The new center for Middle Eastern Studies at St Antony’s College was designed by the award-winning Iraqi-British Architect Dame Zaha Hadid. As one of her last projects before she passed away in March 2016, this project has been recognized by many for its architectural merit and nominated for numerous awards.
It recently won the RIBA (Royal Institute of British Architects) South Award 2016. Oxford University asked Chris Lewis Fire and Security to provide the best possible intruder alarm, CCTV and access control systems for the center. The team designed and installed an integrated security set-up that would keep the building safe, whilst also enabling students and staff freedom to come and go with ease.
Ongoing expansion program
St Antony’s College is internationally recognized as one of the foremost places for post-graduate studies. Founded in 1950, the college buildings are a mixture of architectural styles, with some dating from the early Victorian era (when they were originally used as a convent); and other buildings completed during the 1960s and 70s.
St Antony’s commissioned Dame Zaha Hadid to create its new Middle East Centre in 2013
As part of its ongoing expansion program, St Antony’s commissioned Dame Zaha Hadid to create its new Middle East Centre in 2013 and turned to Chris Lewis Fire and Security to fit a modern and discreet security system. Their sister company Chris Lewis Smart Home worked with them on the design and installation of lighting, audio and video conferencing systems for the center’s lecture theatre.
Educational privacy practices
The college were looking for a security expert they could rely on to:
- Provide the best equipment available
- Devise and install a system sympathetic to both new and traditional elements of the building
- Would understand and comply to the needs of the college – safeguarding the building and correctly following educational privacy practices
Personnel proximity cards
- Galaxy Intruder Alarm System
- Axis CCTV System
- Salto Access Control System
The Axis mini-dome CCTV cameras are small discreet and incredibly powerful
By liaising closely with the engineers and designers, the teams at Chris Lewis Fire & Security and were able to deliver a security system that works in harmony with the building. Listening to the needs of the college and providing a secure and sympathetic solution for a very modern building.
The Galaxy Dimension integrated intrusion and access system delivers flexible round-the-clock protection with graphical touch-screen control and remote servicing. This easy-to-use installation gave maximum security and free movement within the college with personnel proximity cards. The Axis mini-dome CCTV cameras are small discreet and incredibly powerful.
Compact dome cameras
Outdoor ready, HD and 360 degree panoramic view – these compact dome cameras produce megapixel video quality without interfering with the architectural aspects of the college.
- World class dual purpose lecture theatre
- Excellent relationship with Chris Lewis Fire and Security
- Project completed with minimum disruption to staff, students and visitors
- Work delivered on time and on budget
“Your company has provided an invaluable service to us so keep up the good work and I will look forward to doing more business with you in the future.” Oto Velicka, Maintenance Manager, St Antony’s College.
