Revitalising Student Living: Transforming Montefiore A & B at the University of Southampton

Nestled within the vibrant Wessex Lane Campus at the University of Southampton, the Montefiore A & B Halls of Residence have undergone a remarkable transformation. This iconic student accommodation, originally built in the 1960s, has long been a cornerstone of campus life—offering thousands of students a home away from home for decades. However, as times changed, so too did the expectations and needs of modern student living.

Recognising the importance of upgrading these facilities to meet contemporary standards, Cliftons Projects was appointed as Client Representative for the ambitious refurbishment. The mission was clear: breathe new life into Montefiore A & B, creating a space that not only meets the practical needs of today’s students but also fosters a strong sense of community, comfort, and wellbeing.

A Bold Vision for Modern Accommodation

The key objective behind the redevelopment was to significantly enhance the quality of the existing facilities, transforming the halls into a high-standard, modern residential hub designed for today’s diverse student population. The result is an impressive, future-proof living space featuring:

260 newly refurbished bedrooms, thoughtfully designed and organised into cluster flats to encourage shared living experiences

Spacious, modern communal kitchens and bathrooms—expanded and upgraded to create more comfortable and functional shared spaces

Newly installed windows to maximise natural light, boosting energy efficiency while creating a brighter, more inviting atmosphere

Extensive enhancements to the external hard and soft landscaping, seamlessly blending practical outdoor spaces with greenery and natural beauty

This refurbishment was not simply a matter of aesthetic improvement—it was a complete reimagining of the Montefiore living experience, designed to offer students a supportive, community-driven environment where they can thrive both academically and socially.

Maximising Space and Enhancing Community Living

One of the most significant changes in this redevelopment was the reconfiguration of space within the buildings. Originally offering 292 bedrooms, the capacity was thoughtfully reduced to 260 rooms to allow for larger, more comfortable communal areas. This deliberate reduction prioritises student wellbeing by providing more spacious shared kitchens and bathrooms, key social hubs that encourage interaction, collaboration, and the forging of friendships.

The scale of this refurbishment was considerable, with Montefiore A boasting a total gross internal floor area of 2,106m², while Montefiore B spans an impressive 4,074m². Every square metre was meticulously considered to enhance functionality and comfort, ensuring that every student feels at home in a modern, welcoming environment.

A Fresh Start for a New Generation of Students

This comprehensive refurbishment of Montefiore A & B is more than just an upgrade, it represents a bold new vision for student accommodation at the University of Southampton. With modern amenities, thoughtfully designed living spaces, and a renewed focus on student wellbeing, the halls are now set to support a new generation of students throughout their university journey.

The revitalised halls offer more than just a place to live; they provide an environment where students can build connections, foster personal growth, and create lasting memories. This transformation not only respects the rich history of Montefiore A & B but also sets a new standard for student living, one that reflects the needs, ambitions, and aspirations of today’s university community.

With brighter spaces, improved facilities, and a renewed sense of community, Montefiore A & B are ready to welcome students into a future-focused living space where they can truly thrive.

For more information about our work, please get in touch on info@cliftons-projects.com