Less than 20 years ago moving into student accommodation meant slumming it.
Nowadays students’ expectations are far higher and at Aspley House and Little Aspley House, off Firth Street, you certainly get more.
The Den – a recreation area which serves both buildings – has a cinema, fitness suite, study area, games room and lounge.
The refurbishment of the communal area cost £500,000 and took eight weeks to complete.
It’s a far cry from the dodgy digs of old.
But to live there – and make use of The Den – it’ll cost you no less than £109 per week
And if you want a private flat with your own kitchen and living space you’ll be paying £199 per week.
Your rent for each of the 729 en-suite bedrooms also includes a TV licence, 100Mb wi-fi and your utilities.
By comparison, you can rent a three-bedroom terrace on Honoria Street, Fartown, for £104 a week - not including utility bills.
And for £196 a week you can live in a five-bedroom detached house, in Bradley, or a four-bedroom detached house on semi-rural Park Avenue, Shelley. Also, not including bills.
Nathan Goddard, director of Prodigy Living which owns Aspley House and Little Aspley House, said: “We believe our residents deserve to live in an environment that enhances their study and university living experience.
"Therefore, we have re-imagined the space and built this multi-purpose area that will enable our residents to utilise The Den in a way that suits their needs – whether for working with peers in the study space, relaxing in the cinema and games room, socialising in the space or staying fit and healthy in the gym.”
Take a tour around the Den and see its cinema and games room
Chemistry student Thea Patroklou, 18, said: “This place is what’s missing from the normal student accommodation.
“I really like the cinema and can’t wait to use it.”
Biochemistry student Maria Theodorou, 18, added: “It is a beautiful place where we can spend our free time with friends while also making new friends. We have the chance to meet new people.”
Take a tour around the Den with these pictures from the opening
