Header: Stevie Campbell
Nottingham’s newest student accommodation, ‘The Place,’ brought stylish design and well-thought-out amenities to the popular London neighborhood. The new-build scheme was designed by Belfast-based architects Consarc, with all interior design, from room finishes to the scheme’s showstopping amenity spaces on the ground floor and the rooftop terrace, by multi-award-winning interiors consultancy Ekho Studio.
This 11-story building offers 409 student rooms and a variety of spaces designed for studying, socializing, and relaxing. Located on Queen’s Road, right next to the railway station, the development is part of Nottingham City Council’s plan to integrate students into the city center in high-quality, purpose-built housing.
A stylish space that feels open and inviting
One of the biggest challenges for Ekho Studio was ensuring the 100-square-meter ground-floor amenity area felt open rather than broken up into small, disconnected spaces. Where fire safety regulations required barriers, the designers used glazed doors to maintain visibility and flow. The result is a layout where students can easily move from the reception to the gym and games area, then to the study zone, lounge, kitchen, and private dining areas.
Design inspired by Nottingham’s history
Ekho Studio took inspiration from three key themes rooted in Nottingham’s history and location. The first is heritage, reflecting the city’s industrial past, including its historic mills and factories, which influenced various aspects of the design. The second theme, process, pays homage to Nottingham’s renowned lace-making industry, with design elements that incorporate weaving and patterning techniques reminiscent of lace production. Lastly, locality plays a significant role, with references to Queen’s Road and the nearby Belvoir Castle, bringing a touch of classic elegance to the interiors.
Bringing the concept to life
To bring these themes into the design, Ekho Studio used a mix of materials and colors. The industrial influence comes through in metallic accents, stainless steel details, and perforated panels inspired by lace-making techniques. The elegance of Belvoir Castle is reflected in the choice of deep maroon and gold tones, arched details, and soft, luxurious fabrics.
The design team sourced unusual materials that added a sense of luxury without breaking the budget. Rich velvets from Geometric Fabrics, timber-effect laminates, and contemporary concrete-look flooring (actually Marmoleum) create a balance between warmth and modernity.
Wayfinding was also a key focus, ensuring students can easily navigate the building. Ekho Studio collaborated with Eagle Signs to create clear signage that encourages movement through the space.
Exploring the interiors
Reception and lobby
The reception area has a boutique hotel feel with a mix of textures and colors. The front desk features fluted upholstery, while seating includes designer pieces from Muuto and Hay. A standout feature is a cozy corner with a red velvet chair by Sancal, which has become a favorite spot for students.
Two arched booths near the lobby offer semi-private seating, finished in rich maroon fabric that matches the postbox wall at the back of the space. Nearby, perforated timber panels referencing lace-making techniques can be pivoted to change the space’s layout.
Gym and games room
The gym, while enclosed for privacy, has glazed sections that allow natural light to filter in. The adjacent games room features timber panels on pivots, mirrors inset into shelving, and neutral-toned pool and table tennis tables.
Lounge and study areas
The lounge space is warm and inviting, with olive-green velvet sofas and strategically placed carpet tiles to add visual interest. A study hub features a long shared table with timber wall paneling and an optional curtain for added privacy.
Private dining and event space
A dedicated private dining area includes a large table surrounded by Kyoto chairs upholstered in yellow boucle fabric. The space features a fully-equipped kitchen, deep blue Marmoleum flooring, and elegant pendant lighting.
Rooftop Terrace and Sky Lounge
On the 11th floor, the Sky Lounge offers panoramic city views. The furnishings echo the ground-floor design, only with spherical pendant lights instead of the elliptical-shaped pendants used elsewhere. The furniture consists of lounge seating – armchairs, wingback chairs, sofas, stools, and incidental tables – enhanced by greenery throughout. The room also showcases artwork on the walls and Interface carpet tiles arranged as a rug setting.
Stylish and practical student rooms
The scheme features nine subtly graded bedroom levels: Classic, Classic Plus, Premium, Platinum, Penthouse, Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, and Accessible. Consarc, the project’s architects, designed the room layouts, while Ekho Studio developed the finishes and color palette, ensuring consistency with the design language established in the amenity areas.
Project info
Developer/Funder: MRP Investment & Development
Operator: Prestige Student Living
Building Architect: Consarc
Interior Designer: Ekho Studio
Contractor: McAleer & Rushe
Photography: Stevie Campbell
