Student Residential Design Tips from Studio Anyo

Designing student residential buildings requires careful consideration of the specific needs and preferences of the student population.

At Studio Anyo, we have worked on many projects in the student housing industry, including our Bankside, Paris Gardens, and Riverside Student Quarter properties. Why not check out our portfolio to see more.

In every project, we always take care to tick every box and create student accommodation that combine style, substance, and sustainability.

This can be tricky, and that’s why we’ve created this guide on some key aspects to consider when designing student residential buildings.

Lets take a look.

Student Residential Design Tips

Functional Layout

Create a layout that maximizes space efficiency and promotes a sense of community.

Consider incorporating common areas, such as lounges, study spaces, kitchens, and recreational areas, where students can interact and socialize.

Additionally, provide private spaces for individual study and relaxation, such as private rooms or study nooks.

The key is to provide the best of both worlds, so if a student wants some quiet time, there is a place for them, but when work is over and it’s time to socialise, this should be accommodated too.

Safety and Security

Prioritize safety and security features throughout the building.

Implement secure access control systems, surveillance cameras, well-lit common areas, and emergency evacuation plans.

Ensure that fire safety measures are in place, including smoke detectors, fire extinguishers, and clearly marked exit routes.

Safety is key in any building, and student residential properties are certainly no exception. If somewhere feels unsafe, then it may not be an enjoyable experience living there and this could impact the students wellbeing.

Comfortable Accommodations

Design student rooms to be comfortable and functional.

Optimize the use of space by including built-in storage solutions, study desks, and comfortable beds.

Consider soundproofing measures to minimize noise disruptions and always provide adequate lighting, ventilation, and heating/cooling systems to create a pleasant living environment.

Students spend a lot of time studying, working, and living in their accommodation, so it needs to be somewhere that provides the perfect environment for them to do this.

Community Spaces

Incorporate spaces that encourage interaction and foster a sense of community.

This could include communal kitchens, dining areas, multipurpose rooms, fitness centers, outdoor seating areas, or recreational spaces.

These areas allow students to socialize, collaborate, and form connections with their peers.

One thing you must remember is that for many of these students, this is the first time they have left home and they may get feelings of loneliness or alienation if there isn’t the space provided for them to meet people and become part of the community.

Amenities and Services

Offer amenities and services that cater to students’ needs.

This may include laundry facilities, Wi-Fi connectivity, study rooms, on-site maintenance staff, bike storage, or package delivery areas.

Consider incorporating sustainable features such as energy-efficient appliances, water-saving fixtures, and recycling facilities.

These can be really impactful on the students living there, and will often adhere to many of their views which will make it much more pleasant to live there.

Accessible Design

Ensure that the residential building is accessible for students with disabilities.

Incorporate features such as ramps, elevators, accessible bathrooms, and designated parking spaces.

Adhere to local accessibility guidelines and regulations to ensure inclusivity for all students.

This is a vital point and needs to be considered in the early stages of the design process as it is absolutely integral and may require extra planning and permissions.

Technology Integration

Embrace technology throughout the building design.

Provide high-speed internet connectivity, charging stations, and smart home features that allow students to control lighting and temperature settings.

Consider incorporating technology-enabled security systems and digital communication platforms for efficient resident management.

Technology can play a big part in making a place functional and eco-friendly, so don’t be afraid to add something new which will make life for the inhabitants a little bit easier.

Flexibility and Adaptability

Design spaces that can be easily adapted to cater to evolving needs.

Consider flexible room configurations that can accommodate different group sizes, such as converting common areas into study spaces during exam periods.

Design furniture and fixtures that can be rearranged or replaced as needed.

It is always a good idea to have a mix of different sized areas that can cater for different numbers of people living together. This way you can cater for any size group and always have the right space available.

Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility

Incorporate sustainable design principles to reduce the building’s environmental impact.

Utilize energy-efficient lighting, appliances, and HVAC systems.

Integrate renewable energy sources such as solar panels.

Use environmentally friendly materials and promote recycling practices within the building.

At Studio Anyo, we always practise modern methods of construction which helps us target carbon-positivity.

Being able to create buildings that are not just designed for now, but also for the future, is always rewarding and something that is important to us, especially when it comes to designing student residential buildings.

Aesthetics and Branding

Create an attractive and visually appealing design that aligns with the branding and identity of the educational institution.

Consider incorporating elements that reflect the local culture or architectural context to create a sense of place and identity.

Not all student residential properties are the same, and this should be shown in the interior and exterior of the building.

If you can create somewhere that stands out and really makes a statement, it is going to be much more interesting and exciting to enter on your first day of university.

Student Residential Buildings from Studio Anyo

By considering these aspects, you can design student residential buildings that promote a positive living experience, foster community engagement, and support students’ overall well-being and academic success.

Want to know more about how our team at Studio Anyo can help? Then get in touch today.