Anyone who went to university in the last 20 years knows the realities of cheap, nasty student accommodation. From shared bathrooms that never got cleaned to converted bathrooms that were now bedrooms with extraction fans, we’ve all heard the horror stories and know how dire the state of student housing can be.
Thankfully, modern students are raising the bar. The days of shabby furnishings from bargain basements and student housing that got decorated once every decade, if at all, are long gone. In the age of TikTok and Instagram, students are seeking properties that aren’t just a roof over their heads, but also a fashionable abode where they can be themselves.
Therefore, over recent years, student housing has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from basic dormitory-style accommodations to cutting-edge living environments that cater to the diverse needs and preferences of today’s university students. As the demands of higher education and student lifestyles have evolved, so too has the design and concept of student housing.
These are interesting times for the student housing landscape, and could herald great change over the years to come. Here are some of the top trends in student housing in 2023 and how they are changing the market moving forward.
Inclusivity Is Key
Inclusivity, and the ability for everyone, regardless of their background, to enjoy shared experiences is a key focus for today’s students. As a result, there’s an increasing demand for inclusive student housing that caters to students from diverse backgrounds. As part of this drive towards greater inclusivity, many developers are considering adding accessibility features for students with disabilities and creating inclusive living environments that respect different cultures and identities. That could include adding ramps and accessible bathrooms to student housing and providing space for prayer for those who might need it. These solutions help to attract a wider range of students and make it easier for those with unique needs to move away from home and into student accommodation.
Living Spaces Are Back
When designing student housing, property owners want to get the most from their space as possible. To achieve this, many developers have repurposed lounges and communal areas into more bedrooms or bathrooms to accommodate more students. However, as rents rise, students are seeking housing that provides them with more than just somewhere to sleep. They are seeking a shared experience which can only be found in a property with a living room and other shared spaces, like a dining room. As you can see from this selection of student accommodation options in Nottingham, communal spaces are a great way to entice tenants and potentially earn more from each room available. Providing these social and recreational spaces fosters a sense of community and enhances the overall living experience for students.
Developers Look To Add Value With Wellness Spaces
If there’s one thing we got from the COVID-19 pandemic, it is a focus on wellness and an eagerness to ensure that we stay healthy in both body and mind. To meet this need, some student housing designs now prioritise mental health and wellness. Spaces for meditation, yoga, or mindfulness exercises are becoming more common, especially in luxury accommodations and large blocks of communal student housing. Additionally, incorporating natural elements like green spaces and biophilic design elements can have a positive impact on students’ well-being and are simple additions that many developers are exploring.
Student Housing Embraces Sustainability
As is the case in many markets throughout the consumer landscape, there is an increasing focus on eco-friendly and sustainable student housing. Developers are using green building materials, energy-efficient systems to improve efficiency, as well as incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels. Sustainable design appeals to environmentally conscious students and can also potentially lead to cost savings over time. It also helps providers to highlight their commitment to the environment and their dedication to making the planet’s valuable resources last longer. As the demand for eco-conscious living continues to grow, sustainable student housing will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the market and fostering a generation of environmentally conscious individuals ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
Property Developers Consider Public Transport Options
As well as sustainable property practices, many developers are focusing on ways to embrace public transport. To encourage sustainable transportation practices, many new student housing properties are being strategically located near public transportation hubs and college campuses. This proximity reduces the reliance on private cars and promotes the use of greener transportation alternatives, such as walking, cycling, or public transit. Some student housing communities even offer bike storage facilities and electric vehicle charging stations to further support sustainable commuting options.
Smart Student Housing Is The Future
We’ve all heard of smart housing technology, and while it wasn’t that long ago that it was a thing for sci-fi movies, it has a quickly become a reality. To keep up with the wider housing market, many student property developers are incorporating advanced technologies to enhance the living experience. Some of the common smart home features used in many student accommodation buildings include mobile apps for managing utilities and services, keyless entry systems, high-speed internet, and smart appliances. Integrating these technologies not only attracts tech-savvy students, but also improves efficiency and security. These tools save time and resources for facilities managers, so they can be a valuable addition to any student property.
In Conclusion
Overall, these trends demonstrate how the student housing market is evolving to meet the changing needs and preferences of modern students. Developers and operators who adapt to these trends are likely to stay competitive and attract a larger share of the student population seeking comfortable, convenient, and enriching living experiences during their university studies. For the property market, these changes represent a shift in the way we see student accommodation. With student rental prices high and continuing to increase, it’s clear that tenants in these properties are looking for value and quality. Providers need to rise to the occasion to ensure that they remain relevant in this fast-paced market.
