Moving into student accommodation is an exciting step in your university journey, but those plain white walls, basic furniture, and slightly clinical lighting can sometimes make it feel far from cosy.
For many students, it’s a shock to go from the familiarity of their own bedroom at home to a space that feels temporary and impersonal. The good news is that you don’t need to spend a fortune – or risk your deposit – to make your room feel warm, inviting, and uniquely yours.
With a few simple touches and some creative thinking, you can transform your accommodation into a home away from home.
Soft furnishings are one of the quickest and most effective ways to change the feel of a room. A carefully chosen duvet cover can instantly inject personality and style into your space, while a throw blanket draped across the bed adds both comfort and colour.
Rugs are another game changer, particularly if your floor is cold or worn, as they introduce warmth and texture while hiding any less-than-perfect surfaces.
Layering cushions in different fabrics and sizes can make your bed or seating area look more inviting, and mixing textures such as knits, velvet, and linen creates depth.
These small additions don’t just improve aesthetics – they make your room feel softer, warmer, and more like a place you want to spend time in. And because they’re portable, you can take them with you wherever you move next.
The harsh, bright overhead lighting that often comes with student rooms is practical, but it’s rarely relaxing. Introducing your own lighting sources can instantly make your room feel warmer and more welcoming.
Fairy lights are a timeless student favourite, adding a soft glow and a sense of cosiness. A desk lamp with a warm bulb can create a focused yet soothing environment for studying, while a floor lamp can help fill the room with gentle, ambient light.
If you like a modern touch, LED strip lighting is a fun way to bring colour to your space – perfect for placing under shelves or along a desk. Even small changes to lighting can transform the atmosphere from “temporary” to “homely” without the need for any permanent alterations.
Many student accommodation contracts forbid nails or screws in the walls, but that doesn’t mean you have to live with blank, uninspiring surfaces.
Command hooks and adhesive strips allow you to hang lightweight frames, artwork, or mirrors without causing any damage. A photo collage is a great way to display memories from home, holidays, and nights out, arranged in a creative shape or grid to give a more personal feel.
For a bold statement, a wall tapestry or large fabric hanging can cover a lot of empty space with colour and texture. Removable wall decals or vinyl quotes offer another way to customise your space, and if you like versatility, a corkboard or wire photo grid allows you to swap out pictures, postcards, or notes whenever you feel like a change.
Plants are a simple yet effective way to make a room feel fresh and alive. If you’re confident in your ability to care for them, low-maintenance options like succulents, aloe vera, or spider plants are ideal. They require minimal watering and can thrive even in low light.
For those who want the look without the responsibility, high-quality artificial plants have become incredibly realistic and require zero upkeep.
If you enjoy cooking, a small herb plant such as basil or mint adds a touch of green to your room and can be useful in the kitchen too. Whether real or artificial, plants bring softness and colour to your space, helping it feel less like temporary accommodation and more like a lived-in home.
Your sense of smell plays a powerful role in how a place feels. Bringing familiar scents into your room can help it feel more comforting and personal.
Reed diffusers and plug-in air fresheners offer a steady release of fragrance without the risks associated with candles, which are often not allowed in student accommodation. Fabric sprays can be used on bedding and soft furnishings to keep everything smelling fresh.
A clever trick is to put a few drops of essential oil on a cotton pad and place it behind your radiator – when the heat comes on, it will gently diffuse the scent into the room. Subtle, pleasant fragrances can make your accommodation feel far more welcoming and familiar.
In a small space, clutter can quickly make things feel chaotic. Thoughtful storage solutions not only keep things tidy but can also add to the overall look of your room.
Matching baskets or fabric boxes create a sense of order and can be tucked away under the bed or on shelves. Over-door hooks make use of otherwise wasted space, keeping coats, bags, and dressing gowns off the floor.
If you need more storage, bed risers can create valuable space underneath without altering the furniture. Pegboards are another versatile option, helping you organise stationery, jewellery, or even kitchen utensils in a stylish and accessible way.
By keeping your belongings organised, you’ll create a calmer and more comfortable environment.
Your desk will likely be where you spend a lot of time studying, so making it appealing is important.
A desk mat can add a pop of colour while protecting the surface. Pen pots, organisers, or even a favourite mug can keep your stationery tidy and within reach. Adding an inspirational quote in a small frame can serve as a daily boost of motivation, and a mini noticeboard is perfect for reminders or deadlines.
You can also inject some creativity by using washi tape to decorate the edges of shelves or drawers. It’s easy to remove and won’t leave marks, allowing you to personalise your desk without breaking any rules.
When homesickness hits, small reminders of your home environment can make a big difference.
This could be a framed family photo, a much-loved blanket, or even your favourite mug. These personal items carry emotional comfort and help create a sense of belonging in your new space.
It doesn’t take much – just a few sentimental touches can make your accommodation feel less like a stopgap and more like your own personal sanctuary.
One of the joys of personalising your space is the ability to switch it up whenever you like.
In the colder months, you can embrace warmer tones, add extra blankets, and make use of fairy lights for a cosy atmosphere. In spring and summer, you might choose lighter colours, fresh flowers, and brighter accents to reflect the change in season.
This flexibility keeps your environment feeling fresh and inspiring, preventing it from becoming stale or uninspiring over time.
If you share a kitchen or living area, adding a few homely touches there can make a big difference to how you and your flatmates interact.
A shared noticeboard for meal plans, cleaning schedules, or even funny photos can help build a sense of community. Throw blankets or cushions in the living room can turn a standard sofa into a cosy hangout spot.
Even seasonal decorations – such as fairy lights at Christmas or bunting for a celebration – can make communal areas more inviting, encouraging people to spend more time together and helping to foster friendships.
Making your student accommodation feel like home doesn’t require a big student budget or drastic changes. By focusing on comfort, lighting, organisation, personal touches, and seasonal updates, you can create a warm and inviting space that reflects your personality.
Ultimately, your room is more than just a place to sleep – it’s where you’ll study, relax, socialise, and create memories. The more it reflects you, the more you’ll enjoy spending time there, and the better your overall student experience will be.
Read MoreHeading off to university is one of life’s biggest milestones – exciting, nerve-wracking, and a little bit overwhelming all at once.
For many students, it’s the first time living away from home, and packing up your life into a few boxes can feel like a mammoth task.
Whether you’re a student preparing for the move or a parent trying to make sure nothing gets forgotten, this guide offers a practical, down-to-earth checklist for what to bring, what to leave behind, and how to make the most of limited space in student accommodation.
Before you begin cramming boxes with last-minute extras, it’s important to start with the absolute must-haves. These are the things that’ll help you get through your first few weeks without any hiccups.
From a practical point of view, this includes your key documents – things like your university acceptance letter, ID, and student finance information. It’s a smart idea to keep them all in one clearly labelled folder so they’re easy to access during enrolment or when registering with local services.
Equally vital are the basics for sleeping and living. Most student rooms won’t come with bedding, so you’ll need to bring your own duvet, pillows, sheets and covers. A mattress protector is also highly recommended, especially when moving into shared or pre-used accommodation.
Little tip: A couple of sets will do the trick – no need to bring the whole linen cupboard.
When it comes to kitchenware, it’s best to think minimal and functional. While it’s tempting to bring a full dinner set or those quirky baking gadgets you love at home, you’ll quickly realise that space is tight and storage is shared.
A couple of plates, a bowl, one or two glasses and mugs, and a basic set of cutlery will cover your daily needs. Add to that a saucepan, a frying pan, and perhaps a baking tray, and you’re good to go. Most freshers stick to simple meals in the first term – pasta, toast, and noodles are student classics for a reason.
Don’t forget to include small but useful extras like a tea towel, a bottle of washing-up liquid, and some sponges. These items might sound minor, but they’ll save you a late-night dash to the nearest corner shop when you realise your dishes are piling up.
When packing clothes, aim for practicality over fashion fantasy. You won’t need ten pairs of shoes or every coat you own.
Think in terms of what you’ll actually wear day-to-day – comfortable outfits for lectures, a few smarter pieces for nights out or job interviews, and plenty of warm layers for winter. Loungewear and pyjamas are also essential for down-time in halls, and don’t forget gym gear if you plan on using the university facilities.
It’s worth remembering that laundry may become a weekly (or fortnightly!) event, so pack enough underwear and socks to get you through without a crisis. Also, if you’re sharing a bathroom or using communal showers, flip-flops are a great idea, as is a personal bathroom caddy to carry toiletries back and forth.
Your laptop will probably be your most-used item, so don’t forget its charger, along with any accessories like headphones or USB sticks.
Universities often have computer suites and printers, so bringing your own printer isn’t essential unless you know you’ll need it frequently. Extension leads are surprisingly useful, as most student rooms never seem to have enough plug sockets – especially if you’re juggling phone chargers, lamps and laptops.
A small amount of stationery is also handy, including pens, notebooks, and highlighters. You don’t need to go overboard on supplies – you can always top up as term progresses – but having the basics means you’ll feel prepared from the first lecture.
Student rooms are famously plain and boxy, but a few personal touches can make a big difference.
Photos of family and friends, fairy lights, a noticeboard, or even a small plant can help your new space feel more comfortable. Storage items like under-bed boxes or over-the-door hooks will also be a lifesaver when trying to organise your limited space.
Little things like a soft blanket, your favourite mug, or a familiar pillow can make you feel more settled during those early homesick days. Don’t underestimate the comfort that familiar items can bring in a new and unfamiliar environment.
It’s easy to go into overdrive and pack for every possible scenario, but overpacking only creates clutter and stress.
Kitchen gadgets like blenders, rice cookers, or toastie makers often end up unused or taking up valuable space. Unless you’re absolutely sure you’ll use them regularly, leave them behind and see how you get on.
You also don’t need to bring every piece of clothing you own. If you’re unsure whether to pack something, ask yourself: when did I last wear this? If it’s been more than a few months, it’s probably not coming out at uni either.
Books are another bulky item that are often unnecessary. Most course materials are available online or in the library, and your reading list will become clearer once lectures begin. Wait until you know what’s needed before investing in expensive textbooks.
Avoid packing anything that’s irreplaceable or deeply sentimental. Halls can be hectic, and accidents happen. Keep valuables at home and travel light when it comes to treasured possessions.
At the end of the day, moving to university is about more than just bringing stuff – it’s about starting a new chapter and learning how to live independently. You won’t get it perfect the first time, and that’s okay. What matters is arriving prepared, with the basics sorted, and the confidence to figure the rest out along the way.
With this guide in hand, you’ll avoid common packing pitfalls, arrive with everything you truly need, and give yourself the best start to uni life. So take a breath, pack smart, and get ready for a fantastic adventure ahead.
Read MoreAs the academic year draws to a close, thousands of students across the United Kingdom begin the annual ritual of packing up and returning home for the summer.
For many first-year and international students, this might be the first time they’ve experienced the mass departure that transforms once-bustling university towns into quieter, slower-paced places. But what happens to all the student accommodation left behind?
From empty halls of residence to privately rented houses and purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), summer creates a distinct lull in occupancy. While some rooms remain untouched until September, others enter a new cycle – hosting short-lets, sublets, summer school students, or even tourists.
For students in privately rented accommodation with 12-month contracts, the summer period can seem financially frustrating, especially if they’ve gone home and aren’t using the space. This has led to a growing trend of subletting – renting out your room for the summer to cover costs.
Subletting can be a win-win: it provides temporary accommodation for interns, language school students, or tourists, while helping the original tenant recoup some rent. However, it’s essential to tread carefully. Most tenancy agreements explicitly prohibit subletting without the landlord’s permission.
Doing so without consent could breach the terms of your lease, lead to fines, or even eviction. For those considering this route, always check your agreement and get written permission.
Landlords themselves, particularly those managing PBSA blocks, often take control of this process by offering short-term lets directly. These can include summer schools, postgraduate pre-sessional courses, or conference attendees.
The rooms may be rented on a nightly or weekly basis, often with flexible terms and all bills included.
Another factor that comes into play over summer is property security.
Vacant student homes, particularly in areas with high concentrations of student lets, can become easy targets for burglaries or vandalism. Students returning home often leave valuable items behind, under the assumption that their accommodation is safe.
Landlords and property managers typically ramp up security during this period by encouraging students to take valuables home, locking windows and doors, and in some cases, installing temporary surveillance.
It’s also advisable for students to inform neighbours or letting agents if the property will be unoccupied, so any suspicious activity can be flagged quickly.
For those staying in their student home during the summer – perhaps for work placements, part-time jobs, or travel convenience – it can actually be a quieter and more peaceful time. With fewer flatmates around and reduced noise, summer can be an ideal time to focus on personal projects, applications, or simply enjoy the city without the usual crowds.
International students often face a different set of circumstances over the summer. While some fly home to spend time with family, others may stay due to visa restrictions, work placements, or the high cost of international travel.
Some universities offer summer accommodation options either in halls or nearby short-term housing, often with flexible contract dates and competitive pricing.
For international students in private accommodation, communicating with landlords early on can open the door to options such as a rent reduction for the summer or arranging a sublet with the landlord’s help.
Additionally, summer presents an opportunity for international students to explore the UK more freely. From internships and volunteering to travel and academic courses, staying over the summer can be both enriching and practical.
First-year students living in university halls often have fixed-term contracts that end at the close of the academic year, typically in June or July. Once the term ends, they’re expected to move out – readying the room for summer programmes or maintenance work.
If you’re heading into your first year, it’s worth understanding that most student halls do not permit storing items over the summer.
Students are often required to fully vacate their rooms, which means arranging transport or temporary storage for belongings. Many local storage companies cater to students during this time with collection and delivery services.
Planning ahead can save time and stress. If you know you’ll be returning to the same city for a second year, securing your next accommodation before summer can ease the transition and offer peace of mind.
Summer is a season of transition for student housing. While some properties fall silent, others take on a new life – hosting summer scholars, interns, or even curious tourists.
For students, understanding what happens to their accommodation during this time can help with financial planning, logistics, and peace of mind.
Whether you’re leaving your room behind or staying put, the key to navigating student housing over the summer is communication – be it with landlords, letting agents, or your university.
By staying informed and planning ahead, you can make the most of this quieter season, whether you’re using it for rest, work, or exploration.
Read MoreThe student housing crisis has become a growing concern across the UK, leaving many prospective students and their families worried about finding suitable accommodation during their university years.
Rising rents, limited availability, and increased competition for student housing have made the process of securing a place to live more challenging. But don’t panic – help is on the way!
Both universities and the government are stepping up with new initiatives and programs to tackle the issue and ensure that students can focus on their studies without worrying about a roof over their heads.
Before diving into the solutions, let’s take a quick look at why this crisis exists. Over the past few years, the number of university applicants has surged, with the UK attracting both domestic and international students.
However, the supply of affordable, student-friendly housing hasn’t kept pace with this demand. Coupled with inflation and rising living costs, finding reasonably priced accommodation has become a daunting task.
But here’s the good news: universities and the government are well aware of the problem, and they’re making strides to address it.
Many UK universities have recognised the urgent need to expand their on-campus accommodation options.
From purpose-built student housing to revamped existing facilities, institutions are increasing the number of available rooms to ensure students have a safe and convenient place to live.
For example, the University of Manchester recently announced plans to build 4,000 new on-campus student rooms by 2026, prioritising affordability and sustainability. Similarly, the University of Glasgow has invested millions into renovating older halls of residence, creating modern, comfortable living spaces for its students.
These developments are great news for students, as on-campus housing is often more affordable than private rentals and comes with added benefits like proximity to lectures and campus facilities.
To further bridge the gap, many universities are forming partnerships with private developers to create purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA). Unlike traditional student rentals, PBSAs are designed specifically with students in mind, offering amenities such as study areas, gyms, and communal spaces.
In Birmingham, for instance, Aston University has teamed up with private housing providers to deliver affordable student flats near the city centre.
The collaboration has resulted in high-quality housing at competitive prices, making life easier for students while easing the pressure on universities to meet housing demand single-handedly.
The UK government has also rolled up its sleeves to tackle the student housing crisis. Recognising that housing shortages could deter students from pursuing higher education, the government has rolled out several measures to address the issue.
One key initiative is the introduction of low-interest loans for student housing projects, encouraging developers to build more affordable accommodation.
Furthermore, the government has also launched a task force to identify regions most affected by the crisis and provide tailored solutions, such as fast-tracking planning permissions for student housing developments.
Additionally, some local councils are working closely with universities to allocate unused public buildings, such as former office spaces, for conversion into student accommodation. This creative reuse of existing infrastructure is helping to provide more housing options without significant delays.
While many students prefer university-provided housing, private rentals remain a popular choice for those seeking more independence.
Recognising the challenges in this market – such as high rents and limited availability – both universities and student unions are offering increased support.
Many universities now provide dedicated housing teams to assist students in navigating the rental market. For example, the University of Leeds runs workshops on finding and securing private rentals, while the University of Bristol has introduced a “Housing Guarantee Scheme” to ensure every first-year student has access to a safe, vetted rental property.
Additionally, organisations like Shelter and the National Union of Students (NUS) have developed online resources to educate students about their rights as tenants and how to avoid common pitfalls.
The student housing sector is also benefiting from innovation, with co-living spaces and housing apps gaining popularity.
Co-living spaces, which offer shared accommodation with communal facilities, are an increasingly affordable and social option for students. Companies like our team at Loc8me are leading the way, providing purpose-built co-living spaces across the UK.
Meanwhile, housing apps like Uniplaces and SpareRoom make it easier than ever to find suitable accommodation.
These platforms allow students to search for properties based on their budget and preferences, connect with potential flatmates, and even schedule viewings – all from the comfort of their phones.
Although the student housing crisis is a complex issue, the steps being taken by universities, the government, and private developers are reassuring. With a range of new projects underway and increased support for students in the rental market, the outlook is positive.
If you’re heading to university soon, don’t worry – help is available. Take advantage of your university’s housing services, start your search early, and explore the innovative options now available.
Remember, this is an exciting time in your life, and there’s no shortage of people and organisations dedicated to ensuring you have a great place to call home.
Read MorePurpose Built Student Accommodation, commonly known as PBSA, has rapidly grown in popularity among students worldwide, changing how student housing is perceived and experienced.
PBSA refers to properties specifically designed and developed to cater to the unique needs of students, in contrast to standard private rentals or traditional university dorms. These modern accommodations often include a wide range of amenities and are located strategically to offer convenient access to university campuses.
With a strong focus on student comfort, study needs, and social life, PBSA has become a sought-after option, although it comes with its own set of benefits and drawbacks.
This article explores what PBSA is, how it compares to traditional housing, and the impact it may have on the future of student accommodation.
Purpose Built Student Accommodation differs from traditional student housing in several key ways. While private rentals or university dorms may meet basic living needs, PBSA is intentionally designed to support student lifestyles.
From prime locations near universities to thoughtful designs that include study spaces, social lounges, and on-site amenities, PBSA buildings aim to provide a holistic student experience.
Located close to campuses or within easy reach of academic resources, PBSAs minimise commuting time, which can be a significant advantage for students balancing classes, assignments, and extracurricular activities.
While traditional off-campus housing is often spread across neighbourhoods and lacks this intentional proximity, PBSA’s location-centric design can help reduce travel costs and commuting times, a welcome benefit for time-strapped students.
One of the most appealing aspects of PBSA is the wealth of amenities it offers. While a traditional rental might come with only basic utilities, PBSA buildings are often equipped with high-speed internet, laundry rooms, study lounges, gyms, and social spaces. Some even offer features such as cinemas, gaming rooms, and on-site cafes.
For students, these amenities help balance academic and social life, creating a more enjoyable and cohesive living environment. By contrast, in a typical private rental, students may need to look for external services to access gyms, study spaces, or entertainment options, which are often not conveniently available under one roof.
Security is another defining feature of PBSA. Safety measures such as 24/7 CCTV, secure entry systems, and on-site staff create a secure environment, which is reassuring for students and their families alike. For international students or those new to city life, this added level of safety is a significant advantage.
While traditional housing can also offer security, it often lacks the coordinated level of protection that PBSA provides, relying instead on independent landlord arrangements or private security systems, which may not always be as reliable.
Lastly, PBSA properties typically offer an all-inclusive rental structure. This means that in addition to rent, the costs for utilities, internet, and, in some cases, amenities like gym access are included in one monthly payment.
For students on a budget, this is advantageous because it simplifies budgeting, eliminating surprise utility bills or fees. Conversely, private rentals often require tenants to pay for utilities and services separately, which can be both unpredictable and difficult to budget.
PBSA brings several benefits to students, primarily through the convenience and student-centric environment it offers. The all-inclusive rent model means students have one fixed payment, reducing financial stress and making budgeting more straightforward.
Additionally, the strategic location and on-site amenities allow students to save time and focus more on academics or personal interests, rather than managing household logistics.
The sense of community fostered within PBSAs is another significant benefit. Many PBSA buildings create opportunities for students to connect through shared social spaces and organised events, making it easier to form friendships and support networks.
For students new to the area, especially international students, this community aspect can ease the transition and reduce feelings of isolation.
However, PBSA also has its setbacks. The cost of PBSA can be a deterrent for some students, as the premium amenities and central locations mean that it is often more expensive than traditional housing.
Although the all-inclusive model can help manage expenses, the higher base price may still be prohibitive for those on tight budgets. Moreover, students might find themselves paying for amenities they do not use, such as gyms or social spaces, which could feel like an unnecessary expense.
Another limitation of PBSA is the lack of personalisation. These buildings tend to have a standardised design, so while they offer comfort and functionality, they may lack the character and customisation options available in a private rental.
Students with a strong preference for personalising their living space might find PBSA somewhat restrictive compared to the flexibility of a private rental.
The rise of PBSA has had a transformative effect on the student housing market. With its student-focused approach and higher standards, PBSA has set new expectations, pushing universities and private landlords to upgrade their offerings.
Many universities now invest in on-campus accommodations that feature amenities similar to PBSA, aiming to attract students who want a modern, comfortable living experience. This trend has increased competition in the housing market, leading to a greater variety of high-quality options for students.
The increasing popularity of PBSA has also influenced how students approach housing. In the past, students might have prioritised affordability and location as primary factors, but now, amenities and security have become crucial considerations.
This shift means that students are increasingly valuing their living environment as an essential part of their university experience, rather than simply a place to stay.
As the demand for high-quality, student-oriented housing continues to rise, PBSA is likely to grow further in popularity. Real estate developers are investing more in PBSA facilities, with many new buildings incorporating sustainable designs, smart technology, and enhanced mental health support services.
The future of PBSA could also see a push toward affordability, making these facilities accessible to a wider range of students, possibly through partnerships with universities or government funding initiatives.
Furthermore, the flexibility of PBSA developments allows them to evolve with changing student needs. As students increasingly prioritise mental well-being, flexible study arrangements, and community involvement, PBSA has the potential to expand its offerings to include mental health resources, quiet zones, and events that support academic success and personal growth.
With these advancements, PBSA is set to become not only a place to live but a supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.
Purpose Built Student Accommodation has introduced a new standard in student housing by offering convenience, security, and community in a single package. For students seeking a streamlined, supportive living environment that caters to their unique needs, PBSA provides an attractive option.
However, while the all-inclusive model and social aspects are appealing, students must consider the higher costs and potential limitations on personalisation before making a choice.
As PBSA continues to grow and adapt, it holds promise for enhancing the student experience and shaping the future of student housing. By balancing cost, convenience, and personal preference, students can make the most of their university experience in an environment that supports both academic and personal success.
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