From dingy to desirable: Changing the perception of student accommodation

Debbie McCreath cropped

Debbie McCreath on how student accommodation has evolved from basic lodgings to vibrant communities

Long gone are the days of dingy student digs with dim lighting, draughts, hard-worn carpets, linoleum, tired furniture, and shared bathrooms. The landscape of student accommodation has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past few decades. Purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) today has evolved into a vibrant typology. Operators and developers are now delivering high-quality accommodation with bright, well-lit spaces, modern décor, and innovative bedroom designs, coupled with generous amenities. These well-thought-out spaces help create a community and provide a safe and secure place for students to call home. However, lingering memories of older student housing may still hinder perceptions of the sector, as many remember student accommodation as it was during their own university days.

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