What it Means to Build Secure Student Housing

When it comes to building student housing, safety has to be the top priority. Parents entrust their children’s safety to educational institutions and universities, and it’s essential that they provide secure living environments for their students. 

In addition to building secure housing facilities, it’s important to consider peripheral safety measures, such as school bus safety and security around parking lots. There are many elements to creating safe student accommodation, and how both technology and traditional design elements can be incorporated into their construction for maximum benefit to students.

School bus safety

School bus safety is crucial in ensuring the safety of students, and stop arm cameras play a vital role in this. School stop security cameras capture footage of vehicles that illegally pass school buses when they stop to pick up or drop off students. The footage captured by these cameras can be used to identify offenders, leading to the issuance of fines. 

According to a survey of nearly 80,000 school bus drivers conducted by the National Association of State Directors of Pupil Transportation Services, 51,593 vehicles reportedly passed school buses illegally during a single day in the 2021-22 school year. By installing school-stop security cameras, schools and educational institutions can help prevent accidents and keep students safe.

Incorporating technology

Modern technology solutions can be used to enhance security, provide convenient amenities, and create a comfortable living environment for students. One example of this is the installation of video intercom systems. These systems enable students to communicate with visitors before letting them into the building, helping to prevent any unauthorised individuals from entering. Security elements like these can be incorporated into the traditional design elements of the building, such as wooden doors or iron gates, in keeping with the preferred aesthetic. 

Another example of technology being used in student housing security is the use of keyless entry systems, notes Fantastic Handyman. Keyless entry systems use key cards, fobs or smartphone apps to control students’ access to their living spaces. These systems can enhance security by allowing only authorised individuals access to the building, providing real-time, remote management of access permissions, and a record of who enters and exits the building.

Traditional design elements

While technology plays a pivotal role in modern student housing securities, traditional design elements still have their benefits, and can be used to enhance security while providing a more comfortable living environment for students. For example, making use of natural lighting and open floor plans can help to create a sense of community and make spaces feel more inviting. 

Another traditional design element that can be incorporated in a way that improves the environment as well as bolstering security is the use of landscaping. Intelligent landscaping can be used to create natural barriers for additional security. For example, trees or shrubs can be planted around the perimeter of the property to create a dense natural barrier to deter intruders.

Other examples of incorporating technology and traditional design elements into secure student housing include:

  • Surveillance cameras – strategically placed to blend in with the building’s existing architecture to provide seamless real-time monitoring
  • Alarm systems 
  • Smart lighting – classic lighting fixtures, such as chandeliers or sconces, can be used to blend smart lighting into the building’s aesthetics
  • Panic buttons – placed in common areas to provide students with a quick and easy way to summon help in case of emergency
  • Reinforced doors and windows – security measures such as shatter-resistant glass, metal frames or deadbolts can be used to reinforce traditional styles of windows and doors

Benefits of secure student housing

Student housing that is well-designed with security in mind provides a wealth of benefits. First and foremost, it provides a safe living environment for student residents, making them feel more secure and likely enhancing their ability to perform well academically and participate actively as a member of the student community. Students who feel safe in their accommodation will be more likely to engage in activities and events, leading to greater friendships and improved mental well-being.

Secure student housing can also extend to other amenities, such as fitness centres, study areas, and laundry facilities, all making daily life easier and safer for the students to balance their academic and personal lives. 

Final thoughts

Creating a secure, comfortable student housing facility is essential for their safety and well-being, and can be done by incorporating both traditional design elements and modern tech solutions to enhance security and maintain a comfortable environment.  

It’s important to note, however, that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to building secure student housing. Each educational institution has unique needs and requirements when it comes to security, functionality, comfort and aesthetic design. Therefore, it’s important to work with experienced architects, designers and security experts who can create custom solutions that meet the specific needs of each institution.