Mishawaka , Ind. —The new River Crossing Campus Apartments at Indiana University South Bend  were named runner-up in the public institutions category of the "Dorms of Distinction" award in the August issue of the nationwide magazine, University Business.  The apartments were designed by The Troyer Group in Mishawaka. www.troyergroup.com

According to the magazine, the award honored residence halls "...that feel like home yet foster a sense of community through interior and exterior spaces." 

River Crossing apartments, completed two months ahead of schedule earlier this year, provide the first student housing option at IU South Bend.  Traditionally a commuter campus, the university sought to provide a more "total" package, Chancellor Una Mae Reck said.

According to Sam Jones, AIA, senior vice president of The Troyer Group's College and University Studio, "Apartment living has become more of a trend on university campuses than dorm living."

At River Crossing, even underclassmen can enjoy private bedrooms.  One- and two-bedroom apartment units feature private bathrooms; four-bedroom units feature two bathrooms and a separate vanity.

Nine-foot ceilings add to the home-like atmosphere.  Each apartment also includes a kitchen with dishwasher, microwave, stove and refrigerator; a dining area; living room; walk-out patio or deck; Internet access; and cable TV.

For security, the apartments feature door-prop alarms, building access via card key, bedroom access via mechanical key and lockable bedroom storage units.

Built with environmentally friendly materials--including a geothermal heating system, waterless bathroom fixtures and automated lighting controls--the 7,400-square-foot River Crossing Community Building is one of the first IU structures designed for LEED certification.  The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System, created by the U.S. Green Building Council www.usgbc.org, provides a nationally accepted benchmark for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. 

In addition to “green” and home-like traits, University Business noted that the 76 nominations for the award revealed a trend toward community-oriented spaces. 

At River Crossing, “The community building isn’t just for residents, but for the whole student body,” Jones said.  The building features a large gathering space, study areas, wireless Internet, computer kiosks, a big-screen TV and fireplace, fitness equipment and laundry facilities.

Clusters of eight apartments in the complex also contribute to the community feeling.  A pedestrian bridge links the main campus to the new housing site across the St. Joseph River. 

For a virtual tour of the apartments and community building, visit www.housing.iusb.edu.