Houses for Visiting Mathematicians

The Houses for Visiting Mathematicians comprise five houses and two flats arranged in a circular layout around a central green space. Ground floor rooms combine living areas with kitchens and study bedrooms, while upper floors contain additional sleeping quarters and bathrooms.

Construction began in 1968 with backing from the Nuffield Foundation and finished in 1969. The project arose as part of efforts to support mathematical research in Britain.

The spaces are designed to bring researchers from different backgrounds together for work and discussion. Curved study walls show how much the place centers on daily exchange between mathematicians.

The buildings sit on Gibbet Hill and are visible from the road but can only be viewed from outside. The area is walkable for those interested in seeing the circular arrangement and architectural features.

Study rooms feature curved walls lined with blackboards, letting mathematicians work out calculations and discuss ideas on the spot. This innovative design won the Royal Institute of British Architects Award in 1970.

Location: Coventry

Inception: 1969

Architects: William Howell

GPS coordinates: 52.37540,-1.55051

Latest update: December 14, 2025 11:04