Residence Hall Amenities

The Calvin University Residence Life program emphasizes the residence hall as a central component of the student experience, extending beyond mere accommodation to serve as a hub for social interaction, academic pursuits, spiritual growth, and personal development. As a residential institution, Calvin University mandates that students live on campus for their initial two years post-high school, with specific exemptions for individuals aged 21 or older, married students, part-time enrollees, or those residing with parents. This policy underscores the university's commitment to fostering a vibrant on-campus community. Each residence hall features double-occupancy rooms designed in a suite-style configuration, where two rooms share a single bathroom. The rooms come equipped with stackable furniture, including beds with mattresses, dressers, desks, desk lamps, and chairs. Bathrooms are furnished with a shower, toilet, sink, counter space, and storage, with essential supplies such as toilet paper, paper towels, and cleaning supplies readily available at the front reception desk of each hall. Additionally, rooms include closets with shelves, built-in bookshelves, and connectivity options like WiFi and ethernet ports, ensuring a comfortable and functional living and study environment for students. Beyond individual rooms, the residence halls offer a comprehensive array of amenities designed to enhance student life. These include an extra community bathroom with a tub, toilet, and large sink for additional convenience. Each floor provides a lounge area with a kitchen, fostering communal cooking and socializing. Centralized reception desks handle mail and offer sports equipment and games for recreation. Spiritual needs are addressed with meditation chapels and prayer rooms. Academic support is facilitated by network printers, basement lounges, and dedicated study areas. Recreational facilities like a recreation room and bicycle storage options, including outdoor racks and an indoor room, cater to various student interests. Furthermore, specific halls like Bolt-Heyns-Timmer and Noordewier-VanderWerp are equipped with copy machines in their lobbies, and an ATM is available in Noordewier-VanderWerp. A trunk room is provided for storing off-season clothing, boxes, and suitcases, with summer storage options for returning students. Prospective and current students can access practical resources such as a detailed list of what to bring and what not to bring, a Residence Hall Reference Guide in PDF format, and information on housing costs. The university also offers a Student Handbook outlining the Student Conduct Code. To aid in planning and visualization, students can utilize a PDF document detailing dorm layouts and measurements, view a virtual tour of the Bolt-Heyns-Timmer residence hall, and watch a video demonstrating various furniture arrangements. This comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared and supported during their residential experience at Calvin University, integrating living arrangements seamlessly into their broader educational journey. #ResidenceLife #StudentHousing #CampusLiving #DormRooms #CalvinUniversity #StudentAmenities #OnCampusExperience #UniversityHousing

The Wildlife Retreat at Taronga offers a unique accommodation experience nestled within the natural landscape of Taronga Zoo Sydney. Guests can choose from a range of thoughtfully designed rooms, each offering distinct views and amenities. The retreat emphasizes luxury facilities combined with sustainable practices, ensuring a comfortable stay that also considers environmental impact. All accommodations feature spacious king or twin bedding, climate control (air conditioning and heating), elegant custom furniture, and sustainable amenities free from single-use plastics. Complimentary high-speed WiFi and flat-screen TVs are standard, providing options for relaxation amid the sounds of the Taronga sanctuary. The Bushland Room provides views of iconic Australian bushland, with native birds and flora visible from the windows. Packages for this room type typically include a Sanctuary tour, buffet breakfast at Me-Gal restaurant, complimentary access to Taronga Zoo Sydney, and free parking. These rooms accommodate a maximum of two adults and one child, with options for interconnecting rooms for larger families with children aged 10 and over. Amenities include a king-size bed, an open-plan ensuite with a shower, a mini-bar menu, a pull-out trundle bed (suitable for children up to age six upon request), and a baby cot (also upon request). The Animal View Room offers direct views of the Wildlife Retreat's Sanctuary, a lush habitat where Australian animals reside just outside the window. Similar to the Bushland Room, packages include a Sanctuary tour, buffet breakfast, zoo access, and parking. Room capacity and amenity details mirror those of the Bushland Room, including the availability of interconnecting rooms for families. The emphasis is on providing an immersive experience, bringing guests closer to the wildlife. For those seeking panoramic vistas, the Harbour View Room presents stunning sunrise views over Taronga Zoo Sydney, extending across Sydney Harbour to include the iconic Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The package inclusions for Harbour View Rooms are consistent with the other room types. These rooms also accommodate up to two adults and one child, with family-friendly options for interconnecting rooms. All standard amenities, such as the king-size bed, open-plan ensuite, and sustainable products, are provided. For an elevated experience, the Treetop Suites are the most spacious accommodation option, featuring panoramic views and an open-plan ensuite with a freestanding bathtub. These suites are designed for ultimate comfort and include the same package benefits as the other rooms. Treetop Suites can accommodate a maximum of three adults or two adults and one child. In addition to the standard amenities, they boast a custom king-size bed and the luxurious addition of a bathtub. The Wildlife Retreat also provides Accessible Rooms, specifically designed to accommodate guests with mobility needs. These four rooms include bathrooms and shower facilities suitable for wheelchair access. The N'Gurra Lounge and Me-Gal Restaurant also feature fully accessible toilets. The Sanctuary and Wollemi Tour are wheelchair accessible, and guests can obtain an accessible Zoo Map to navigate the zoo's paths. Accessible Rooms can accommodate up to three adults or two adults and one child, offering a king-size bed and a single roll-away bed upon request, alongside all other standard room amenities. #WildlifeRetreat #TarongaZooSydney #LuxuryAccommodation #SustainableTravel #AnimalViewRooms #HarbourViews #TreetopSuites #AccessibleAccommodation #ZooStay

Clarkson University emphasizes that collaboration, connection, and success for its students begin with their living environment. The Residence Life staff at Clarkson University is dedicated to creating a welcoming, comfortable, and growth-oriented home for students. This commitment extends from housing options and community building to the move-in process. Students requiring medically related accommodations for housing are advised to contact the Office of Accessibility Services (OAS). Familiarity with Clarkson Regulations and academic standards is also encouraged for all students. The Clarkson School offers a unique one-year residential program for high school seniors, allowing them to complete their senior year on campus, take first-year college courses, and access research opportunities, providing a head start on their bachelor's degree. The Residence Life section details various housing styles and pricing information. Clarkson is a four-year residential campus offering diverse living options, including traditional residence halls, suites, and apartments, designed to evolve with students' academic journeys. Housing eligibility is based on the student cohort and the number of semesters lived on campus. All accommodations come furnished with essential items like beds, desks, dressers, and closets. Apartments additionally include a refrigerator, stove, and living/dining room furniture; however, students in apartments are responsible for their own kitchenware. A full dining plan is mandatory for all on-campus residents, except those living in apartments. First-Year Living-Learning Communities are a key component of the student experience, designed to help first-year students connect with peers who share similar interests through themed floors, such as those for gamers, makers, and movie lovers. The article also provides contact information for Residence Life staff, including the Residential Housing Manager and various Area Coordinators for different housing types and programs. CURL (Clarkson University ResLife Portal) serves as a centralized online hub for managing housing, dining, and residential life. Through CURL, students can apply for housing, view room assignments, complete roommate matching questionnaires, submit and track roommate requests, request room changes, complete room condition reports, view and request meal plan changes, access important housing documents, and participate in a community forum. The article categorizes housing options into Traditional, Suites, and Apartments. Traditional halls like Cubley, Reynolds, Ross, and Brooks (the Quad) house first-year students in double or triple rooms, with shared bathrooms cleaned by Facilities. Hamlin-Powers houses a mix of class years, primarily sophomores, in single and double rooms. Suite options include Moore House, offering traditional and standalone suites for up to eight people, with laundry rooms on each floor. Graham Hall primarily houses juniors in suites with private bathrooms and shared lounges, including a specific Living-Learning Community for FIRST Robotics. Price Hall offers suite-style rooms with private bathrooms and common lounges, housing The Clarkson School students and upper-class students. Apartment options, typically for senior and graduate students, include Woodstock Village, Riverside Apartments, Weston's Apartments (above the University Bookstore), and Townhouse Apartments. These apartments offer varying bedroom counts and communal facilities, with residents responsible for their own cleaning. Limited single rooms are available, primarily for upper-class students, through a housing lottery or medical approval. Key policies covered include multi-occupancy rooms, which may require students to receive a roommate at any time, and a room buy-out option in certain areas to avoid random roommate assignments. The university also maintains theme houses for fraternities. Practical information for students includes vending machines, campus mailboxes, direct delivery protocols (delivery staff not allowed in residential buildings), network access, parking, bicycle racks, and air conditioning policies (window units prohibited, floor units allowed). The university does not offer storage for personal belongings, and residents must remove all items when vacating housing. The article also outlines policies for commuter status, available for students living within 50 miles of campus at a parent or legal guardian's primary residence. Guidance on packing for college is provided, differentiating between essential items (bedding, towels, toiletries, clothes, personal fan), study aids (desk lamp, organizer, school supplies, headphones), and electronics (Energy Star appliances, computer, Ethernet cable, smart power strip). A crucial piece of advice is to coordinate MicroFridge rentals with roommates. Prohibited items include air conditioners, candles, grills, extension cords, full-size refrigerators, halogen lamps, LED light strips, space heaters, toaster ovens, waterbeds, wireless access points, and zip cords. Additional resources for new students cover topics like advice for first-year students, acclimating as a transfer student, dorm hacks, decorating dorms, overcoming homesickness, a roommate survival guide, and tips for move-in day. The university explicitly states it does not insure student property and recommends personal property insurance. Students are liable for damages to their rooms and common areas. Frequently Asked Questions address meal plans (required for traditional/suite housing, optional for apartments/theme houses), meal plan changes (within the first two weeks), roommate selection (survey matching or mutual requests), single room availability (upper-class lottery/medical), pet policy (service animals only), lost ID cards (report to Campus Safety & Security), lost keys (report to Campus Safety & Security, charged for replacement, duplication prohibited), and maintenance requests (online work order system). The policy on open beds states that Residence Life reserves the right to reassign students to vacant spaces. Information on campus breaks details policies for October/February breaks (university open, limited dining), November/Spring breaks (university closed, students must vacate unless approved by Residence Life), Winter break (students vacate after exams, graduates after commencement, exceptions with Residence Life approval), and Summer break (same as Winter break, no storage provided). Contact information for additional inquiries is provided at the end, along with links to request information, visit the campus, or apply. #ClarksonUniversity #ResidenceLife #StudentHousing #CampusLiving #LivingLearningCommunities #DormLife #StudentSupport #HousingOptions #MoveInGuide

This photo album provides a visual tour of the interior and exterior spaces within Williams and Rogge Halls, showcasing various residential and common areas. The hallways feature a familiar red color, contributing to a distinct aesthetic. Bathrooms are designed to be spacious, equipped with tiled showers, and configured to accommodate no more than two individuals per bath, emphasizing user comfort and privacy. Bedroom quarters are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing for various arrangements and personalizations by students. For suites housing three or more students, a common space is provided, which includes a kitchenette. This communal area is intended to foster interaction and convenience for residents. One specific unit, a two-bedroom, two-bath setup, features a sizeable common space, suggesting ample room for shared activities and relaxation. Additionally, there are one-person bathrooms available within three-man rooms, offering individual facilities for some residents. The album also offers a glimpse into single suites, which comprise two single bedrooms sharing one common bathroom, illustrating a different living arrangement option. Certain rooms located above the entrance area provide a unique view, available to a limited number of occupants. The building also features a back entrance, with a visible window on the second floor that corresponds to a previously shown image. While the student rooms are depicted as ready for occupancy, ongoing work in the common areas and the soon-to-be-completed lounge indicates continued development and enhancement of the facilities. The photographs capture various aspects of the halls, highlighting both private and shared living environments, and offer insights into the current state and future improvements of the residential spaces. #ResidentialHalls #StudentHousing #CampusLife #DormitoryDesign #InteriorDesign #CommonAreas #WabashCollege #RenovationUpdate

High Point University's Housing and Residence Life department provides a diverse array of living options for its students, aiming to foster a comprehensive developmental experience. The university offers accommodations ranging from apartment-style single rooms to shared double occupancy facilities, catering to both first-year students and upperclassmen. This residential approach is designed to cultivate a strong sense of self among students, integrating their academic pursuits with their residential community life. The department emphasizes that campus living is integral to the overall student experience, going beyond just providing a place to stay. The residential offerings are categorized by student type, including specific halls for first-year students, upperclassmen, and graduate students. First-year students have options such as Belk Hall, Blessing, Finch Hall, McEwen, Millis Hall, North Hall, Panther Commons, RG Wanek Center & University Center II, Wesley Hall, Wilson, and Yadkin Hall. The process for first-year students involves making an enrollment deposit, followed by completing a housing application through the university's housing portal. For upperclassmen, the choices expand to include Aldridge Village 1 & 2, Caffey Hall, Centennial Square 1 & 2, Greek Village, McCain Place Townhomes, North College Court, North College Terrace, North College Townhomes, Point Place, University Landing Tiny Homes, University Owned Houses, University Village, and York Hall. The procedure for upperclassmen is similar, requiring a housing deposit and accessing the housing portal. Graduate students are offered University Owned Houses and University Village, also following the housing deposit and portal access steps. Several resources are made available to students to facilitate their housing selection process. These include detailed guides for first-year, returning undergraduate, and graduate student housing selection, as well as a housing fair resource. Additional information covers housing tier specifics, location and layout details for various residences, and policies regarding emotional support animals. The university also provides comprehensive residential resources and support services, along with information on housing deposits and accommodations for students with specific needs. The university highlights its commitment to an inspiring environment and caring people, aiming to provide an extraordinary educational experience. Students who have lived in High Point University's residence halls often share positive testimonials. For example, residents appreciate the privacy of their own rooms while still having common areas for socialization. Many find the halls conducive to academic success, offering quiet spaces for study without needing to leave the building. The central location of some halls on campus is also a significant advantage, providing easy access to classes and other university facilities. The community aspect is frequently praised, with students forming strong bonds and experiencing a sense of family within their residential complexes. The honors floor, in particular, is noted for fostering a supportive academic environment and strong educational bonds among residents. High Point University has also received recognition for its student housing and campus aesthetics, being named among the nation's best for student housing and recreation, and having its residence halls and campus acknowledged by affordable schools. #HighPointUniversity #StudentHousing #ResidenceLife #CampusLiving #StudentExperience #DormitoryOptions #UniversityHousing #ResidentialCommunity #CollegeLife

Cornerstone University emphasizes a distinctive residence life experience, aiming to fully integrate students into campus life through various formative activities, including Orientation Week and campus-wide events like chapel services. These experiences are designed to foster personal transformation and encourage engagement among roommates and friends. The university maintains a Christ-centered community, which is foundational to all campus activities, promoting interactions between students and professors, casual greetings, and spontaneous worship gatherings within residence halls. The university offers diverse housing options tailored to different student needs and class years. Pickitt Hall, established in 1970, provides community-style living for freshman women, designed to facilitate integration into campus life. It features traditions such as Powderpuff and the Pickitt Talent Show and includes a furnished lounge with a pool table and television. Quincer Hall, known as “the Q” and established in 1964, offers community-style living for freshman men. It is recognized for its unique brotherhood atmosphere and various traditions aimed at supporting new students. This hall, named after Dr. Sheldon Byron Quincer, also includes a furnished lounge for community building. Central Hall, the newest residence hall completed in 2013, provides suite-style housing for upperclassmen, specifically sophomores, juniors, and transfer students, with coed floors. Residents have views of the De Witt baseball field, and the hall includes community lounges for interaction and study, along with accessible rooms. Cook and Van Osdel (VO) Halls, established in 2000, are connected by a three-story glass atrium and offer suite-style living for women and men, respectively, accommodating both freshmen and upperclassmen. These halls host events like Dancing with the Sections and feature shared lounges with kitchenettes, study areas, and game areas. Crawford and Babcock Halls, built in 1980, provide apartment-style living for upperclassmen with coed floors. Each apartment includes a fully-furnished kitchen, living room, two bedrooms, and a full bathroom, allowing students to manage their meal plans. These halls, named after Dr. Joe Crawford and Dr. Wendall Babcock, also offer community lounges. Keithley Hall, established in 1975, offers suite-style living for upperclassmen, with coed floors and units designed for four residents with a shared bathroom. Known for movie and game nights, Keithley Hall also features a prayer room and furnished lounge. Additionally, the Fuller, Knol, and Morris rental apartments provide on-site, year-round housing options primarily for married students, graduate students, and older undergraduate students who might otherwise seek off-campus accommodation. These diverse housing solutions underscore Cornerstone University's commitment to fostering a supportive and communal living environment for all its students, aiming to enhance their overall campus experience and facilitate their academic and spiritual growth. #UniversityHousing #StudentLife #ResidenceHalls #CampusCommunity #UndergraduateExperience #ChristianUniversity #HigherEducation

In a competitive property market, specific home updates can significantly boost a property's value and appeal to potential buyers. According to insights from premium home interiors brand Neville Johnson, in collaboration with leading property experts from Foxtons, strategic improvements in five key areas could increase a home's value by as much as 20%. These updates also contribute to a quicker sale. Ryan Ninnis from Foxtons emphasizes that presenting a stylish, well-designed, and functional home is crucial for differentiation and rapid sales, noting that home improvements aligned with local market demands frequently result in value increases of 15-20%. One critical area for improvement is the staircase, often the first visual element upon entering a home. Despite being frequently overlooked, a well-purposed staircase in a hallway can create an impeccable first impression. Property experts observe that potential buyers often form an opinion on a property within the first 30 seconds of entering, underscoring the importance of this feature. Therefore, investing in an elegant and functional staircase can play a significant role in capturing a buyer's interest from the outset. Clever storage solutions, particularly fitted wardrobes, are another valuable addition. With homeowners increasingly prioritizing space efficiency, fitted bedroom furniture adds substantial value. New home developments set a high benchmark for storage, making it essential for older or traditional properties to integrate smart storage options. Fitted wardrobes offer a practical solution for maximizing space while either complementing original architectural features in traditional homes or adding bold style in modern ones. Multi-functional study spaces have also become a major asset, especially given the rise in remote work. These dedicated workspaces, which might even replace a bedroom, significantly enhance a home's appeal and value. A bespoke study space caters to the contemporary need for homes to serve as productive office environments, making it a highly desirable feature for many buyers. Additionally, dressing rooms can significantly attract buyers. A well-designed fitted dressing room allows potential occupants to visualize themselves living in the space, fostering an emotional connection. The resurgence of focusing on adult spaces within the home has elevated dressing rooms, often paired with a master bedroom and en suite, to a high-priority feature even for family buyers, who are willing to pay a premium for such dedicated spaces. Finally, creating a relaxing home library is an increasingly popular update that can make a property stand out. With more individuals working from home, a dedicated space for relaxation and escape from work-life is highly sought after. Whether a traditional library with classic architectural details or a contemporary one with modern lighting and seamless doors, a home library can serve as a focal point, adding desirability, quality, and considerable value to the property. #PropertyValue #HomeImprovements #InteriorDesign #HomeStaging #FittedWardrobes #HomeOffice #DressingRoom #HomeLibrary #RealEstate

The global population is experiencing a significant demographic shift, with the proportion of individuals aged 65 and older increasing faster than younger age groups. Projections indicate that by 2050, the number of people aged 65 and older will double that of children under five and nearly equal those under twelve. This demographic trend necessitates a re-evaluation of architectural and design approaches for senior living facilities, focusing on creating environments that enhance well-being, foster social interaction, and integrate residents with nature. Designing spaces for older adults involves careful consideration of sustainability, material choices, and accessibility to support their daily activities and promote dignified aging. The incorporation of outdoor areas such as courtyards, gardens, and terraces is crucial. These green spaces facilitate interaction with nature, offering recreational opportunities and therapeutic benefits. Examples like NORD Architects' Alzheimers Village demonstrate how transforming the landscape into a recreational space can benefit residents. Similarly, the Sentidos Comprehensive Center for the Elderly emphasizes person-centered care through varied outdoor sequences, utilizing vegetation, sunlight, and outdoor environments to encourage active and independent living. This design philosophy supports both private contemplation and communal engagement, allowing residents to observe nature from their rooms or stroll through garden paths. The integration of seniors into urban life is another critical aspect. Various global projects aim to create community living spaces that interact with their surrounding urban environments. The Elzenhof Veenoord Courtyard for Elderly, for instance, encourages older adults to transition to smaller residences, freeing up larger family homes for younger generations, while the Nibankan nursing home in Japan challenges isolation by integrating residents into the city through open dining rooms, lounges, and living areas that promote informal neighborhood interactions. This approach addresses issues of isolation and caregiver shortages prevalent in Japan's aging society. Retirement village projects, such as Metlifecare Gulf Rise Retirement Homes in New Zealand, are also designed with human scale, context, and community engagement in mind, prioritizing safety, socialization, and connection for their residents. Creating a sense of 'home' in senior residences, moving away from a hospital-like atmosphere, presents a significant design challenge. This involves careful selection of materials and design strategies. Facilities like Les Hallates Senior Housing incorporate medical offices and community rooms, complemented by courtyards, terraces, and gardens that provide resting areas, social pergolas, and spaces for exercise or rehabilitation. These outdoor spaces are equipped with appropriate furniture and ramps to ensure accessibility and leisure. The design of indoor spaces also plays a vital role, emphasizing functional layouts, clear access points, and easy orientation to enable autonomous daily life for seniors and efficient workflows for caregivers. Warm colors, tactile materials, carpets, and wood are often used to create harmonious and homely interiors, as seen in the Retirement Home of the Franciscan Sisters in Vienna and De Drie Platanen Care Home. Achieving energy efficiency in harmony with nature is an essential sustainable strategy. Designs that preserve pre-existing trees, integrate green areas, and conserve natural species contribute to residents' daily well-being. Courtyards, gardens, and terraces can provide natural light, cross-ventilation, and multi-directional views, fostering a continuous dialogue between indoor spaces and nature. The Residence for the Elderly in Pòrtol, for example, aims for a nearly Zero Energy Building status by prioritizing passive strategies like adiabatic cooling and cross-ventilation. Deciduous plant pergolas are used to protect outdoor terraces in summer and allow solar radiation in winter, acting as energy collectors. The Nursing Home Passivhaus further exemplifies this approach by generating more energy than it consumes, utilizing heat recovery systems and airtightness to ensure optimal air quality and prevent respiratory allergies, thereby combining efficiency, sustainability, and nature to create wellness spaces for senior citizens. #ElderlyDesign #SeniorLiving #CommunityLife #NaturalEnvironment #SustainableArchitecture #Accessibility #OutdoorSpaces #GreenSpaces #UrbanIntegration

Currier House at Harvard University is presented as a welcoming and community-focused residential space, distinguishing itself with unique features and a vibrant atmosphere. The article highlights the house's layout, designed to foster interaction among residents, as evidenced by its single entrance that funnels all traffic through Lower Main, a central hub housing the dining hall and the 'Fishbowl' common room. This design encourages spontaneous social interactions, with residents frequently stopping to chat in their pajamas on their way to and from the dining hall. Beyond its architectural design, Currier House is celebrated for its amenities that cater to diverse interests and hobbies. It boasts 52 kitchens, a dance studio, a Makerspace for sewing, and common rooms equipped with foosball tables. The house has also historically provided free ukuleles and lessons, encouraging residents to explore new skills. A notable feature of Currier is its spacious single dorm rooms, offering a level of personal space that is often a luxury in collegiate housing. These dorms are distributed across four towers and come in two primary configurations: two singles connected by a bathroom, and a suite-style layout that sometimes includes a kitchen and private balcony access. Sophomores are typically assigned to the former setup, still benefiting from common rooms on each floor for cooking and socializing. The 'Ten Man' suite, accommodating ten residents, stands out with the largest private common room on campus and its own elevator. Currier House is also known for its signature events, including the large-scale Halloween party 'Heaven and Hell' and the popular karaoke night 'Currioke.' Smaller, more intimate gatherings like ski trips, s'mores nights, and 'Currier-exclusive fancy dinner nights' — which have featured dishes like bacon mac and cheese and even a Shrek-themed stein — further contribute to the house's unique social calendar. The strong faculty-student relationship is a cornerstone of the Currier community, with Faculty Deans Latanya Sweeney ’95 and Sylvia Barrett ’94 actively engaging with students, for example, by riding segways and distributing cider. Tutors are also readily available to offer advice and support, bridging any potential disconnect between students and adult mentors. Sustainability is another key aspect of Currier House, which has consistently been ranked as the most sustainable house on campus. This ethos is embodied by its mascot, a tree, personified by Felix B. Bulwa ’23. The mascot symbolizes a focus on community, school spirit, and grounding in the present. The tree mascot, specifically an apple tree from Radcliffe College, also underscores Currier's identity as the most inclusive house, notably being the only one named solely after a woman. Interviews with House Committee chairs Nina K. Chung ’23 and Ruhi Nayak ’23 further reveal the house's 'vibe' as welcoming, inclusive, community-oriented, and spirited. When asked what Currier would do if it won the lottery, the responses highlighted a desire for more nice outings, ski trips, and an abundance of food, emphasizing the house's appreciation for shared meals and experiences, and even considering an increase in HUDS staff pay. The overall sentiment conveyed is one of a deeply rooted, resilient community that values comfort, connection, and a strong sense of belonging, making it a desirable residential choice. #CurrierHouse #HarvardUniversity #StudentHousing #CampusLife #CommunityLiving #DormLife #ResidentialLife #StudentActivities #Sustainability

This article details the creation of a unique resort-style home in Bali for Alexander Jovanovic, designed by the A2Kreasitama (A2K) team. The project addressed the challenge of an irregularly shaped plot of land, which ultimately inspired the central octagonal foyer, serving as a functional meeting point and a symbolic compass for the house. The design aimed to merge the characteristics of a resort villa, emphasizing natural airflow, with the functionality of a traditional home where spaces could be fully enclosed. To achieve this dual functionality, the A2K team incorporated aluminum glass doors that can be fully opened to allow natural ventilation while also being tightly sealed to prevent insect intrusion. Strategic placement and height of the house were crucial in maximizing natural airflow, effectively eliminating the need for air conditioning. The home's location in Dreamland – Pecatu, Bali, allowed for the integration of Balinese contemporary design elements, starting with intricate wooden carvings at the main entrance. The octagonal foyer, inspired by Taoist cosmology, was intended to bring balance and stability to the irregular landform. The interior of the foyer features white granite tile floors, a sleek console table with a painting, and a contemporary chandelier above a central round table. From the foyer, access is provided to two bedrooms through oversized solid wood doors, and a glass door opens to the swimming pool. The guest bedroom is situated to the left, adjacent to a staircase leading to the upper floors, while the master bedroom on the right offers direct access to a green-stone swimming pool and a private wooden parquet patio. The master suite includes a walk-in closet connecting to a Balinese semi-outdoor bathroom, which features a freestanding bathtub, a solid wall finish, and a stonescape garden, enhancing the private resort-like ambiance. An outdoor whirlpool is located between the master bedroom and the main pool. The guest bedroom also has an open terrace for entertaining or enjoying sunsets, and its bathroom is equipped with a glass wall shower and a small garden leading to the swimming pool. All bedrooms are finished with wooden parquet floors and adorned with solid wood and natural stone accents. An eye-catching contemporary staircase, constructed from steel and solid wood with frameless glass railings, leads to the upper levels. A high synthetic rattan ceiling above the staircase not only serves as an aesthetic feature but also demonstrates a clever use of local materials. The living and dining areas are uniquely positioned on the upper floor to offer magnificent views during daily activities, cultivating a recreational, resort, and tropical atmosphere. The living room, encased by transparent glass doors and solid wood columns, is a focal point of the house. It includes a solid wood dining table with an integrated teppanyaki-style stove for entertaining. Above the dining room, an attic serves as a relaxing space and provides access to a rooftop with panoramic views of Jimbaran Bay and the airport runway, ideal for social gatherings. The lower ground level accommodates a service area, laundry room, and a spacious garage with a carport that can function as a versatile multi-purpose space. Given the owner's background in the hospitality business, the A2K team meticulously designed the home to offer luxurious comfort and a distinct resort feel. The public and private areas are clearly delineated, and the designer used scale effectively to maximize space and apply hospitality industry standards to a private residence. For example, the octagonal foyer's atrium was designed to be larger than typical for a home of its size. The innovative design on the 505 sqm plot successfully integrated various functions to cater to the owner's lifestyle, resulting in a truly unique resort-style home. #ArchitectureInterior #ResortStyleHome #BaliDesign #A2Kreasitama #SustainableDesign #BalineseContemporary #LuxuryLiving #ArchitecturalInnovation

The Village, situated in the Lower Quarry adjacent to the UCSC Farm and Garden, offers an apartment-style community designed for continuing and transfer students seeking a more independent living experience. This community is characterized by its peaceful setting, surrounded by redwoods and native landscaping, providing a secluded feel away from the main campus activity. The Village emphasizes a co-operative atmosphere through shared houses, a communal kitchen, and a community garden, fostering a strong sense of community among residents. The housing options at The Village include shared residence houses with single and small double bedrooms, shared bathrooms, and one kitchenette per house. A meal plan is not mandatory for residents, though voluntary meal plans are available. Eligibility for The Village extends to continuing and new transfer students. The residence houses are single-story and can be single-gender or mixed-gender, with all-gender bathrooms designed for privacy. Each room is furnished, and specific floor plans are provided to give a general idea of the room layout and configuration, though furniture arrangements may vary. The Village offers various community living options, allowing residents to indicate their preferences during the housing application process. These options include LGBTQIA+ Housing, which promotes an open and supportive environment for all identities and allies, available in mixed-gender areas. Mixed-Gender Housing allows students of any gender to live on the same floor or in the same apartment, with single-gender bedrooms and mixed-gender bathrooms featuring private toilet and shower stalls. Single-Gender Housing is also available, where students of a single gender live together, and bathrooms are primarily used by individuals identifying with that gender, with availability dependent on demand. Beyond basic amenities, The Village provides unique features that enhance its community living. These include community buildings with kitchen stations, a laundry room with washers and dryers, and a TV lounge for community events. A community garden further supports the co-op-like environment. The community benefits from on-site staff, including a live-in Coordinator for Residential Education and student staff who organize activities and assist residents. A nighttime Residential Community Service Partner patrols the grounds, helping with lockouts, policy enforcement, and emergencies. Transportation around The Village is convenient, with access to nearby campus and city bus services, night shuttles for pick-up and drop-off, bicycle storage racks, and adjacent bicycle paths. A staircase provides quick access to shuttle stops, the East Remote parking lot, and walking paths. For mail, Village residents use their affiliated college address. Post-move-in, residents can obtain a Housing Verification letter through the Housing Portal for official purposes. Contact information for The Village housing office and UCSC Student Housing Services is provided for inquiries regarding room assignments, contracts, and billing. The Village underscores a commitment to inclusivity, with all programs and services being accessible and respectful of all identities, in line with the University of California’s nondiscrimination policies. #StudentHousing #UniversityHousing #UCSC #ApartmentStyleLiving #CommunityLiving #SharedHousing #ResidentialLife #CampusAmenities #TransferStudents

George J. Kacek Hall, an Illinois Tech residential building, opened in August 2020. Named after alumnus George J. Kacek (EE ’54, M.S. ’55), the hall represents a revitalization of a legacy Ludwig Mies van der Rohe building. The renovation was overseen by alumnus and College of Architecture Professor Dirk Denison. The building integrates classic modernism with contemporary living standards, primarily catering to first- and second-year students. Its design emphasizes social interaction and academic support, featuring two large lounges on each floor. The 'social lounges' are situated on the south side of the building, while the 'study lounges' are located on the north side, offering views of downtown Chicago. Kacek Hall provides a variety of living arrangements, including single-, double-, and triple-occupancy rooms, all sharing common-use bathrooms. Each residential space is furnished with a twin-size bed, a desk, a chair, a dresser, and closet space for each resident. The beds are designed to be bunkable, providing flexibility for room configuration. The facility ensures student safety and convenience with 24-hour staffing by Community Desk Assistants, requiring HawkCard tap access at the main entrance and community desk. Beyond living spaces, the hall offers comprehensive amenities designed to enhance the student experience. These include lounge areas on every floor for relaxation and community building, as well as laundry and fitness facilities conveniently located in the lower level. High-speed internet access and cable TV services are provided by Comcast, ensuring students have reliable connectivity and entertainment options. The hall's commitment to creating a well-rounded living environment is further supported by its unique architectural design. The residential floors are configured in a “pod-style” arrangement, where student rooms are organized around central study and social lounge areas. This innovative layout allows corridors and shared spaces to receive natural light and views from all four sides of the building. This design choice aims to mitigate a common drawback of traditional dormitory living—the lack of natural light—thereby creating a more inviting and comfortable atmosphere for residents. The hall's room dimensions are approximately: Single Room: 9' 8" wide X 11' 6" deep X 8' high, with a closet of 41" wide X 22" deep X 7' 1" high. Double Room: 9' 5" wide X 11' 6" deep X 8' high, with a closet of 52" wide X 22" deep X 7' 1" high. Triple Room: 9' 10" wide X 22' deep X 7' 1" high, with a closet of 18' 9" wide X 11' 7" deep X 8' high. #StudentHousing #UniversityLife #ArchitecturalRenovation #ModernistDesign #CampusAmenities #ResidentialLiving #IllinoisTech

The Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) offers a distinct first-year housing experience at its Hive complex, a significant departure from traditional college dormitories. Unlike the varied, traditional-style options at institutions like RISD, the majority of SCAD's first-year students are accommodated in the Hive, a modern, co-ed facility designed with a boutique hotel aesthetic rather than a typical student residence. The complex is composed of eight identical four-story buildings, each bearing a bee-themed name, such as Apiary, Bumble, and Honey. While Colony is reserved for upperclassmen and Dance for transfer students, the remaining buildings primarily house freshmen. Each suite within the Hive is designed for four students and features two double-occupancy rooms. A notable aspect of the design is the thoughtful layout that addresses common dormitory inconveniences. Specifically, the shower, toilet, and main bathroom sink are strategically placed in separate rooms, mitigating congestion and allowing multiple students to use facilities simultaneously. Additionally, a small kitchen sink adjacent to the bathroom offers an alternative for tasks like teeth brushing, further enhancing functionality. Each suite also includes a living room furnished with a couch, end tables, a coffee table, and a wall-mounted shelf suitable for a flat-screen TV. Individual residents are provided with an extra-long twin-size bed, a desk and chair, and a wardrobe with drawers, ensuring personal space and storage. Beyond the individual suites, the Hive complex boasts a comprehensive array of amenities. Every building is ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for all students. Common facilities include a dining hall and a coffee shop, catering to students' culinary needs. For recreation and convenience, the complex features an on-site fitness center, a swimming pool, and laundry facilities with both SCAD Card and coin-operated machines. Vending machines for drinks and snacks are also available. Recognizing the importance of connectivity and modern services, the rooms are equipped with wireless internet access and cable television service. Furthermore, given Georgia's climate, all rooms are air-conditioned, and the Hive even functions as an Amazon Locker location, adding an extra layer of convenience for package deliveries. On-site security measures are in place to ensure a safe living environment for all residents. This meticulous attention to design and a wide range of amenities positions the Hive as a residential complex that prioritizes both functionality and comfort, offering an elevated living experience for SCAD's first-year students that aligns with contemporary living standards rather than conventional dormitory expectations. #SCAD #StudentHousing #DormDesign #ModernArchitecture #InteriorDesign #CampusLife #DesignEducation #ResidentialAmenities

Patrick Blanc, a botanist renowned for over 30 years of creating vertical gardens, has transformed Parisian walls, most notably at the Jean Nouvel–designed Quai Branly museum. One family, the Dimanches, has the unique privilege of experiencing Blanc's vertical gardens within their own living space. Blanc, identifiable by his distinctive style, has cultivated a reputation as an urban garden guru, utilizing a trademark top-down irrigation system and three decades of botanical research across three continents. His portfolio includes creations for the Pershing Hall hotel, the Fondation Cartier in Paris, the Siam Paragon mall in Bangkok, various boutiques, and restaurants. Following the grand opening of the Jean Nouvel–designed Musée du Quai Branly in Paris, featuring an 8,600-square-foot facade with 15,000 plants, Blanc has seen an influx of large-scale commissions. Blanc's journey began with residential projects, starting with his own apartment in Créteil, on the outskirts of Paris, which he transformed into a tropical rainforest. While major commissions later became his focus, some homeowners successfully convinced him to create outdoor vertical gardens, aiming to introduce a 'rural' element into their urban environments. However, his expertise in indoor vertical gardens, particularly with low-light plants, remained largely untapped until 2004. This changed when Jean-Marc Dimanche contacted Blanc with an idea for a 20-by-23-foot interior wall in his 4,400-square-foot home, then under construction in the Left Bank’s 14th arrondissement. Dimanche recounts Blanc's enthusiastic response, signaling the start of their collaborative adventure. Two years later, the Dimanches' home now features a lush forest canopy, a living canvas comprising approximately 150 tropical, low-light plant species harmoniously arranged. The vertical garden transitions from a field of texture at the base to arcs of violet and amber flowers, culminating in an overhang of trees near the ceiling, creating a sheltering forest effect. This living element seamlessly integrates with the home's raw architectural features, such as concrete and metal beams, and a transparent glass elevator, as well as the family's personal belongings, including country-kitchen stools, orchids, and worn leather armchairs. Jean-Marc Dimanche finds the overall effect to be very calming. The Dimanches' move from a renovated longère outside Rambouillet to their new Parisian home represented a significant lifestyle shift. Vivette Dimanche emphasizes that their house is not merely conceptual but embodies 'le vivant, le vécu' — the living, the lived experience. Given Paris's high population density, Blanc's plant walls offer a solution to integrate nature into the urban fabric without negating the city's structure. Blanc aims to extend his work beyond homes and museums to less aesthetically pleasing urban locations like parking lots, public housing, and train stations, areas where living things are unexpected. He asserts that his plant walls are not a critique of urban life but an effort to reconcile it with nature, creating spaces that foster a connection between the urban environment and the natural world. #VerticalGarden #PatrickBlanc #IndoorGarden #UrbanGreenery #HomeDesign #ParisianLiving #BiophilicDesign #InteriorPlants #LivingWalls

The article details the transformation of a lower-level space into a multi-purpose, family-friendly media room by designer Rajni Alex. Initially, the house lacked a sufficiently expansive area for large gatherings like movie nights or Super Bowl parties, with existing family rooms and reading spaces being too small for 'big' entertaining. The chosen location for the new lounge, at the end of a lower-level hallway with direct access to the backyard, offered an ideal setting for group activities. To achieve an elevated lounge aesthetic, Alex implemented several design elements. A metallic ombré wallcovering by Phillip Jeffries was installed above a curved seating bank, complemented by cubbies featuring soft-glow LED lighting. The ceiling was adorned with a faux suede material, selected for its realistic appearance and lighter weight. Additional walls received textural treatments through striated grasscloth and a layered plaster-and-paint hatchwork pattern, ensuring visual cohesion despite their individual characteristics. The designer aimed for the wallcoverings to possess unique identities while harmoniously blending together, creating an environment that feels both sophisticated and inviting. For the media aspect of the room, a custom console with a TV lift was developed in collaboration with Walker Woodworking. This innovative design allows the television to be concealed when not in use, integrating it seamlessly into the room's decor as a piece of furniture. To enhance the theatrical experience, chocolate brown draperies, lined with trim designed by Ben Johnston for S. Harris, were added to both sides of the space. These design choices collectively contribute to a sense of being enveloped in comfort, which was a key objective for Alex. The lounge also features a five-foot wide, organically shaped chandelier from Visual Comfort & Co., designed to mimic branches, adding both architectural interest and a sculptural element while maintaining a modern feel. A 16.5-foot armless sofa, upholstered in burnt orange mohair, serves as a central point for relaxation, capable of accommodating multiple people for various activities. This area can be easily reconfigured for cocktail seating with the introduction of sleek drink tables and pattern-backed swivel chairs. A 48-inch midcentury-style shagreen pedestal table from Elan Atelier is designated for card games or backgammon, further enhancing the room's versatility. Velour draperies contribute to the luxurious screening-room ambiance. Additional seating is provided by two barrel-back swivel chairs, offering views of either the surroundings or the fireplace. The flooring consists of a plush yet durable JD Staron indoor-outdoor area rug layered over a Fibreworks rug, chosen for its resilience against spills and its ability to withstand foot traffic, reflecting a practical approach to design without compromising comfort. The fireplace surround is crafted from Cosentino and Architectural Grille products. Key components and furnishings throughout the lounge include a Bernhardt sofa with S. Harris fabric, Harlequin pillow fabrics, Coley Home chairs with Fabricut and S. Harris fabrics, Uttermost tables, and S. Harris drapery fabric and trim. Accessories were sourced from Wayfair Professional, West Elm, and Accent Decor. The custom cabinet was created by Walker Woodworking, housing a Samsung TV, with hardware by Philip Watts Design and art by Angela Simeone from Minted. The bar area features a reflective, tile-like wallcovering from Zoffany as a backsplash, with glassware from Replacements, Ltd., Kohler fixtures, an Architectural Grille shelf railing, and a Cosentino countertop. The millwork is painted in Grate Black from Farrow & Ball, and the bar art is by Amanda Carol. These selections emphasize a blend of luxury, functionality, and family-friendliness. #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #MediaRoom #LoungeDesign #FamilyFriendly #CustomFurniture #Wallcoverings #TexturalDesign #LuxuryInteriors

Stabile Hall, inaugurated in the Fall of 1999 and named in honor of an Engineering School alumnus and donor, is a residential facility at Pratt Institute primarily designed for new undergraduate students. It accommodates approximately 250 first-year students within four to five-person suites. Each suite is comprised of either two joined double rooms or a combined double and triple room, and includes a private bathroom, for which residents are responsible for maintaining its cleanliness. The typical room dimensions, excluding a small entry foyer, are 12 feet by 12 feet. The building's design has received accolades, featuring kitchenettes on every floor and a substantial common lounge on the ground floor. Additionally, smaller workrooms and lounge areas are distributed across the upper floors, fostering a conducive environment for both living and studying. All rooms are equipped with air conditioning, which provides heating during colder periods. Stabile Hall actively supports a Healthy Choices Community and hosts First-Year Cohort Living Learning Communities, promoting a holistic and integrated student experience. It remains closed during the summer months, except for specific conference groups. Each resident room is furnished with standard campus provisions, including an extra-long twin bed, a dresser, a desk, a chair, and a bookshelf. The hall offers amenities such as a basement laundry facility and comprehensive Wi-Fi access throughout the building. Students residing in Stabile Hall are mandated to subscribe to a meal plan provided by Avi Fresh. Information regarding the associated costs for living in Stabile Hall is available through the residential life and housing department. Prospective residents can view a video tour of Stabile Hall on YouTube and access detailed floor plans online. #StudentHousing #PrattInstitute #ResidenceLife #FirstYearStudents #CampusAmenities #AwardWinningDesign #LivingLearningCommunity #StudentAccommodation