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123 York Street (RMI Architects)

Client

Safeguard Ltd

Project Value

£23M

Status

Complete

Sector

All Projects, Residential

123 York Street was one of the first purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) schemes to be delivered as part of the University of Ulster’s Belfast campus expansion. Located near the new university complex, the development helped set a precedent for high-density student housing in the city centre.
Quotes
Quotes

  • Rob played an essential role—not just as a designer but as a hands-on leader who ensured everything ran smoothly and stayed on budget.

As Director at RMI Architects, Rob Jennings led the project from early design through to completion. The architecture draws from Belfast’s industrial past — referencing the materiality and scale of the former Gallaher’s Tobacco Factory nearby. The distinctive façade features a double-height grid composed of terracotta-toned fibre cement panels and perforated aluminium screens, adding richness, depth, and rhythm to the streetscape.

The scheme delivers 407 student bedrooms arranged in a mix of single-bed clusters, twin rooms, and self-contained studios. A podium-level courtyard and generous communal spaces provide a strong sense of community, while robust detailing and modular room types offer long-term operational flexibility.

The project was delivered on time and on budget, achieving over 85% occupancy in its first year and winning two major industry awards.

How We Added Value:

  • Led the delivery of one of Belfast’s earliest and most successful PBSA schemes, setting a new design benchmark for student housing architecture Belfast.
  • Delivered a contextually rich façade that celebrates Belfast’s industrial heritage
  • Managed the project through planning, procurement, and completion, achieving high early occupancy.
  • Won the Belfast Telegraph Development of the Year and RICS Regeneration Award (2019).
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