Student Housing Design Archives - Page 2 of 3

How Lighting Affects Mood and Productivity in Student Housing

Good lighting can energize occupants and bring your space to life.

Intentional design requires an in-depth understanding of the residents of the property being designed. For student housing properties, developers need to create spaces that students want to live in—and spaces where they can thrive.

The concept of student housing has moved beyond the role of a basic need. Students are prioritizing properties that cater to their preferred lifestyles, with a focus on amenities and how their living spaces look and feel. Housing not only provides shelter and storage for belongings, but also contributes to the students’ quality of life.

Many elements can improve the ambience, mood, and productivity of student housing, but lighting holds a greater weight in interior design. Let’s take a closer look at the impact of lighting and how to incorporate it strategically.

Understanding Lighting and its Effect on Mood & Emotions

The colors and intensities of light can play a significant role in shaping how a space feels. Based on the lighting you choose, you can create environments that positively influence emotions, productivity, and overall well-being.

With this in mind, let’s look at the different types of lighting proven to increase learning and productivity.

Natural Lighting

Natural lighting from windows, doors, or skylights boosts mood, creativity, and brain function. When students are in a good mood, they’re better able to solve problems, remember information, and get along with others.

Be aware of glare from sunlight, as this can cause eye strain and discomfort. Adding sheer curtains or shades can balance brightness without reducing the benefits of natural light.

Warm Lighting

Soft yellow or amber tones create a cozy and inviting ambience. Think of a crackling fireplace with soft couches or chairs for socializing or curling up with a good book.

You don’t need fireplaces to evoke these feelings, though. Lighting in warm colors can do the trick while helping to build social connections and uplift moods. It works well for common spaces, such as living areas, dining rooms, or social spaces.

Cool Lighting

Crisp white or bluish tones boost alertness and concentration. It heightens focus, which makes it an ideal choice for offices, workspaces, or any setting where productivity is key. Cool lighting can also feel isolating, so it’s best to use it in areas where socialization isn’t a primary focus.

How Lighting Impacts Learning

Different tasks or needs require different amounts of lighting. For example, we only need a little amount of light to navigate through a room, but we require a lot of light to see words on a page. The eyes and brain require sufficient lighting to gather and process visual data, such as studying textbooks or researching information online.

Dimly lit environments make it harder to read or perceive objects, which makes it harder for the brain to learn. Students studying in poorly lit areas might struggle to focus or retain information. Or, they might miss key details altogether.
Aside from brightness, the type of light used can also impact learning. For example, research shows that fluorescent lighting contributes to off-task behaviors, such as daydreaming or talking. This type of lighting isn’t conducive to studying or focused work, even when it adequately lights a space.

Importance of Lighting Design in Student Housing

Students keep all hours, from classes throughout the day to all-night study sessions. As a beehive of activity that requires intense focus and productivity, the best lighting for these use cases is as natural and soft as possible, but bright enough to see clearly.

Light serves a purpose beyond visual effects. It has biological and psychological impacts that contribute to the well-being of students. Improper lighting can disrupt sleep cycles, lower cognition, and prevent students from getting the most from their studying.

Different types of spaces within student housing benefit from different types of lighting. Opting for an intentional lighting design rather than a one-size-fits-all allows designers to maximize the lighting scheme based on how the space will be used.

For example, lots of windows near entryways create a clean, bright look and a welcoming vibe during the day. Cool-colored lighting in study pods or conference rooms enhance focus and productivity for students when they need to study. Warm tones in dining areas and shared living spaces promote relaxation and socialization.

Dimmable light fixtures and bulbs with adjustable hues can also give these spaces more lighting options. Students or housing administrators can adjust the lighting scheme based on the time of day (and the fluctuations of natural light), how they’re using the space, or personal preferences.

Designing Lighting with Intention

Creating a balance of natural, warm, and cool lighting starts with an understanding of how the space will be used. Nuances in space utilization and its inhabitants enables intentional design—the extra mile that sets truly great properties above the rest.

Designing your next property with intention requires extra thought and effort. It’s not just about providing a basic need, but also tailoring environments to suit specific needs and be a place where people want to live.

Students have options when it comes to housing, and properties who anticipate students’ needs and expectations will have the best chance of attracting tenants and minimizing vacancies. Good lighting plays a key role in achieving these expectations, allowing you to create a space where students want to live—and boosting their productivity and ability to learn.

Creating Versatile Communal Spaces in Commercial Properties

Good design can help you win more tenants

Attracting tenants in student housing and multi-family properties is no cakewalk, despite the massive housing shortage. Property owners still need to work hard to fill units and create attractive places to live, and versatility in design can be a competitive advantage in this area.
Commercial properties need to be versatile, not only to attract residents, but to remain competitive in their market and stand out from competing properties. Aside from location and access to local attractions, on-site amenities are what residents look for in a new spot to sign a lease. Community spaces are a great way to distinguish the property and instill more value beyond the unit itself. A versatile design that uses common spaces allows a property to get the most out of its space and create an overall better place to live, work, and play.
Here’s how communal spaces play a role in attracting tenants and how you can create these spaces according to your target audience.

Why it is critical to have a diverse group of versatile communal areas

Communal areas in a commercial housing property give tenants more than just a place to lay their heads. When choosing something as important and essential as housing, today’s tenants want a place that feels safe, comfortable, and inviting. A home should contribute to and enhance their everyday lives, and communal spaces give them more ways to enjoy daily living.

Tenant expectations

Communal spaces go beyond basic housing. They create spaces where tenants feel connected, comfortable, and part of a community. It’s become more of an expectation rather than a feature that’s nice to have.

For students, they want places where they can socialize, study, and relax. And for families, they need places for children to play or enjoy recreation without having to leave the property.

A well-designed communal area can provide these experiences, adding value to the property and making it more attractive to potential tenants.

Diversity of needs and wants

Different types of properties attract different types of tenants, and shared spaces should be prepared to cater to all. Some tenants might want a quiet place to read, work, or study. Others may prefer a lively outdoor space for gatherings.

Knowing your target tenant audience and having a variety of common areas ensures that all tenants have a place that meets their needs and enhances their living experience.

Increased perceived value of the property

Single-family homeowners have the benefit of turning their space into whatever they want—a home gym, movie room, outdoor grilling space, or whatever the need may be. This allows them to enjoy the conveniences of staying home rather than going out, and renters are increasingly attracted to these prospects, too.

For student and multifamily housing, built-in amenities might include a communal chef’s kitchen, barbecue areas, gyms, swimming pools, or even spas. These amenities can help tenants save money compared to going out while adding value to the property.

What are great communal spaces and the versatility they provide?

Regardless of property type, today’s tenants expect certain amenities and spaces. Here are the most popular ones, along with why these spaces are must-haves.

Outdoor areas

Outdoor spaces, like courtyards, patios, or barbecue zones, give tenants a place to relax, socialize, or even exercise. They are especially important for tenants who want to spend time outdoors without having to leave the property. Outdoor areas provide a natural escape and create a sense of openness in urban settings where green space can be limited. Smartly planned outdoor spaces also help reconnect the property back to the surrounding community, creating a sense of belonging.

For students and families alike, these areas offer opportunities to unwind, meet new people, or enjoy outdoor activities right at home.

Fitness rooms

On-site fitness centers offer convenience and eliminate the cost of a traditional gym membership. Residents can work out when it works for them, which is especially valuable to working-class tenants who work odd hours or students on tight schedules.

Business centers or meeting rooms

With more people working and studying remotely, access to quiet, professional spaces like business centers or meeting rooms is essential. These rooms provide an environment for tenants to focus, hold virtual meetings, or collaborate on group projects. Making these spaces flexible for individual or group use also helps create value in these spaces.

Gathering areas

Any place where residents can gather and connect will elevate your property’s desirability. These might be kitchens, game rooms, or even “blank canvases” that residents can use however they wish. These areas serve as social hubs and give tenants more ways to enjoy their living spaces. Consider creating an amenity space unique to your tenant population. For example, if many of your residents are artists or musicians, having a space for them to create or work is valuable compared to what other properties might offer.

Tailoring Communal Spaces to Your Audience

Properties should also consider additional areas for their specific audiences to create well-rounded experiences. For instance, study rooms and coffee bars make sense for student communities, while multifamily properties may benefit from rooftop gardens and pet wash stations.

Student housing communal spaces

Property owners should adapt spaces for both study and social interaction. Furnish them with a variety of chairs, sofas, and tables so students can choose their level of comfort and social interaction.

Multi-family housing communal spaces

Family areas and game rooms encourage residents to connect with others. They serve as extensions of each tenant’s home and can offer them the luxury of more square footage without the upkeep. Many multifamily properties are home to children and pets, so keeping spaces family-friendly can help you attract long-term tenants.

Creating communal spaces that sell

Communal areas and amenities are not only considerate of your tenants, but they’re also better for maximizing space and your investment. When you cater to the lifestyles your tenants want and expect, these investments can become your most powerful marketing tool yet.

3 Ideas for Renovating Your Commercial Property to Increase Its Value

Enhance your property’s value & performance

How to keep your multi-family properties up to date and modern

Some designs feel timeless, like Frank Lloyd Wright’s Waterfall House or Grand Central Station. But for most student housing and multi-family properties, value and appearance can plummet in the absence of renovations. With design trends constantly evolving, it’s essential to keep your rental properties up to date and cater to modern lifestyles.

When you do, you can command higher rents and increase occupancy rates simply by being a place where people want to live, work, and play.

Maximize ROI through Strategic Interior Design

SouthPark Interiors specializes in commercial interior design for student housing and multi-family properties. We help you make a strong first impression and deliver on that impression in individual units and shared spaces.

Research suggests that with the right renovations, you can increase rental income by as much as 20%. Equally important, the satisfaction of improved living spaces boosts tenants’ overall happiness with their homes, which could mean they’re more likely to renew their leases.

As you’re completing renovations in your rental properties, consider how to infuse value from the start. We recommend considering the full package, from who your ideal tenant is to the property’s location and unique features, and then building your vision on these elements to make your space more attractive.

3 Ways to Add Value with Renovations

It’s essential to understand the market trends and value drivers specific to student housing and multi-family properties. We’ve done some of the homework for you and are sharing these three areas of focus:

1. Remodeling for Competitive Advantage

Renovations can differentiate properties from competitors—both in looks and function—provided the renovations cater to your residents’ preferences.

A better approach is to know your audience and choose the features they demand. For example, our project at Greene Crossing at the University of South Carolina took advantage of outdoor living space by adding roll-up doors in common spaces. We also included quiet study spaces, a game room, a meeting space, and a gym to cater to students’ busy and varied lifestyles.

Also consider renovations that help your on-site team run more efficiently; whether that is through renovating their office spaces, creating additional storage space, or repurposing rooms that are not currently being utilized correctly.

Some of these features might translate to a multi-family property, but overall they’re unique to college students and designed to attract this demographic. Keep your audience in mind when choosing amenities and design features to give your property a real competitive advantage.

2. Balancing Economic Factors with Renovation Strategies

Renovating a multi-unit rental property can be a costly endeavor, and not just because of materials and labor. Volatile costs of goods, supply chain disruptions, and ROI can impact renovation decisions, and contractors and property managers need to strike the right balance between their vision and what’s actually feasible.

Construction delays create a domino effect that racks up an expensive bill. You incur higher labor costs, disrupted operations, delays in receiving rent from your newly renovated units, and tenant dissatisfaction. You might face higher costs due to the need to extend rental equipment agreements. Expenses incurred by construction companies pass to the property owner, which could mean being unable to achieve your full vision due to higher costs than originally estimated.

Taking an adaptive approach to renovation strategies like we do at SouthPark Interiors ensures cost-effectiveness without compromising quality. We balance vision with realistic expectations, and an existing network of partners and vendors gives us plenty of flexibility and options to tweak a design if materials sourcing becomes an issue. Designing a vision based on your audience and current market conditions keeps projects moving forward.

3. Implementing Sustainable Renovation Practices

With design trends constantly evolving, it’s essential to focus on sustainable interior design that will prolong a property’s lifespan. This prevents you from having to constantly update your aesthetics and amenities due to them feeling outdated and rundown.

Sustainable design can also reduce long-term operational expenses, allowing you to capitalize on the full ROI of your design choices today. Rather than making major investments in new flooring, furniture, paint, and lighting every few years, you can extend the life of these elements several times over. This saves you money, reduces environmental strain, and continues to appeal to your demographic.

For example, in our Quarry Trail student housing design, we chose furniture, fixtures, and a layout that combines classic colors and materials. Elements like natural light and neutral colors never go out of style, ensuring a design that will continue to please for years to come.

Adding the Most Value with Professional Design Services

Renovations add value by building a competitive advantage, balancing economic factors, and implementing sustainable practices. It’s not about renovating for the sake of renovating, but truly improving daily life at your properties so you can become a place people want to live.

SouthPark Interiors takes a practical approach to marrying renovations with design, treating the final touches as a priority, not an afterthought. Explore our interior design solutions so you can reap the full benefits of your rental renovations and optimize your properties for maximum ROI.

How to Design Inspiring Student Housing

Intentional Student Housing Design

Students appreciate good design and the benefits it brings to their education.

SouthPark Interiors bears the distinguished honor of having designed some of the most beloved student housing properties near renowned universities. That’s because we appreciate that good design is for everyone. It has the power to inspire and unite us and contribute to a higher quality of life.

For busy students pursuing higher education, the need for good design has never been greater. Students need spaces that make them feel energized yet safe. They value opportunities to socialize and connect with others while also having alone time to study and recharge. The places in which they live contribute to these preferences, and interior design holds the solution to all of the above.

In this article, we’ll reveal:

The Impact of Interior Design on Learning

The physical environment in which students live and learn can have a significant impact on their overall well-being, along with their capacity for learning. For instance, elements like natural lighting, comfortable furniture, and good ventilation can help students concentrate and feel energized and motivated.

There’s data to support this idea. For example, studies show that a well-designed space can improve student performance by up to 25%. For students living where they learn, well-designed spaces must not end at the classroom but also include their dormitories or apartments.

Key Principles of Educational Interior Design

Having designed countless student housing communities across the country, we apply our proven design process, which supports learning, engagement, safety, and inspiration.

We give special consideration to the following:

Ergonomics and comfort: Comfortable seating and desk arrangements promote greater productivity, focus, and collaboration.
Color and aesthetics: Color choices and aesthetics influence mood and focus. Understanding the power of color psychology can also help property owners attract and retain student tenants.
Flexibility and adaptability: Students needs evolve throughout the day, and they demand a lot from their living spaces. Including versatile areas can accommodate different learning activities, from solo studies to group projects, club meetings and more.
Technology integration: Modern education requires modern technology, such as high-speed internet, Bluetooth devices, and charging ports, to name a few. Technology enhances the functionality of a space, making it more appealing to students because they can address multiple needs in one place.

Case Studies of Student Housing

Want to see interior design’s impact on student housing for yourself? Take a look at some of our most successful student housing projects.

The Ryder

Designed in 2021, the Ryder serves as home to more than 700 students. We designed this space to reflect a fresh California vibe, blending nature-inspired colors with rich wood textures and plenty of bright neutral space. Community is at the heart of this facility, with common spaces indoors, outdoors, and in between. The final product boasts a calm, laid-back atmosphere with fun sprinkled throughout in the form of accent walls, modular furniture, the on-site gym and bicycle storage, and of course the custom mural graphic wall.

Legacy on Rio

A drastic flip from the Ryder, Legacy on Rio in Texas boasts more of an industrial vibe with its shipping container-esque exterior and sharp lines throughout the interior. To make the common areas stand out, we focused on unexpected color schemes, patterns, and textures to bring out its unique amenities. Each space has its own theme, with no shape, line, curve, or color off limits. However, each design circles back to the next for a consistent theme throughout.

Adding Collaborative Spaces and Common Areas

Education isn’t always a solo journey. Even during individual studies, students often seek the help and collaboration of others to fill in knowledge gaps and make learning more engaging.

Collaborative spaces provide a platform for students to work together, share ideas, and problem-solve collectively. They also help create a sense of belonging among students, especially in college settings where there’s a large population of international students.

SouthPark Interiors has extensive experience in transforming common areas to facilitate group work, discussions, and creativity. When given access to well-designed collaborative spaces that foster inclusivity and collaboration among peers, barriers are broken down. Students become more willing to contribute their ideas and engage in meaningful dialogue.

The Role of Community Input

No student housing design is fully successful without input from the student community. Students and staff who will be relying on the spaces being created should help inform the design process.

Some ways you can gather feedback and input include:

Sending surveys to students living on and off campus
Taking live street polls
Creating an SMS text program for input

As evidenced by our two strikingly different communities, Ryder and Legacy on Rio, it’s clear that student housing doesn’t require a one-size-fits-all approach. It’s essential that designers consider what makes a student population unique and how to best help them thrive.

Creating Stronger Student Housing Communities

Designing inspiring learning environments isn’t just about being known as the “cool place to live.” It’s about nurturing the whole student, from physical needs like housing to socialization and educational well-being. Interior design can achieve these and more through thoughtful color choices, ergonomic furniture, flexibility, and technology that come together to optimize the living and learning experiences.

At SouthPark Interiors, we push the bounds of creativity in student housing to create dynamic environments that will help students thrive. Contact us today to learn more about our commercial interior design services and how you can inspire today’s generation of learners.

The Walk Starkville: A SouthPark Interiors Design

Project Spotlight

Meet the Designer Behind The Walk Starkville

As her most recent project at The Walk Starkville is underway, our designer, Ashley Harris, walks us through her process. In this project spotlight, we cover:

Mississippi State University students are getting an upscale housing option in Starkville, MS, and our team could not be more excited about the new build. Unlike any other property of its kind, The Walk Starkville promises to be light, airy, feminine, and a little unexpected.

Masterfully designed by Ashley Harris, our team sits down with this interior designer to pick her brain about the project. From inspiration to execution, she shares all of the highlights from The Walk Tuscaloosa’s sister build.

What is The Walk Starkville?

Located in Starkville, MS, The Walk Starkville is SouthPark Interiors most recent ground up student housing design project. Following in the footsteps of its sister build, The Walk Tuscaloosa, this all-new student housing property offers the same youthful, fun feel with its own special twist.

Meet The Designer

Ashley Harris

Taking the lead on this project was interior designer, Ashley Harris. While Ashley has been with SouthPark Interiors for nearly four years, her design expertise spans far beyond that. From the Legacy on Rio to The Walk properties, she strives to bring unique designs to life that delight and surprise.

How The Walk Starkville Came to Be

We asked Ashley all about how The Walk Starkville came to be. Here’s what she had to say about her design process:

Inspiration

“The Walk properties all have a really unique, fun, young, and special feel to them,” she explains when asked what inspired her for the project. “They certainly have a brand direction that includes bright pops of color and a very feminine feel overall.”

Drawing inspiration from SouthPark Interiors’ original designs at The Walk Tuscaloosa, Ashley was able to make this new addition to The Walk family of properties feel equally on-brand and unique.

“I was also inspired by some of the newest trending color palettes this year, which really kicked off the overall design of The Walk Starkville,” she says.

Vision

While trending colors were an important part of the initial design process, Ashley is quick to point out that timelessness is key.

“Although the trending color palettes inspired the design, I always find it most important to design a space that is timeless. You want to make the resident feel at home, yet also like they are living luxuriously — which can sometimes be a hard juxtaposition,” she states.

Execution

When creating the vision for the space, Ashley focused on including highly unique design features, furniture, and art pieces that could set the property apart from its competitors.

“I like to focus on each amenity separately so that they each really feel like their own unique place to hang out,” she explains. “Of course, the overall design is always looked at holistically — but providing very unique designs in each amenity makes them feel even more upscale.”

For instance, the spa and sauna areas of the space are clean, bright, and luxurious while the fitness center feels dark, edgy, and masculine.

Luxury Amenities Make The Walk Starkville Stand Out

Amenities play a huge role in the decision-making process for students looking for an apartment. As such, Ashley made sure to include highly desired and unique amenities for The Walk Starkville.

“It is truly geared towards college students in what amenities are included,” she reflects. “Not many properties have a ‘pre-game’ room, a spa/sauna, or a golf simulator!”

Thanks to Ashley’s design know-how, student residents at The Walk Starkville will enjoy:

Luxury indoor spa
Green room
Outdoor cross-fit fitness area
Resort-style pool area with gaming greens
Gaming lounge
Indoor golf simulator and lounge
Study and coworking lounge

The Walk Starkville will officially open late summer 2023. Until then, students can get a sneak preview of what to expect by following the property on Instagram at @thewalkstarkville.

Want to develop a stand-out student housing property like

The Walk Starkville? SouthPark Interiors has helped countless student housing developers create stunning spaces for student residents throughout the United States. Allow our team to help execute your vision by requesting a consultation today!

How Social Media Influences Student Housing Design in 2022

The Latest Social Media Trends Affecting Student Housing Design

SouthPark Interiors principal, Lisa Pulsinelli, recently presented at NAA Apartmentalize in San Diego on the topic of social media’s influence on student housing design. In this blog, we highlight:

How the COVID-19 pandemic helped shape social media design trends
How social media determines design success or failure

The most innovative interior design trends for student housing in 2022

How social media impacts the leasing process

It’s no secret that social media has a stronghold over society. With more than 3.6 billion social media users worldwide as of 2020, these platforms have the power to influence virtually every aspect of our lives — including interior design.

Especially for younger generations, living in a space that’s “share-able” on social media is of the utmost importance. Not only is it critical for students to have an Instagram-worthy living space, but student housing owners and property managers can leverage these design trends to attract new tenants and increase profitability.

Pandemic-Induced Design Trends & Social Media

While nearly all schools are fully open across the United States following the COVID-19 pandemic, nationwide shutdowns from 2020 have still made a huge impact on what residents need from their living spaces. Some of the most popular pandemic-induced design trends to arise on social media include:

Outdoor Gathering Spots: Whether it’s a rooftop lounge, resort-style pool, or outdoor kitchen, residents are longing for the opportunity to spend time outside now more than ever.
Multi-purpose Community Spaces: One of the biggest changes that the pandemic brought was the need to stay at home, making it necessary for student housing properties to create multifunctional community areas for their tenants that can be used for community events but are also flexible to be set up for private study or co-working spaces. With more people permanently working from home, designers have to consider creating additional working spaces throughout a property in unconventional areas like the mail room and outdoor courtyards for example.
Bespoke Amenities: Creating an amenity space unique to your property based on your target resident and local culture is massively impactful. For example, if the property is in a music centered neighborhood or university, you may include a music room where residents can listen to a collection of vinyl records and jam out with friends. Or if you’re in a technology based environment, a podcasting studio is an attractive and unique amenity to prospective residents.

How Social Media Determines Design Success or Failure

Social media’s power of persuasion cannot be underestimated. Property managers can infer what’s popular and what’s not simply by checking how many likes/shares a photo receives of a student housing interior. Photos that don’t receive much attention might tell a property manager one of two things: 1) The image hasn’t been properly optimized to reach the most amount of people, or 2) the design may not resonate with current or future tenants.

Top 3 Most Innovative Interior Design Trends for Student Housing in 2022

By keeping their finger on the pulse of what their tenants are sharing on social media, property managers will be better able to tailor their amenities to their residents’ needs and desires. The following are just three of the most innovative ways that student housing managers have capitalized on emerging interior design trends seen on social media:

Sustainability: Whether it’s incorporating biophilic design with live and faux plants, including ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, or offering electric vehicle parking spaces, eco-friendliness has become a top priority for student housing property managers seeking to show residents that they care about the environment.
Artwork: Students long for spaces that are quirky yet thoughtfully designed using murals and other eye-catching pieces from local artists. Finding ways to incorporate local art is an excellent way for student housing properties to make room for more “Instagrammable” moments.
Comfort: From cozy fire pits to Japandi inspired fixtures and furnishings, one of the biggest interior design trends to emerge for students is the importance of comfort. Incorporating soft textures, private gathering areas, and minimalist design cues is a must.

How Social Media Impacts the Leasing Process

Social media doesn’t just impact the way student housing property managers think about interior design. It also affects the way prospective residents experience the property before ever becoming tenants. The property’s presence on social media is often the first impression made on residents. According to recent studies, 56% of students review a community’s social media when making a decision on where to lease, citing the ability to get a better idea about what everyday life is like there.

Photos and virtual tours have become increasingly important for tenants scoping out potential properties. It is absolutely necessary for property managers to think about their social media presence as an extension of the photos and virtual tours offered through their website if they want to be competitive. This will incentivize property managers to keep up with their social media accounts while also attracting the attention of new tenants.

Keep Your Student Housing Property Trending on Social!

At SouthPark Interiors, our team understands what students want from their living spaces. From two-story slides in the apartment lobby to rooftop party lounges, our team doesn’t just build student housing properties — we create wildly popular living experiences that keep tenants happy for the long-term. Make your student housing apartment a social sensation by requesting a consultation with our interior design team today!

5 Smart Home Features Every Student Housing Community Needs in 2022

With Gen-Z-ers comprising the majority of the student housing demographic, it’s no wonder that smart technology has become such a hot commodity for property developers seeking to attract new tenants. Smart home features appeal directly to today’s students’ constant need for connectivity. In fact, 62% of students say that smart technology is a top consideration for them when selecting a place to live.

There are an overwhelming number of smart home technologies available on the market, making it difficult for property developers to understand which features are most important to include in their communities. To help apartment managers better understand their options, our team put together a list of the top five smart home systems that every student housing community needs in 2022.

5 Best Smart Home Systems for Your Apartment Building

1 – Smart Locks

One of the biggest ways smart home technologies have revolutionized apartment living is through access controls. These smart lock systems are designed to allow residents to enter their homes with a special code, enabling them to control access from virtually anywhere. Some systems even offer residents the ability to regain entry with a 24/7, app-based customer service team in the event they lose or forget their code. Not only do smart locks offer a greater sense of community safety, but it also helps eliminate additional touchpoints to limit the spread of germs among residents.

2 – Video Intercom

In the same way that smart lock systems offer increased security, mobile-based video intercoms also provide stronger peace of mind for residents. A video intercom will allow residents to see guests before allowing them into the building, preventing against unauthorized entrance. This also offers a touchless entry method for tenants to let themselves into their apartments.

3 – Managed Wi-Fi

With today’s college students so dependent on internet access, managed Wi-Fi is arguably the most important feature to include in any student housing community. A managed Wi-Fi solution offers a dedicated and secure network for apartment residents, providing them with continuous access to a strong, reliable signal. It’s an incredibly important feature to include so communities can help support their residents’ study needs (not to mention the occasional binge-watching marathons).

4 – Smart Thermostats

Including smart thermostats in a student housing community doesn’t just provide added comfort and convenience for residents. It also offers owners and property managers a way to cut costs on heating and cooling expenses as these systems work to improve energy efficiency and overall HVAC performance. These systems can even communicate with other apartment features, including door and window senses, smart blinds, and outdoor temperature controls, using the information gained to automatically adjust the indoor temperature.

5 – Lighting & Outlets

Automated light switches and outlets offer a great solution in both shared amenity spaces and individual apartment units. By powering on only when rooms are occupied, these systems help property managers prevent against electricity waste while offering a sophisticated living experience for their residents. Some systems even give residents complete control over their plugged-in appliances and lights from everywhere using their smartphones.

Benefits of Having Smart Home Tech at Your Student Housing Property

Aside from satisfying the connectivity demands of today’s students, introducing smart home technology offers property managers many additional benefits, including:

Energy Efficiency: Smart home systems are designed to make improvements to energy efficiency across a broad range of building equipment. This enhanced energy-efficiency translates into significant savings not only for property managers, but also for the residents they serve.
Streamlined Processes: Many smart automations integrate with property management systems and leasing software, allowing managers to automate processes for more streamlined operations.
Stronger Security: Especially as more residents rely on online shopping and on-demand services, managing property security can be a challenge without the right smart tech systems in place. Access controls make it easier to improve community security and provide access to authorized guests while keeping unwanted intruders away.

Bring Smart Home Features to Your Multi-family Housing Community!

Interested in bringing smart home features to your multi-family housing community but aren’t sure where to start? SouthPark Interiors’ design experts have helped countless developers and clients incorporate the cutting-edge technologies they need to attract and retain residents. From automated HVAC and lighting to robust access controls, our team will help weave smart technology effortlessly into the form and function of your overall property design. Connect with our interior design experts to bring smart home features to your property today!

The Future of Environmentally Conscious Design

Why choose Eco-conscious design?

Why Environmentally Conscious design should matter for your student or multi-family housing community

Environmentally conscious interior design has become a top concern for many commercial developers looking to give their commercial spaces a competitive edge. Working alongside builders, architects, and engineers, interior designers are becoming more diligent about selecting environmentally responsible fixtures, finishes, and amenities that are good for the earth and for the tenants and residents they serve.

But what exactly does eco-conscious design entail, and why should it matter for your student or multi-family housing community? Discover the answers to these questions and more by getting the full scoop on sustainable design below!

What is Environmentally Conscious Design?

Environmentally conscious design means different things to different people. In general, sustainable design principles tend to focus on the following:

Consumption of non-renewable resources
Use of local and authentic materials
Water conservation
Sustainable supply chains
Ethical production practices

In some instances, properties may wish to take their commitment to sustainability a step further by working with designers who are certified in Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED). However, environmentally conscious design doesn’t always mean adhering to strict sustainability standards.

“Even something as simple as incorporating plants, greenery, or moss art can be a nice ode to environmentally conscious design,” explains interior designer, Ashley Harris. “Focusing a lot on bringing the outside in and vice-versa is also a great way to blend your natural surroundings with your interior space.”

Why Does It Matter?

According to recent research, tenants are placing more and more importance on properties that are able to offer sustainably designed spaces for them to live. In fact, 52% of tenants surveyed stated they would be willing to pay 10% more in rent while 33% stated they would accept a 5% rent increase if their buildings offered eco-friendly amenities. Keeping this in mind, it’s easy to see how investing in environmentally conscious design is so important for property managers seeking to remain profitable.

Eco-Conscious Design Must Haves for Multi-Family & Student Housing Properties

If you’re planning a redesign for your multi-family or student housing property, consider incorporating some of the following must-have environmentally conscious design features:

Leafy Greens

One of the easiest ways to give your multi-family or student housing property an eco-friendly vibe is by including plenty of greenery throughout your space.

“Our team loves the use of moss art, which is why we work a lot with the Savage Way to create custom art pieces that bring the outdoors in,” says Harris. Decorating the space with plenty of plants and greenery doesn’t just communicate eco-friendliness. Studies show that the use of plants in interior design help:

Reduce stress and anxiety
Improve sleep
Filter your indoor air supply
Increase productivity
Fight colds and allergies

Beyond decorating with greenery, finding ways to bring the outdoors in is a great way to promote eco-conscious design. This may include interior features such as installing garage door openings or accordion doors that allow for plenty of natural light and uninterrupted access to the outdoors.

Green Transportation

Location plays a critical role in any property’s success, and it’s important to consider how your tenants gain access to the community amenities that surround your space. If your property is located right within the heart of downtown with easy access to local shopping and restaurants, this might be a great opportunity for you to encourage greener transportation methods for your residents by including a bike path on your property. On-site bike paths, storage facilities, and even repair and wash stations can be a big selling point for tenants interested in leading a greener lifestyle.

If your property is located further from town, consider catering to the eco-conscious tenant by incorporating electric vehicle charging stations in your parking garage. Alternatively, you could partner with local ride share vendors or public transportation providers to offer your residents an eco-friendlier way to travel.

Community Gardens

Following the COVID-19 pandemic, peoples’ interest in gardening soared to an all-time high with seed sales seeing a 60% increase in 2020 alone. As more residents long for the opportunity to plant their own vegetables, fruits, and flowers, it’s a good idea to consider including a community garden space for tenants.

“It could be really cool design-wise to have a rooftop garden or terrace that doubles as a community gathering space while also collecting solar power or rainwater to power the building,” Harris muses. Not only would this encourage tenants to gather outdoors and garden, but it would also position the property to potentially earn LEED certification status.

Recycled Materials

In addition to amenities, developers and property owners should also focus their efforts on selecting recycled or reclaimed materials throughout their interior design. Harris warns, however, that going this route can get expensive quick:

“A lot of times, those things cost more to the client,” she explains. “So being able to have the budget to support eco-friendlier materials is important.”

Along with choosing recycled materials, it’s also recommended that properties select fixtures and finishes from manufacturers in the United States. From a logistics standpoint, choosing materials made in the USA helps reduce shipping needs, meaning a smaller carbon footprint for your project when compared to imported materials.

<>h2>SouthPark Interiors: Your Eco-Conscious Design Partners

If you’re seeking to prioritize environmentally conscious design at your multi-family or student housing property, look no further than SouthPark Interiors for the eco-friendly design partners you need. From our LEED Gold-rated design at the Ryder on Olive to our indoor-outdoor clubhouse design at Greene Crossing, our interior design team offers personalized sustainable solutions that meet the precise needs of our diverse clientele. Begin your eco-conscious design by contacting SouthPark Interiors online today!

How to Promote Local Businesses & Artists in Your Community

Local Art is Emerging

How do you integrate local artists into your student housing & multi-family properties

Creating a sense of community within your multi-family housing property is paramount to its success. One of the best ways to establish a sense of belonging for your residents is by promoting local businesses and artists within the community at large. While the amenities you offer at your property are important, it’s equally important to let your residents know that by living here, they’re closer to all the places they love the most!

Why Promote Off-Site Amenities at Your Multi-Family Community?

It might seem counterproductive to some developers and property managers to promote off-site services and amenities surrounding their apartment complexes. You’ve already invested so much into an on-site gym and spa — why drive your residents into the arms of the Planet Fitness down the street? But according to Apartment Guide, “neighborhood” was listed as the second-most important thing that renters look for when searching for a place to live.

It’s important for developers and property managers to understand that they need to be strategic in the types of local businesses and services they choose to promote. Stocking up on fliers for the local gym when you have your own to offer isn’t exactly the best partnership to forge. However, you might want to think about ways to promote local, healthy eateries for the fitness buffs in your community to enjoy. This way, you aren’t driving away residents from the spaces you worked hard to create for them while simultaneously offering them a way to broaden and strengthen their sense of community.

What Types of Off-Site Amenities Should a Multi-Family Property Promote?

As we mentioned before, developers and property managers should be strategic about which businesses they choose to promote. The following are just some of the types of businesses that multi-family housing properties might want to consider advertising within their communities:

Restaurants & Bars

Promoting local restaurants, breweries, and bars is a great way to showcase the abundance of worthwhile amenities right in your residents’ backyard. Many tenants look for properties that are close to grocery stores and restaurants, with residents often willing to pay more or overlook missing on-site amenities if the rental is located in a great neighborhood.

Art & Culture

In a survey by NMHC/Kingsley Apartment Renter Preferences Report, 60% of renters say their living space is tied to their identity. This is why it’s critical for apartment complexes to highlight amenities that reflect their residents’ preferences and values. For example, decorating your interior space with local artwork and promoting the artist’s gallery is a great way to attract and retain residents longing for a creative community. Maybe your community is filled with hobby gardeners; if that’s the case, consider promoting the local farmer’s market. By finding ways to connect with your community’s cultural values, you’ll be better able to retain residents.

Transportation & Tourism

Restaurants and community events are great, but sometimes all a resident wants to do is get out of town. Support your community’s thirst for adventure by showing them the way to easily accessible transportation and tourist destinations. While residents value close proximity to work, they may be willing to live further away from the city if they know they have easy access to a bus route or nearby train.

3 Clever Ways to Support Local Businesses at Your Multi-Family Community

There are plenty of ways in which multi-family housing developers and managers can partner with local businesses and artists to promote their surrounding communities. The following are just some of the things you can do at your apartment complex to “support local”:

Resident Events

Consider partnering with a local business on the next community event within your complex. Whether it’s having a local restaurant cater your community luncheon or hosting a yoga class with a local instructor, resident events are a great way to promote local offerings from the convenience and comfort of your community. When you do host a resident event with a local business, be sure to credit them appropriately either on the invitation or by making a sign to list the business’ information.

Welcome Bags

Welcome the newest members of your community by putting together a gift bag filled with all your favorite local goodies. This could be as personal as a goodie bag stuffed with local baked goods and artisanal snacks or as casual as a gift card to the nearest coffee shop. Not only does this show your newest community members how much you care, but those you help support will be appreciative of the added business.

Lobby Kiosks

Another great way to promote local businesses is by offering your residents a place where they can peruse pamphlets, brochures, and menus from the places that surround them. Adding a lobby kiosk with local information is a great way to keep your community abreast of what’s happening in the area and the amenities that are available.

The Difference Between Designing for Student Living & Multi-Family Housing

Understanding the differences

Student Housing Vs. Multifamily

Although multi-family housing and student living properties share many things in common, there are vast differences in how to approach the design for each. The way these properties are designed will ultimately dictate whether or not prospective residents will be sold on signing a lease/decide to call your site home.

It takes a knowledgeable design team to nail down the nuances that distinguish these properties from one another. By taking the time to truly assess the needs of your future residents, a thoughtful interior design team will be able to help you attract new leases with greater success!

Student Living vs. Multi-Family Housing Design

What’s the Same?

Before we dive into what makes designing these properties different, it’s important to point out the things they share in common. Both student living and multi-family housing residents have certain expectations for their living experiences, including:

Areas to gather as a community
Luxury amenities
Quality fixtures and materials
High-tech features and fast internet
Beautiful yet functional design

What separates the way in which these properties are designed more than anything is how each of these needs are met for the specific residents they are meant to serve.

What’s Different?

It’s important to consider who your resident will ultimately be before getting started with the interior design. The following illustrates how each of the aforementioned considerations change depending on what property type you’re designing:

Design Consideration	Student Living	Multi-Family Housing
Community Areas	Computer rooms and semi-private study spaces Student dining and event areas Gaming and media centers Project collaboration areas	Reservable lounges for family events Business centers and coworking areas Communal kitchens Family care spaces (i.e. daycare areas) On-site dining options
Luxury Amenities	Resort-style pools Rooftop community gardens Indoor-outdoor living spaces On-site or in-unit laundry facilities Full-service fitness centers Indoor bike storage Large mail rooms and package storage space	“Maker spaces” featuring work benches, floor drains, or extra HVAC ventilation Dog parks Indoor bike storage Resort-style pools and private cabanas Ground-level community gardens Large mail rooms and package storage space
Fixtures & Materials	Walk-in closets Private bathrooms and kitchens Quality countertops High-end kitchen appliances	Master suites Quality countertops High-end kitchen appliances Indoor air quality and water purification systems
Technology	Fast internet speeds and Wi-Fi connectivity Smart elevators	Access to high-speed internet providers Smart elevators Virtual doorman systems Automated doors

As for the interior design of your property, you’ll need to take much more into consideration when creating spaces for your ideal resident. Additionally, you’ll need to compare your property to similar properties in your market to see how you can fill voids that your competition is currently lacking. For instance, if you’re a multi-family housing property on the coast of Florida and your competition doesn’t offer private cabanas by the pool, this could be a great way to attract new residents.

Why Does It Matter?

Understanding how to cater your design to your residents is what separates successful properties from the rest. By taking the time to create a truly unique living experience that tends to the specific needs of your residents, you’ll be able to attract the right people to your community.

Interior Design Solutions for Any Living Situation

Creating spaces that speak to the residents they’re meant to serve is exactly what the SouthPark Interiors team does best. Our interior designers specialize in crafting carefully-curated living spaces for virtually every commercial living situation, including student housing, multi-family living, apartment complexes, and senior and active living communities. Contact our team to schedule a student housing or multi-family living design consultation today!

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