Reflecting upon LOFT's House of Innovation

A Collaborative Approach to Transforming Student Housing & Co-Living.

The year, the annual Class Foundation Conference was in LOFT.uk’s hometown of Manchester, the first time this event has been held in the UK. In celebration, we turned our Head Office into a "House of Innovation" (HOI), a pioneering initiative aimed at reshaping the landscape of student housing and co-living across the UK and EU. With the theme “The Next Chapter,” this event signifies our commitment to adapting to the evolving preferences and needs of today’s student population.

At the core of the House of Innovation lies a spirit of collaboration. LOFT has forged strategic partnerships with an exceptional group of industry leaders, each bringing their expertise to the table in crafting living environments that prioritise well-being, sustainability, and community engagement.

Meet Our Partners and Their Unique Contributions:

A Designer at Heart: This innovative interior design firm created NESTBLOK specially for the HOI - a modular system that optimise space utilisation, ensuring that living areas feel more expansive and can adapt to varying resident needs. Their design philosophy is rooted in extensive research, directly addressing the desires and habits of the Gen Z demographic.

NSP Security: As one of the UK's foremost providers of access control and intelligent locking systems, NSP Security delivers cutting-edge solutions that enhance resident safety while simplifying management for property operators. Their products are designed for user-friendliness and come with robust in-house support.

Wifirst: A trailblazer in managed WiFi solutions since 2002, Wifirst develops secure, high-performance internet networks tailored to the modern student lifestyle. Their comprehensive services encompass everything from initial network design to ongoing maintenance, ensuring reliable and uninterrupted connectivity.

Smarter Services: With a commitment to raising the bar for cleaning standards in Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA), Smarter Services offers a wide range of cleaning solutions, supported by innovative technology and a structured operational framework to guarantee consistent quality and efficiency.

Love Design Studio: This creative studio is dedicated to crafting interiors that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply impactful. By integrating research across diverse fields, they create environments that foster improved living experiences.

The Property Marketing Strategists: With a focus on understanding customer needs through in-depth research, this team provides valuable insights that drive innovative solutions. They emphasise the significance of restful sleep and overall well-being in residential settings, ensuring that these factors are prioritised in design.

Plenti Space: Championing a new era of urban living, Plenti’s smart wall technology and modular furniture revolutionise how spaces are utilised, maximising functionality and comfort, particularly in co-living and PBSA settings.

DCTR: As a creative studio, DCTR redefines property marketing through high-quality CGI and virtual staging, enabling developers to present fully furnished spaces in an effective and sustainable manner, enhancing the appeal of their properties.

Cutter & Barr: Specialists in window treatments, Cutter & Barr focus on creating tranquil environments through eco-conscious designs that enhance comfort while minimising environmental impacts.

Hazaar: A marketplace created by students for students, Hazaar supports sustainability by facilitating the trade of preloved items within campus communities, promoting a circular economy and reducing waste.

Crown Paints: As a leading paint manufacturer, Crown Paints offers innovative solutions and demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability, with ambitious goals aimed at achieving carbon neutrality and full circularity in operations.

Iterum: This forward-thinking appliance solution provider is focused on sustainability and cost-effectiveness, offering tailored options that significantly reduce environmental impacts while enhancing the quality of living spaces.

Crown Harvest: Specialising in high-quality products at competitive prices, Crown Harvest assists clients in reimagining their living environments without exceeding budget constraints, ensuring that designs stand out and leave a lasting impression.

At LOFT, collaboration is at the heart of our mission. Through our partnerships with esteemed industry leaders, the House of Innovation represents a unified vision for building vibrant communities that prioritise the health and well-being of residents.

The House of Innovation will be available for private viewings until the Spring of 2025 - 227 Ayres Rd, Old Trafford, Manchester, M16 0NL.