Raffles Hall is a newly delivered purpose-built student accommodation scheme located in the heart of York. Ideally positioned just a 17-minute walk from the University of York and 20 minutes from York St John University, the development also benefits from excellent public transport links, allowing students to easily access the wider city. Within walking or cycling distance of York’s vibrant city centre, Raffles Hall combines convenience, connectivity, and high-quality living, offering a premium student accommodation experience designed to support modern student lifestyles.
Project Details:
Project ff&e were appointed by GMI to design, supply and install fitted furniture, loose furniture and kitchens across all room types and amenity areas including:
• 195 cluster bedrooms
• 108 studios
• 27 cluster kitchens
Design
Project ff&e worked closely with GMI to deliver the design of the project’s amenity areas, from initial concept through to technical coordination. Following early client workshops, we developed location-led mood boards, 2D layouts and furniture schemes, selecting loose furniture and bespoke joinery solutions that balanced design intent with budget requirements. This was supported by detailed 3D visuals, material and finish reviews, and fully coordinated presentations illustrating how furniture, joinery, lighting, and finishes would work together cohesively.
Our scope also included producing technical drawings for bespoke joinery, liaising with suppliers and the principal contractor, and supporting the wider interior vision through assistance with wall, floor, ceiling, and wayfinding finish selections to ensure a seamless, well-considered amenity environment.
Operations
The project was delivered on site between October 2024 and February 2025, with a further return visit in September 2025 to complete the installation of loose furniture within the bedrooms. Installation progressed at an average rate of 30 rooms per week and included kitchens, bedroom furniture, loose furniture, mattresses, and desk chairs, as well as bespoke joinery, loose furniture, artwork and feature murals within the amenity spaces.
The works were managed by a dedicated on-site team comprising one Site Manager, one Site Supervisor and an average of five operatives per week. Monthly health and safety audits were undertaken throughout the programme to maintain high standards of compliance. The primary operational challenge was managing load-out across a complex floorplate with restricted access, which was successfully mitigated through detailed planning, sequencing, and close coordination on site.
Main Contractor: GMI
Architect: CSP Architects
Operator: Prestige Student Living
Photographer: David Lindsay
