Opus Opens Student Housing Facility

By Anuradha Kher, Online News EditorWashington, D.C.–Opus East L.L.C. has completed Opus Hall, a seven-story residence hall at The Catholic University of America, located at 620 Michigan Ave. in Washington, D.C. Construction on the 127,000-sq.-ft. facility began in September 2007 and was completed in 15 months. Students will start moving into the new dorm when they return from winter break this week.“The student housing market appears to be doing well right now, but is facing similar challenges—like the difficulty in getting financing,” says Barry Boyd, project manager for Opus Hall. “Certainly, there is more scrutiny of projects,” he says.Currently, 300 beds have been leased and the University expects to fill the rest of them in the spring semester.Located on John McCormack Road, Opus Hall features 79 suites that will house 402 students. Each suite within the building consists of one double and three single bedrooms, a common living room, double sink, lavatory and shower. Each floor boasts an expansive kitchen and common area. Additionally, each floor will have a resident assistant unit. In addition, residents will have access to a large community space on the first floor, which includes a lounge with a fireplace, contemplative space, a central laundry room and a study area. Opus Hall also features a 2,100-sq.-ft. elevated outdoor terrace. As part of Opus’ commitment to sustainability, the building was designed and constructed to achieve Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification.