Some may not think “good design” equates with student housing. The typical off-white walls, outdated furnishings and harsh fluorescent lighting seem better suited for a prison than a university. Dormitories designed in the seventies are grossly outdated and uninspiring, especially to students growing up in this technological age.
Bringing fresh and modern design to student housing has several benefits to students and the school community, including:
• Attracting prospective students Appealing design will speak to the senses of students on campus tours. The inviting spaces will help visitors realize that this school values its students and how they live their lives outside of the classroom. The cutting-edge layouts will convey the college’s dedication to forward-thinking and a desire to attract the best and the brightest.
• Building a student community The University of California San Diego recently proposed a goal of having 50% of their students live in campus housing to strengthen the student community. They are tackling the goal with sustainable building practices and sleek, minimalist spaces that will attract students to live on campus. Building a college community is especially valuable in large cities, where students may feel a disconnect living in one of the thousands of apartments off campus.
• Keeping up with technological advances The student housing of yesteryear cannot keep pace with the rapid change in technology. High-speed internet connections, high-tech labs, flat-screen TVs, state-of-the art workout rooms and much more require facilities that are ready and able to support the increasing technological demand.
• Adhering to sustainable practices Colleges and universities are doing their part to cut down on energy usage in order to protect the environment and cut costs. Older buildings can be retrofitted to take advantage of sustainable practices. For instance, low-flow water fixtures can be installed in restrooms or a wall of windows can be designed to increase solar heating capacity. Moreover, “green” building components can act as teaching tools for students studying engineering, design, environmental science as well as other areas.
According to our president, René Pabon, “Bringing a distinct and modern style to student housing should not be an afterthought. Nothing can invigorate the mind more than a stimulating and well-crafted environment.” The students of today demand more from their surroundings and it is about time they receive it. A functional yet sophisticated approach to student housing design can give students the room they need for collaboration, the technology they require to complete their work and stay social, and the inspiration they desire to grow into the problem solvers of tomorrow.
The Childs | Dreyfus Group 