Under dark skies in early November, University of Washington Bothell Chancellor Kristin G. Esterberg and Chad Izmirian, Capstone Partners’ senior vice president, cut the ribbon that officially marked the completion of the Residential Village and Quad construction. In doing so, they ushered in a bright new era of opportunity for more than 600 students who now call the three residence halls on campus their “home” — and for the rest of the campus community
“We now provide a residential UW experience for students who thrive in a community-oriented setting,” said Esterberg to an audience that included students, faculty, staff, campus partners, elected officials, and business and community leaders.
“We are hosting more events and activities than ever that serve all our students, both residential and commuting,” she said. “Additionally, the Residential Village provides a visible and inviting connection between our dynamic campus and Bothell’s vibrant downtown.”
On the rise
The grand opening event focused on the recently opened Horizon Hall and Forest Hall, which includes a café and a convenience store. These two residential buildings joined Summit Hall, the first building that welcomed residential students in autumn 2023, and the Terrace Dining Pavilion.
Almost immediately, the Student Engagement & Activities team began to see a dramatic rise in student engagement on campus.
“Our data shows that when you have an active core group of students living on campus, commuter students are more likely to stay late into the evening to participate in events and activities,” said Katie Horowitz, assistant dean for student engagement and director of residential life.
Since Summit Hall opened last academic year, participation at events on campus has been breaking records. During Welcome Weeks (Sept. 20-Oct. 4) — a series of events designed to acclimate students to campus and the many opportunities it offers students both academically and socially — the SEA team counted more than 2,500 participants, an increase of 75.3% over Welcome Week in 2023. Notably, 88% of students who attended welcome events in 2024 reported feeling a deeper sense of belonging at UW Bothell and making new connections on campus.
“This is more than just a place to live,” Horowitz said. “It’s a place for learning, connection and community. We are fostering a sense of belonging and school spirit for all students.”
It takes a village
Plans to transform UW Bothell’s former Husky Village, which had approximately 300 beds, began many years ago. Partnering with Capstone Development Partners, UW Bothell finally began construction on the Residential Village project in spring 2022. Twenty months later, the 300,000-square-foot, student housing community offers 1,055 beds in traditional residence halls, suites and apartment-style housing.
Capstone Management Partners will continue to provide facility maintenance and asset management to ensure the buildings are well maintained and managed. “We’ll work with UW Bothell’s residential life team to ensure each and every resident enjoys an exceptional experience while living on campus,” said Izmirian.
“Capstone has worked tirelessly to develop and build a ‘home away from home’ for our students,” Esterberg said. “Chad and his team have been wonderful partners, working closely with University staff to learn more about our unique student community and to create spaces that will help students succeed in their academics and in life.”
Learn more about campus living at UW Bothell.
