Vertically integrated real estate investment management company CA Ventures’ 250-bed purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) community, The Aspen in Leicester has been awarded the highest Fitwel Rating of three stars by the Center for Active Design. Globally, 8% of projects have achieved certification under the Fitwel Certification System.
The certification recognises an asset’s sustainable and wellness-focused construction, design and operations, all of which aim to strengthen the physical, mental and social wellbeing of occupants as well as overall sustainability best practices. All leasing, marketing and operations for the community are managed by CA Ventures’ in-house PBSA operating platform, Novel Student.
Created by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the US General Services Administration, Fitwel is a green building certification system that was created to help improve, enhance and safeguard the health and wellbeing of residents.
“Novel Student was founded on a commitment to create communities of healthier, happier students, so naturally we are extremely honoured to have been recognised by Fitwel for our efforts to deliver on this commitment.
“As both owners and operators of premium PBSA schemes across Europe, we are acutely aware of the importance of protecting and promoting the physical, mental and social health and wellbeing of our residents, as well as our responsibility to be a champion for change across the industry.
“We look forward to continuing the assessment process for our other 2022 deliveries in the weeks to come as we gear up to welcome students in the fall.”
Matt Walker, executive vice president, European Operations, CA Ventures
The Aspen, a six-storey PBSA scheme was developed in a joint venture partnership with Harrison Street Real Estate. The scheme features amenity spaces including a breakfast bar, lounge, Zen Garden, karaoke room and games room, as well as indoor and outdoor gyms.
The Aspen community plans to welcome students in the fall of 2022, ahead of the 2022/2023 academic year. In addition to the Leicester asset, CA Ventures plans to deliver another 750 beds across Edinburgh and Belfast to serve students during the 2022/2023 academic year, all of which will be managed by Novel Student. CA Ventures has also announced joint ventures to expand its PBSA portfolio and the Novel Student platform to Ireland, Spain and Italy.
