On January 9th, CREW Boston hosted a dynamic and insightful panel discussion with four prominent academic industry leaders, moderated by Maureen McCaffrey, Director at MIT Investment Management Company. The session focused on the complexities of student housing, delving into various key areas such as current demand, innovative models, design considerations, and ongoing challenges.
Panelists included:
- Barbara Kroncke, Esq., Executive Director of the University of Massachusetts Building Authority
- Cameron Borgasano, Director of Undergraduate House Renewal Program, Harvard University
- Maureen Hickey, Assistant Vice President – Development Initiatives, Northeastern University Planning Real Estate and Facilities
- Melissa Stopa, AICP, Senior Campus Planner, MIT
The event began with each panelist providing an overview of relevant statistics such as student enrollment figures and recent or upcoming projects. The conversation quickly shifted to the current and future demand for student housing, with panelists offering their perspectives on the rising need for diverse housing options and the challenges universities face in meeting that demand.
A significant portion of the discussion focused on innovative models for delivering student housing. The panel explored the benefits of Public-Private Partnerships (P3s), with each panelist sharing their experiences. Melissa discussed her work with a P3 model at MIT’s graduate dorms, comparing it to traditional project delivery. The panel also explored the important distinction between replacement versus renewal in deciding whether to renovate or replace existing buildings. Factors such as the building’s condition, student needs, and long-term sustainability played a key role in these decisions.
Student experience was another focal point of the conversation, particularly how design decisions are influenced by the expectations of students. Post-COVID, there has been an increased focus on mental health, with amenities that promote well-being becoming a priority. The panel discussed trends like more community spaces, such as the climbing wall at UMASS, smaller spaces for socializing, and functional areas like mailrooms that serve as central gathering hubs. Private call spaces and collision spaces for spontaneous interactions were also highlighted as essential components of modern student housing.
Lastly, the panel touched on ongoing challenges in the student housing sector, such as affordability, varying lease durations, and the role housing plays in the decision-making process for both students and parents.
Overall, the discussion provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of student housing, emphasizing the importance of innovation, student well-being, and flexibility in meeting future demand.
