StudentSpace launches operations with major investments in Cracow
StudentSpace, a newly established student housing platform, has officially begun its operations with the announcement of its first major investments in Cracow. The platform, launched earlier this year by Signal Capital Partners, Griffin Capital Partners, and Echo Investment, has secured two prime locations in the city for the development of state-of-the-art dormitories designed to accommodate over 1,200 students. These projects mark the beginning of StudentSpace’s ambitious plan to deliver 5,000 beds over the next three to five years.
The first dormitory will be located on Wita Stwosza Street, catering to approximately 600 students. This development is part of a larger mixed-use project by Echo Investment and Archicom, which will include both office and residential spaces. Positioned within walking distance of major educational institutions such as the Cracow University of Economics and the Tadeusz Kościuszko Cracow University of Technology, the dormitory will also offer convenient access to Jagiellonian University, the Main Railway Station, Galeria Krakowska, and the city center.
The second project will rise on 29 Listopada Avenue, providing housing for 630 students. Situated in a rapidly developing, post-industrial area, the dormitory will be close to Hugo Kołłątaj Agricultural University and well-connected to other Cracow universities. The location offers easy access to public transportation, shopping centers, restaurants, and cultural venues, making it an ideal choice for student accommodation.
Colman McCarthy, Partner, Real Estate Investments at Signal Capital Partners, expressed excitement about the swift progress of the platform: “We are thrilled to announce the acquisition of two prime plots for new PBSA projects in Cracow, just months after launching our platform. These strategically located accommodations will greatly enhance students’ academic and living experiences. Our investments underscore our commitment to advancing the PBSA market in Poland by developing projects of the highest quality in prime city areas to meet and exceed student expectations. We are already planning further expansion with two additional locations secured in Warsaw, and we are exploring opportunities in other key academic cities.”
Nebil Senman, Co-Owner and Managing Partner at Griffin Capital Partners, highlighted the growing demand for quality student housing in Poland: “Poland is home to 359 universities and higher education institutions, with a student population exceeding 1.2 million, including over 105,000 international students. The limited availability of private-operated housing and the poor quality of university-operated housing present significant challenges for students in Polish cities. The growing number of international students and the rising expectations of domestic students are driving the strength of the PBSA sector. These solid fundamentals, combined with strong rental growth potential, are key to our future projects within StudentSpace.”
Echo Investment, responsible for developing both Cracow projects, has already secured building permits and commenced construction. The dormitories are expected to be completed in time for the 2025/2026 academic year. Echo Investment’s COO, Rafał Mazurczak, emphasized the company’s commitment to creating modern, sustainable living spaces: “Building on our success in the PRS sector, we are entering the expanding PBSA market in Poland. We plan to develop modern dormitories with a variety of amenities, including spacious rooms, communal kitchens, study areas, recreational spaces, and gyms. Our projects will incorporate eco-friendly solutions such as solar panels and energy management systems, catering to the needs of both residents and investors. Our goal is to create environments that foster learning and social integration in fast-growing academic cities.”
Beyond Cracow, StudentSpace is already advancing projects in Warsaw, including a development in the central Mokotów district. This location, surrounded by office and retail complexes, offers excellent connections to major Warsaw universities such as the Warsaw School of Economics, Warsaw University of Technology, and Lazarski University. The dormitory in Mokotów is scheduled to open its doors to students by October 2026.
StudentSpace, launched in March 2024, aims to be more than just a housing provider. The platform’s mission is to create vibrant communities that support academic achievements, personal growth, and a sense of belonging, ensuring students have a home where they can thrive and make lasting memories.
