Home Experiences in Student Housing: About Institutional Character and Temporary Homes

Abstract

The aim of this article is to understand how architectural aspects of student housing influence students’ residential satisfaction and a feeling of home. In this context, the significance of an institutional character of accommodation is reflected on. Architectural aspects and aesthetics of the physical environment are as important for defining residential satisfaction as location, housing type, and social and economic aspects. Houses are dual structures, comprising both measurable physical aspects and subjectively experienced aspects. This article focuses primarily on student perceptions of subjectively experienced aspects of architecture for the appreciation of institutionally provided housing. Findings from interviews with students in two such residences indicate that student housing in general is associated with an institutional character by many interviewees. Judging from their perceptions, the students were aware of how contextual issues and architectural elements such as colours, materials, and spatial solutions either supported an institutional character or supported a feeling of home. The possibility for personalization of private rooms is highly appreciated in order to create a sense of home. Providing individual solutions may reduce a sense of institutionalization.