Purpose Built Student Accommodation
for Landlords & Developers
We work with landlords and developers to create student accommodation that balances functionality, comfort, and investment potential. Our in-house architectural team designs efficient layouts, while our interior designers optimise shared and private spaces to enhance the student experience.
Shared &
Multi use spaces
For Students
Create flexible, mixed-use spaces that students love.
Modern student accommodation often benefits from communal areas, study lounges, and multi-functional rooms. Design spaces that encourage collaboration, casual socialising, and co-working while maximising the usable area of your building.
Planning & Permitted Development
Want to maximise the ROI on your property?
We can advise on permitted development rights for student accommodation conversions, ensuring your project meets planning regulations while unlocking its full potential. Early planning consultation helps avoid costly delays and ensures compliance with local authority requirements.
Interior Design &
Specification
We have interior designers in-house to make the most efficient and comfortable use of space.
Our interior designers focus on creating efficient, high-quality spaces tailored for students. From compact bedrooms to multifunctional common areas, we optimise layouts for comfort, study, and social interaction. Clear, readable plans ensure your project is easy to understand for planning authorities, contractors, and investors alike.
House in Multiple Occupation – By the Numbers
We have extensive experience designing student accommodation that delivers both high occupancy and tenant satisfaction. Our structured approach from planning to delivery ensures projects meet regulatory standards and achieve commercial success.
96%
Our planning drawings achieve an approval rate of 96% with local authorities, reflecting our expertise in student accommodation design.
89%
Most clients who engage us at the planning and design stage continue with us into detailed technical drawings and specifications, ensuring smooth project delivery.
81%
A large proportion of clients also commission us for full design-and-build services, from concept through to construction.
“kept me informed and updated throughout”
— Ashley Scott
Brilliant service start to finish. Got my project through planning and kept me informed and updated throughout. Highly recommend.
Our Portfolio
Frequently Asked Questions
These are the most common question we get from landlords and developers for their HMO conversions. If you can’t find your question below feel free to contact us, and we’ll be happy to help.
Do you need planning for HMO conversion?
Planning requirements depend on the scale and type of student accommodation. Converting an existing property or redeveloping a site for student use may require full planning permission, especially for multi-storey buildings, increased occupancy, or mixed-use developments. Early consultation with local planning authorities is recommended.
Can I convert an existing property into student accommodation?
Yes, many residential or commercial buildings can be converted, but the design must meet fire safety regulations, accessibility standards, and local planning guidelines. Room sizes, shared facilities, and communal spaces must comply with current student accommodation standards.
What are the key requirements for student rooms?
Student rooms should be functional, safe, and comfortable. Key considerations include:
Access to communal kitchens, study areas, and social spaces
Adequate space for a bed, desk, and storage
Proper lighting and ventilation
Fire safety measures (alarms, escape routes, and fire doors)
Do student accommodation developments need communal areas?
Yes. Shared spaces are a critical part of modern student accommodation. This can include lounges, study zones, kitchens, and social areas that promote community living. Multi-use spaces that combine social and study functions are particularly valuable.
How long does it take to get planning approval?
Approval timelines vary depending on project complexity, local authority processes, and the size of the development. Smaller conversions may take a few months, while larger purpose-built student accommodation schemes can take longer. Early engagement and thorough planning documentation help speed up the process.
What about fire safety and building regulations?
Student accommodation must comply with fire safety and building regulations. This includes proper escape routes, fire alarms, fire doors, and emergency lighting. Common areas and bedrooms must meet local space and accessibility standards. Our team ensures all regulations are integrated into the design from the start.
What is the cost of converting a property into student accommodation?
Costs vary based on the scale, building condition, and facilities provided. Typical elements to consider include:
- Room fit-out (beds, storage, desks)
- Communal areas (kitchens, lounges, study spaces)
- Fire safety and accessibility upgrades
- Building works and infrastructure improvements
Our team works with you to provide detailed cost projections tailored to your site and project goals.
Can student accommodation be mixed-use?
Yes. Many modern developments combine residential student rooms with retail, office, or community spaces. Mixed-use schemes can increase project viability and create vibrant, well-integrated urban developments.
Can any property be used for student accommodation?
Not all properties are suitable. Factors such as building layout, access, location relative to campus or transport, and local planning policies affect feasibility. We assess site potential to ensure any student accommodation project is viable and compliant.
