A new purpose-built halls of residence developed by the AKDNThe Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is a contemporary endeavour of the Ismaili Imamat to realise the ethics and social conscience of Islam through institutional action. More is now operational. ÌýLocated within the King’s Cross Central development in Central London, the halls of residence provides 198 state-of-the-art bedrooms, which are now being occupied by students from the IIS and AKU-ISMC, as well as students from third-party institutions.
Designed by award-winning London-based Stanton Williams Architects, the design and specifications of the eleven-storey building are on par with the best in the student housing market, with spacious single rooms, studios, disabled rooms and a small number of one bedroom apartments. Within the building there are a number of generous communal spaces, which include, an onsite gym, reading room, meeting and A/V room and a lounge area.
The student housing building will also benefit from two open spaces, a courtyard and a roof terrace, inspired by the beautiful gardens of theÌýMaghrebÌý(Morocco) and Andalusia (Spain). Both of the open spaces – due to be completed in spring 2016 – have been designed by Vladimir Djurovic Landscape Architects, who are renowned for creating timeless poetic landscapes that put nature on the centre stage.
The richness and diversity of the students – who come from a range of countries, speak a multitude of languages, derive from various cultural and faith backgrounds, and are of all ages – reflects the cosmopolitan nature of the city of London, whilst also being reflected in the design and decor of the building and gardens.
Speaking about the move to King’s Cross, students have commented:
The way the IIS residence has been designed and built, it has an aesthetic appeal.ÌýÌýSpacious rooms, gardens and other student-friendly facilities make the living experience unique in one of the best locations in London.
Basharat Issa, IIS student.
I believe the building of our new accommodation is not only a space, but ‘space with a purpose’.Ìý Everyone can relate to it differently. For me, its architecture provides a sense of individual peace and inclusiveness.
Hinna Jessani, AKU-ISMC student.
The new building is being managed by Victoria Hall, who are experienced owners and operators of a large number of student housing facilities in the UK.
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