A former juvenile detention center in Essen, Germany, is being transformed into affordable student housing. The project will preserve key historic features of the building while creating 24 student apartments and is expected to open in early 2027.

Backed by public funding and a foundation grant, the renovation will offer rooms of about 14 square meters (151 square feet), with rents starting at €230 ($270) per month, according to project plans.

The project aims to address student housing shortages in Germany and in Essen specifically. As affordable accommodation becomes harder to find, housing is increasingly viewed as an important factor in attracting and retaining students and young workers.