Campus HK opened this June, located in the heart of Tsuen Wan, as Hong Kong’s first shared accommodation service specifically created for students. The space was incepted in light of a rising need for affordable and convenient student housing, due to the influx of university students in Hong Kong in recent years.

Developed and designed by GCP Hospitality, the residence is modern, vibrant and energetic, where clever space distribution allows optimal functionality. “The functionality of each part of the room was thought out, down to the last detail. For example, each bed area is equipped with its own dedicated bed light and USB charger at pillow level, along a full length black-out curtain to enable each student to relax, sleep, read, play on the internet, without being disturbed by others and giving them full independence when needed,” says Marc Bichet, Vice-President of marketing and branding at GCP Hospitality. Extra shelving on the bed area also enables students to have their belongings within easy reach, without needing to go out of their bed.

The layout of the space was carefully managed to ensure that the small space was well utilised: showers and kitchenette separate from the main living space while each student had their private space. The prime feature of the campus is a communal area to encourage students to connect and interact. “The rooms that we converted are 15 years old – they have aged and damaged. We basically had to pull everything out and start from scratch,” says Bichet on the original state of the premise.

The urban style of the Campus reflects the cityscape views seen through the windows of the accommodation. This is achieved through the use of wood and cement as its core material palette. Graffiti walls, graphical curtains and accessories with dashes of colour provide a homely touch. Aside from the hanging lights above the communal table, desk lamps and SMEG fridges, all furniture and fittings of the Campus were custom-made.

“GCP Hospitality wanted to create a product that was modern and had a strong appeal for students aged 16 to 25 with enough space to sleep, study and socialize. The socializing is key here, as we really wanted to create something that was not only a space to sleep but an actual community of young people,” says Bichet.