UC Santa Cruz Plans Heller South Student Accommodation

The University of California, Santa Cruz is planning to construct Heller Student Housing South to provide bed capacity for 1,290 upper-division students. Designed by WRNS Studio, the vibrant complex will comprise four buildings that range from five to seven stories in height. Catering to a range of lifestyle preferences, units will be available in a mix of singles, triple studios, two- and four-bedroom apartments, and co-living accommodations. Amenities will include a market, a mailroom, laundry venues, and additional multipurpose areas.

Marking a significant step in the university’s plan to increase student housing on campus by 40 percent within the decade, the modern hub is the first phase of a two-part project that will redevelop a 13-acre site currently occupied by Family Student Housing. Following the $145.6 million demolition and construction of a replacement facility, Heller South will deliver 189,000 asf of new residential space spanning 304,000 gsf, while a planned second phase would offer an additional 1,650 beds.

Targeting LEED Gold Certification, the all-electric structure will incorporate photovoltaic arrays and stormwater capture systems in alignment with the university’s sustainability goals. McCarthy Building Companies will serve as the general contractor. The project team will also include Latitude 33, Rutherford + Chekene, Interface Engineering, The Engineering Enterprise, Colin Gordon Associates, Power Systems Design Group, RDH Building Science, H. T. Harvey & Associates, Joni L. Janecki & Associates, and Webb Foodservice Design. Occupancy is anticipated in fall of 2029.