ABSTRACT
This chapter deals with the design of accommodation for students, but is also relevant to accommodation which is occupied for a limited period by other groups of independent, single people, such as 'spring-board' accommodation for young professionals. Student housing is normally designed to a budget that relates to the rent charged. There is an increasingly wide range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. Legislative and economic change has had a significant effect on students and the provision of student accommodation. Student accommodation is owned and managed in a variety of ways, which can have significant implications for design. Universities rarely have accommodation for all of their students, and priority is usually give to first year students and students from overseas who need more support to settle into the university community. Good social relationships are crucial to support students who are new to university and to reduce dropout rates.
