Portswood Road Student Accomodation
Working in collaboration with VITA Student, Footprint Architects were employed to redesign the Hub area and private apartments for a new student accommodation block.
The project focused on transforming the Hub area and individual apartments into welcoming, contemporary environments that support student wellbeing and reflect the diversity of modern university life.
By combining thoughtful spatial planning with high-quality, sustainable refurbishments, the scheme promotes both independence and community, providing a setting that feels both inclusive and aspirational for international students settling into their new academic journey.
Sustainability
The project successfully repurposed a poorly performing student accommodation block into an efficient, functional space. Refurbishing non-functional aspects and designing lasting facilities.
Context & Place
Understanding the student experience was fundamental in ensuring prolonged user enjoyment. The integration of key amenities for both communal and private activities reinforce the design’s practical and welcoming nature.
People & Communities
The redesign prioritises ensuring a high-quality environment that improves student wellbeing and day-to-day experiences, nurturing a sense of connection within the student community.
Improving Student Experience through Tailored Spaces
The open-plan, modern design has integrated facilities that allow users the independence to adapt the space in accordance with their specific needs. Featuring study areas, cinema space, common rooms and lounging areas, as well as dining and gym facilities to ensure all aspects of entertainment are catered for. By addressing student’s needs and comfort, this design was aimed to provide students with the full university experience.
The proposal also included the redesign of student living spaces, presenting four different styles of rooms that felt like a welcome home to new residents. Using small space storage solutions as typically seen in student rooms alongside our signature sleek design style, we created purposeful and practical living spaces that would promote the wellbeing and engagement of its users.
Designing a Sustainable Refurbishment
Through methods such as maximising natural light and improving ventilation systems, great consideration was paid when choosing sustainable renovation techniques. The project focused on regeneration of previously ineffective spatial design, as opposed to demolition and reconstruction, a much eco-friendlier approach. High ceilings are exposed aiding natural ventilation by absorbing stale air.
Creating Appealing Atmospheres
The atmospheric qualities of the spaces stand out, with contrasting finishes creating both warmth and vibrancy. Dark tones paired with light wood and natural light achieve a sophisticated, homely ambiance, while the use of biophilic principles enhances emotional well-being. The emphasis on natural light and biophilic elements like wood and foliage aligns with modern sustainability practices and highlights our commitment to eco-friendly design.
By incorporating a variation of amenities, there is a huge range of activities that students can enjoy during their time at Portswood House, ensuring round comfort – both communally and in private lodgings.
Promoting Community through Design
By designing mature, independent residences connected by vibrant, shared hubs, we aimed to cultivate a sense of belonging. The thoughtful acknowledgment of the unique challenges foreign students face, coupled with facilities that encourage community engagement, enhances the social dimension of student living.
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Get Your Project Off The Ground
Get in touch today to kick-start your project. Let us know a few details and we’ll be in touch to discuss bringing your vision to life. Or call us on 01202 818 966