Access to affordable, high-quality student accommodation is a crucial pillar within tertiary education frameworks. In South Africa, the demand for adequate student housing exceeds current supply, creating significant challenges for both institutions and students.
While the shift to online learning during the Covid-19 lockdowns raised concerns about the potential for permanent virtual learning, the post-pandemic landscape has seen a resurgence in demand for physical student housing, underscoring the ongoing need in this sector. This article explores the current construction trends in student housing and how RLB in South Africa is at the forefront of exciting and innovative Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) projects.
Understanding Gen Z’s housing needs
Gen Z, born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s, has distinct preferences when it comes to living environments. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z values more than just basic shelter. They seek spaces that promote comfort, community, and convenience. This shift from traditional dormitory-style accommodations has led to the creation of more sophisticated living spaces with a range of amenities designed to support their lifestyle and academic needs.
In South Africa, where many students move from rural areas to urban centres for their education, the demand for student housing that meets these expectations is particularly high. Today’s students prioritise safety, connectivity, and access to communal spaces for social interaction. These preferences are driving the design and development of modern student accommodations, ensuring it caters to their holistic needs.
The role of technology and wellness in student housing
Technology and wellness are two critical factors Gen Z students consider when selecting accommodation. With the growing reliance on digital tools for learning, access to high-speed internet and smart home features has become a non-negotiable standard in student housing. Modern PBSA developments often incorporate digital security systems, energy-efficient lighting, and automated maintenance reporting, which enhance the living experience and align with the tech-savvy nature of this generation.
In addition, wellness has emerged as a key priority. Gen Z is highly conscious of both mental and physical well-being, driving the demand for housing that offers wellness-oriented amenities. Facilities such as gyms, meditation rooms, communal kitchens, and outdoor green spaces are increasingly standard in new developments. These features encourage a balanced lifestyle, providing students with opportunities to relax, socialise, and maintain their health alongside their academic responsibilities. RLB’s involvement in projects that integrate these amenities reflects a deep understanding of the evolving expectations of today’s students.
Sustainability in modern student housing
Sustainability is another area where Gen Z’s preferences are shaping the future of student accommodation. This generation is acutely aware of environmental issues and expect their living environments to reflect their values. Developers are responding by incorporating a range of sustainable practices into the design and construction of student housing.
RLB has observed several sustainability trends in recent projects, including the use of greywater systems for irrigation, energy-saving LED lighting, and comprehensive recycling programmes. These features not only reduce the environmental impact of the buildings but also contribute to significant cost savings in terms of operations and maintenance. For instance, integrating green building measures can result in a 20-30% reduction in operating costs, benefiting both students and institutions.
The built environment constantly looks to the future, yet buildings account for nearly 40% of global carbon emissions. With sustainability now a critical priority, RLB recognises our collective responsibility not only to reduce our own carbon footprint but also to assist our clients in reducing theirs. We are committed to delivering projects that seamlessly integrate sustainable measures into large-scale, future-focused student accommodation developments, providing guidance on more sustainable options alongside our cost management services.
Construction trends: new builds vs. refurbishments and conversions
Addressing the student housing shortage requires multiple approaches, including new builds, refurbishments, and conversions of existing buildings. Each method has its own advantages, depending on factors such as location, cost, and the specific needs of the student population.
New builds provide opportunities to design accommodations from the ground up, integrating the latest technologies and amenities to suit Gen Z’s preferences. However, refurbishments and conversions are also playing a crucial role in expanding student housing availability. They extend the life of older buildings while offering students contemporary living spaces with the same level of comfort and convenience as new builds. These approaches can be more cost-effective and faster to implement, particularly in urban areas where space for new developments may be limited.
Case Studies: providing Quantity Surveying services on key projects
RLB’s involvement in recent and current projects highlights the company’s commitment to shaping the future of student housing in South Africa. The Fountains View project, located in Pretoria, is a newly established 15,500m² housing complex. With its focus on sustainability and modern amenities, it is a prime example of how new builds can cater to contemporary student demands. The development features high-quality facilities, including communal spaces, study lounges, and sports amenities, all designed to enhance the student experience.
Similarly, the refurbishment of House Erica, originally established in 1968 as one of the University of Pretoria’s oldest female student housing options, highlights the opportunity to revitalise existing structures and transform outdated accommodations into vibrant living spaces. The project focused on upgrading the building’s infrastructure to improve energy efficiency and create a more comfortable environment for students.
Tsebe House, designed for St Alban’s College, represents a fusion of innovation and cultural heritage. By using locally sourced materials and incorporating sustainable design with energy-efficient systems, the project is also aiming for green certification. Every space was designed with collaboration in mind, from staircases that double as social zones to rooms that flow into communal areas. This project not only provides high-quality accommodation but also creates bespoke student housing that fosters a strong sense of community.
The Ravenscraig Student Accommodation project, which broke ground in February this year, is progressing well. This 10-storey, multi-level development is situated in the vibrant suburb of Woodstock, Cape Town. Designed to attract students from the nearby Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT), just 1.5km away, Ravenscraig House will offer accommodation to approximately 867 students in a mix of single and two-sharing rooms. The development blends urban living with a suburban feel, incorporating gardens and communal spaces to foster a sense of community and well-being. Ravenscraig will be equipped with backup water and power supplies to ensure a supportive and resilient living environment. The project is expected to be completed by December 2025.
Conclusion
The student accommodation sector in South Africa is at a pivotal point, with growing demand and evolving expectations from Gen Z students driving significant changes. By focusing on technology, wellness, sustainability, and thoughtful design, RLB is helping clients create high-quality student housing that not only support their academic success but also enhances their overall well-being.
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