Alumno have just opened its latest 2 schemes. It seems fitting to show some images from the buildings on the eve of London Design Festival

Students moved into the buildings in Manchester and Bermondsey, London last week. The students will have been amazed at the attention to detail and design features in their new homes

The scheme at Bermondsey was designed by architects Greenaway  Architecture. The building lies on the edge of the beautiful Bermondsey Spa Gardens. With  the rooms having stunning views over London.

The students enter the building to a very minimal reception with circular features reminiscent of the design of the New York subway with a  monochrome palette. Taking the stairs to the basement communal area the students can observe artworks by finalists in the Photo North Student photography competition as well as work by renowned Scottish photographer and curator Martin Gray.

Bespoke furniture in both schemes has been provided by David Tatham of Tatham Studio. Attention to detail picks out the green at Bermondsey and the orange in Manchester on the furniture but also on the wayfinding and interior design.

Ben Kelly, the legendary Hacienda designer has put his own individual touch on the ground floor of Church Inn, Manchester with wooden slated walls. The architect Iain Carson of Carson and Partners has created an iconic building in Manchester. The building is instantly recognisable with its name carved into the balustrade surrounding the rooftop. On the ground floor there is a nod to the musical history of Manchester with an oval window reminiscent of an old school speaker on a sound system.

The musical legacy of the great city of Manchester is also reflected in the artwork in the communal areas on each floor with portraits by Chris Floyd, including Sean Ryder, New Order and Oasis. Again in Manchester finalists from the Photo North competition are on display. The Church Inn pub which was originally on the site of the student accommodation is not forgotten with the original brick signage being used at the entrance of the building and a bench made from some of the decorative brickwork being installed at the back of the building for the students to enjoy. There is even a mini model of the original building in the foyer.

Of course the main priority for student accommodation is for the residents to feel safe and at home but if these small design / art touches add to their student residential experience then all the better.