News & Insights

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT

Growing with purpose

The University of Utah is redefining what it will mean to live and learn on campus. What began as a vision to turn a commuter institution into a connected residential community is now a six-story, 1,400-bed residence hall that is rising in the heart of Salt Lake City. And just months after shovels hit the ground, it is already earning recognition as the Best Education and Higher Education Project of 2025 at the recent P3 Awards in New York City.

Set to open in fall 2026, the development is the University’s first-ever public-private partnership (P3) student housing project. The 350,000-square-foot building will provide first- and second-year students with modern living spaces, dining and fitness amenities, and flexible social areas designed to support student wellbeing, connection, and belonging.

This was strategically designed to balance innovation with security. By preserving university land ownership while transferring financial, construction, and operations risk to the private partner, the university has an expanded capability to focus on academics and student support while advancing a bold residential vision.

Behind the scenes, the project also reflects the state of Utah’s broader ambitions. Energy-efficient systems, rainwater management, and green construction practices align with future LEED pathways, while features like indoor bike repair, ski and snowboard storage, and outdoor gathering spaces tie student life directly to the Utah landscape.

Judges praised the project for its “innovative structure and meaningful risk transfer,” calling it a compelling, high-impact submission. For the university, it’s also a signal of momentum—proof that thoughtful partnerships can create adaptable, lasting student communities even amid challenging market conditions.

B&D was proud to serve as development advisors on this project. This story goes beyond groundbreaking. It’s about empowering the University of Utah to set the standard for how campuses can grow—strategically, sustainably, and with purpose.