometries and rich carving.

The organ is designed and built to the most exacting musical standards with a traditional mechanical action and no false pipework. The design successfully solves both the musical and architectural problems. The organ was completed in 1986 and is frequently used for BBC broadcasts.

Julian Bicknell & Associates is a London based architectural practice of thirty years standing, specialising in quality buildings, interiors and landscapes - mainly in classical or traditional style. The practice has worked for private clients and developers all over the UK and in Japan, Russia, the USA, Morocco, Germany and Kazakhstan. The work includes spacious country houses, luxury homes on the prestige estates at Wentworth and St. Georges Hill, museums, restaurants, theatres, schools, a golf club and modifications to important historic buildings. The design philosophy combines a deep sympathy for traditional design and building methods, with a full understanding of energy strategies and construction management. The practice works closely with other professionals and experienced craftsmen to achieve low-energy buildings of real quality within predetermined budgets.