The inventory of loft style and studio apartments targeting college students will increase by more than 100 units when
Gatehouse Suites changes over to
The Hub starting in July.
Collegiate Housing Services purchased the residential-style lodging operation at 1600 E. Grand River Ave. as the company's first venture in the Michigan State University market.
"We're always scouting the country to see what's available," says James Crosetti, vice president of operations for the Indianapolis-based housing service. "Our niche is to offer low-cost options for students that are comfortable and close to campus."
Crosetti says Collegiate Housing recently began working with a West Coast company that specializes in converting extended stay hotels in living options for students. The Hub, he says, will offer 44 studio apartments and 64 loft apartments based on the current floor plans of the Gatehouse Suites.
Studio apartments can accommodate one or two students, with two-story loft apartments housing up to three. Each student, he says, signs an individual lease for a share of a fully furnished apartment, with Internet, cable and all utilities included except telephone. Other on-site amenities include a pool fitness center, laundry facilities, a computer center, and a lounge area.
Crosetti says Collegiate Housing will be upgrading common areas and laundry facilities, and will replace existing furniture as needed.
"The location is great," says Crosetti. "It's going to be a very affordable and convenient location."
The Hub will create five new jobs, including an on-site manager, one to two maintenance people, and two- to three- resident assistants.
Source: James Crosetti, Vice President of Operations, Collegiate Housing Services
Writer: Ann Kammerer, Development News Editor
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