Selly Oak
CLIENT:
Greystar / Student Roost
CONTRACTOR:
To be determined
STAGE:
Technical Design (RIBA Stage 4)
CITY:
Birmingham
Our Selly Oak development reimagines a former Sainsbury’s site into a vibrant purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) scheme, just 1 mile from the University of Birmingham. The project delivers 836 high-quality student bedrooms across two thoughtfully designed five-storey buildings, alongside a medical centre and retail units that activate Bristol Road. Following the acquisition of the site and its consented scheme, originally designed by Corstorphine & Wright, FJA has been appointed by the new owners Greystar to refine the design and deliver the project from RIBA Stage 3 onwards. Collaborating with a UK-wide team, the scheme has been reworked to optimise circulation, enhance the public realm, and improve construction tolerances, all while preserving the integrity of the original consented design.
The architectural vision retains the strong brick-led aesthetic, refining the material palette for a more cohesive and buildable solution. By reducing the number of brick and aluminium panel colours, we achieve a sophisticated, unified design that still breaks down the building mass. Subtle brick setbacks, reconstituted stone banding, and brick soldier coursing with protruding brickwork add depth and visual interest while streamlining construction.
This approach balances efficiency with design intent, ensuring a high-quality, enduring development that enriches both the student experience and the surrounding streetscape. The scheme seamlessly integrates into its context, delivering a contemporary and sustainable response to Selly Oak’s evolving urban fabric.
CGI image courtesy of Jolie Studio Limited
