This phased development is located on campus in the leafy suburb north of Southampton. Surrounded by mature woodland, the site presented us with the opportunity design modern buildings that are sensitive to their setting. Phase one of the development provides 356 student bedrooms in 41 cluster flats, a student social hub, combined heat and power energy centre, improved vehicular, cycle and pedestrian access, and bio diverse landscaping. Phase two provides 64 bed spaces in 8 cluster flats in townhouses. The layout provides a series of connected external spaces that retain the existing vegetation where possible; create safe and legible routes within the site and well defined connections with neighbouring university accommodation. A palette of sympathetic materials including cedar, zinc and brick has been selected that respects the character of the mature residential context. We undertook a comprehensive programme of engagement with local residents, stakeholders, police, the local authority and appropriate bodies to identify key issues and allow options to be debated and resolved. Start on site is planned for Spring 2015 with completion planned for July 2016.