Rialto House, York

Rialto House is a purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) situated on the site of a former Mecca Bingo, situated just outside historic city walls of York. The redevelopment project has transformed the existing site into a 275-bed facility, featuring a mix of studios and cluster apartments housed in two main blocks, complemented by extensive indoor and outdoor amenity spaces.

The architecture was carefully designed to resonate with the site's historical context. A gable and chimney motif has been incorporated, giving the development a unique yet respectful identity that enhances the character of the surrounding area. At the centre of the scheme are two courtyards that offer both hard and soft landscaped activity spaces for future residents. These spaces are strategically oriented to maximise natural light and allow for sunlight to reach the interiors during both summer and winter months.

The development opens to students for the 2025 academic year and includes accessible car parking spaces equipped with EV charging points, as well as 168 bike parking spaces. Overall, with a total of 275 bedrooms, Rialto House provides essential accommodation to serve both of York’s universities, communal social spaces, and open landscaped courtyards for students.