S09E04: Refurbishments: Future-proofing student accommodation

Every building needs a refresh at some point. Whether it’s adapting amenity spaces to meet changing student needs or refreshing the look of bedrooms, a refurbishment can unlock significant improvements in student and employee satisfaction. But balancing budgets against quality and student expectations is easier said than done.

So, this month’s episode is a deep dive into refurbishments – how to do them right, and their hidden benefits. The conversation covers:

• When to refurbish a property
• How to deliver in-occupancy refurbishments
• How refurbishments drive value for money
• Making your refurbished buildings more sustainable
• How to future-proof a refurbishment

Hosted as ever by the inimitable Jenny Shaw, this month’s expert panel includes:

• Nikki Todd, Managing Director at Fortis Vision
• Karan Khanna, Chief Operating Officer at Unite Students
• Roscoe Chubb, Head of Asset & Fund Management at Unite Students

Accommodation Matters brings together sector experts to discuss the Higher Education sector’s key issues through the lens of student accommodation. This episode was recorded on 13th and 14th May 2025 and produced by Ed Palmer.

Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are the personal views of individual guest speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views of Unite Students and/or Unite Group plc.

 

Resources

Want to see what the refurbished properties mentioned in the episode look like? Check them out on our student website:

• Sherren House, London
• Cedar House, Liverpool
• Station Court, London
• Stapleton House, London

Follow Unite Students on LinkedIn to hear about all the latest refurbishment and development updates: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unite-group-plc/