The Place is a landmark new-build student accommodation development in Nottingham, and the first of its kind for developer and owner MRP. Designed to offer more than just a place to live, the scheme combines style, function, and a strong sense of identity, brought to life by the award-winning interior designers at Ekho Studio.

The interior design from room finishes to the schemes stunning amenity spaces on the ground floor and 11th floor roof terrace features lighting solutions from Light Forms.

The interior design narrative draws from three site-specific themes helping ensure a unique style and sense of place, reflected in both the finishes and lighting. The first thread was ‘heritage’, referencing Nottingham’s rich industrial past and iconic mills. The second thread was ‘process’, inspired by the city’s world-renowned lace-making traditions. Lastly, ‘locality’, drawing elegant cues from nearby Queen’s Road and the historic Belvoir Castle.

Ekho Studio’s lighting design approach focused on zoning the space, identifying the features and circulation points where track lighting will be used to aid wayfinding. Rachel Withey, Co-Founder at Ekho Studio commented “These are the areas where we specified Light Form’s flexible track lighting and the smaller fittings.”

Light Forms enriched the space by suppling a range of lighting solutions included Powergear Mains Track and Powergear DALI Track systems – chosen for their adaptability, performance, and clean architectural finish. These versatile tracks allowed for maximum flexibility in the amenity spaces and living areas, essential for future-proofing a high-use student environment.

To highlight features and create atmosphere, Carina 86 downlights were specified alongside the Nova 62 track spots and pendants. This combination delivers precision lighting with a timeless, elegant aesthetic that complements the scheme’s refined material palette and architectural character.

The end result is a dynamic, inviting space that balances practicality with personality, creating a student living environment that is not only functional but beautifully lit throughout.

Project credits:

Developer and Owner: MRP Investment & Development
Interior Designer: Ekho Studio
Lighting Manufacturer: Light Forms
Operator: Prestige Student Living
Building Architect: Consarc
Contractor: McAleer & Rushe
Photographer: Stevie Campbell