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From Analysis to Action: Building a Case for Student Housing

By Nathan Woods, AIA, NCARB

September 26, 2024
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In the ever-evolving landscape of higher education, the need for quality student housing is more crucial than ever.

As universities grow and adapt to changing demographics, trends in student preferences, and financial realities, student housing is not merely an accessory but a fundamental part of the student experience. This is especially true for institutions where addressing current and future student housing needs is a strategic priority. From understanding the demand to financial feasibility, let’s explore how a comprehensive approach, rooted in data, leads to actionable outcomes for building student housing.
Grace College – Omega Hall
Grace College – Omega Hall

Understanding the Need: Why Build?

The decision to build or expand student housing is driven by a combination of factors, including demographic trends, enrollment growth, and student satisfaction. For a recent client, the critical question was: Do we need more housing, and if so, how much? A comprehensive Demand Study and Survey was conducted, engaging 1,341 students with a response rate of 23%. The study revealed key insights, such as a 99% on-campus housing occupancy rate and waitlists exceeding 40 students in recent years. This clearly indicated a strong demand for additional housing.

Moreover, the survey highlighted student preferences, with single-bedroom apartments favored over other configurations. This data-driven approach ensures that the design of new facilities aligns with student desires, ultimately improving occupancy, retention and satisfaction.

Data-Driven Decision Making

The process of determining the need for student housing can rely heavily on quantitative and qualitative data. By assessing a university’s historical occupancy rates and retention figures, alongside broader campus development goals, a clear picture emerges. For instance, with this recent client, students living in residence halls had a significantly higher retention rate compared to commuters, a trend observed across multiple academic years.  This increased success amongst on-campus residential students not only delivered financial justification, but it also demonstrated a way for the institution to more effectively deliver on its mission driven initiatives focused on student success.

Additionally, an off-campus market analysis can provide further context for decision making. Local rental prices and the quality of housing available near campus are often studied to determine whether on-campus housing could be a more attractive option for students. This data-driven approach can offer a robust cast for the development of new housing and can become the backbone for decision-making through the design.
Valparaiso University Greek Housing living room Southern Wesleyan University – Joiner-Hilson Complex dorm room
Valparaiso University Greek Housing living room Southern Wesleyan University – Joiner-Hilson Complex dorm room

Financial Feasibility: From Concept to Reality

Once the need for housing is established, the next step is to ensure the financial feasibility of the project. The pro forma analysis for our client’s new residence hall projected a total project cost of just over $10.9 million, with 124 beds planned across 40,000 square feet. This detailed financial planning, along with a close examination of projected rents and operating costs, ensured that the project would not only meet student demand but also remain financially sustainable for the institution.

Moreover, the incremental demand analysis highlighted that new housing could support a range of 93 to 231 additional beds, reinforcing the financial case for the project. This analysis takes into account the “closure rate” – the percentage of students who would actually lease a unit if available, which provides a more realistic projection for housing needs and ensuring the design of the new housing is sized appropriately.

Designing with Purpose: Aligning with Campus Goals

Beyond the numbers, student housing must integrate seamlessly with broader campus development plans. A proposed new residence hall is more than just a building—it’s a catalyst for future campus growth.

One example is a recently completed student housing project with Indiana Tech, located on Schick Street in Fort Wayne, Ind. The project marks the beginning of a pedestrian-friendly “Residential Village,” connecting students with the academic heart of the campus. This thoughtful integration not only serves immediate housing needs but also lays the foundation for long-term campus vibrancy.

From flexible room layouts to dedicated RA suites, every aspect of the design in a housing project should be student centric. By incorporating spaces that encourage interaction while maintaining privacy and comfort, new housing will enhance the student experience and foster a strong sense of community.  This has been shown to have a direct impact on test scores, engagement, and ultimately student (and institution) success.
Indiana Tech Student Housing Residence Hall Exterior Rendering Indiana Tech Student Housing Residence Hall Exterior Rendering
Indiana Tech Student Housing Residence Hall Exterior Rendering Indiana Tech Student Housing Residence Hall Exterior Rendering

Turning Analysis into Action

The journey from analysis to action is about more than just constructing a building; it’s about creating a space that supports student success. Data-driven decisions lead to a well-planned, financially sound, and thoughtfully designed housing solution that aligns with the institution’s long-term goals. For universities looking to build a case for new student housing, this approach serves as a model: start with data, align with campus needs, and execute with purpose.

Want to learn more? View our Education project portfolio to see how we’ve helped other educational institutions analysis and meet their campus’ needs.

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