The Accolade

The Accolade is a 17-story student housing community envisioned and designed by ESG Architecture & Design for Greystar, located just steps from the University of Minnesota. The interiors balance academic focus with social energy through a layered color palette of warm neutrals, saturated accents and natural materials that create both comfort and vibrancy. Texture is used intentionally throughout, pairing upholstery, wood tones and patterned surfaces to define different moods across the building. Curated artwork and bold graphic moments help tell a cohesive story, shaping an environment that supports student life while reflecting the character of the surrounding campus neighborhood.

A variety of study settings were thoughtfully designed to support different work styles, including connected study lounges linked by a playful architectural opening between levels, alongside quieter focus rooms and collaborative gathering areas. Social spaces extend outdoors to an active pool deck, creating a balance between productivity and relaxation. Hutch Contract partnered closely with ESG Architecture & Design to bring the vision to life, sourcing and procuring furnishings that align with the design intent while supporting durability in high-use environments, ensuring each lounge, study space and amenity area functions as comfortably as it feels inviting.