It is an example of French-Renaissance-style architecture in the United Kingdom, having been modelled on French chateaus such as Château de Chambord.

It was designed by the architect William Henry Crossland, and inspired by the Château de Chambord in the Loire Valley, France.

[2] The Founder's Building houses the Picture Gallery, containing a collection of over 70 pieces of Victorian era art given to the college at the time of its founding by Thomas Holloway.

Founder's is home to one of the university's lecture theatres, the non-denominational chapel, and the reading room, which is open to students 24/7.

The original building plans as well as photographs at the time of completion are available for viewing in the Royal Holloway archives.