Generation Z (people born between 1997 and 2012) is different than Millennials in terms of lifestyle preferences and unique needs in student housing. Gen Z is the most digitally engaged group of students, as they have never known life before technology. They are also the most diverse andย well-informed, knowing exactly how to get the information they need to make decisions.
To this end, university housing for the Gen Z student needs to incorporateย the digital world. For example, many housing providers are utilizing apps to field student complaints and needs, plus track and communicate with students in real time. Reporting something like the heat not working needs to be able to be communicated in real time, 24/7.
As digitally engaged as Generation Z is, they still value and desire in-person communication and socialization. This unique trait impacts the types of spaces and amenities that residence halls should incorporate, says KWK Architects Principal Paul Wuennenberg.
โGen Z is more independent in their learning style, but they want to be in a communal space, not isolatedย โย the concept of beingย โalone together,โโ said Wuennenberg.
The Gen Z student is typically very value consciousย as they saw their Gen X parents suffer through the Great Recession and understand the importance of maximizing value. That being said, Gen Z students are willing to pay for amenities, and will pay more if they see it provides them value.
Using digital technology comes naturally to Gen Z students. Wi-Fi and networking are simply expected in student housing. Shopping online is the normย for the Gen Z student, so universities need to accommodate the ability for them to receive packages and have safe access to those packages 24/7.
According to Wuennenberg, the values that Gen Z espouses will promote more studios and micro units in residence halls. Gen Z students will also want more opportunities to cook for themselves and social spaces where they can work in an โalone togetherโ scenario. Providing spaces for gaming will also be important, as a majority of this generation say they game at least once a week.
โI think the combination of wanting privacy, having fewer people share restrooms, and the desire for maximizing value will encourage these types of units,โ he said. โAllowing them choices will be extremely important.โ
About KWK Architects
Founded in 2013 by five architects with a combined 120 years of higher education knowledge and experience, KWK Architects partners with colleges and universities across the United States to create innovative and inspiring places that enhance campus life. Areas of expertise include student housing and dining, and academic and science/technology spaces. KWK Architects has completed more than $1 billion in construction-valuedย projects since its founding and currently employs a growing staff of 15 at its headquarters in Webster Groves, MO. For more information about KWK Architects, visitย www.kwkarchitects.comย or contact Director of Marketing Cindy Hausler atย cindyh@kwkarchitects.com.