The common room has been fully opened up, with all internal walls removed and zoning achieved through furniture, bold colour and bespoke joinery. Flexibility is built into the space through a custom storage unit, which houses twelve pull-out stools for larger events, while modular seating can be reconfigured to suit any occasion. A bespoke crafted teapoint for refreshments and a quieter study lounge at the far end of the space caters to a range of student needs.
With approximately 80% of residents being international students, the design draws on direct engagement with the student community with small symbolic details woven into the scheme such as a paper kite in the shape of a bird which is highly auspicious and positive symbol representing good luck and prosperity alongside floor-by-floor colour coding and a building-wide graphic identity under the name 'One Penrhyn.'
The project is due to complete in late August 2026.