Focus

The cool cafe that comes with a Cambridge college attached

By 2024-04-10T06:00:00

01 WWM Clare College credit Philip Vile 0365

Source: Philip Vile

Witherford Watson Mann managed to carve out a niche cafe from a sliver of land on the side of Clare College’s Old Court and in so doing improved facilities, increased accessibility and revitalised some historic buildings, Ben Flatman reports

To many visitors, the historic core of Cambridge remains seemingly unchanging. Dominated by university and college buildings, the city is sometimes reminiscent of an open air museum. While undeniably beautiful, this world of hushed cloisters and manicured lawns can also appear off-putting or even stultifying to some.

Finding the balance between maintaining their traditions, while ensuring the ancient quadrangles remain vibrant and living spaces, is an on-going challenge for the colleges. Many have sought to create new amenities that they hope will appeal to new and more diverse audiences.

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