R.D. Olson Construction has given the term "student living" new meaning with the completion of an award-winning, one-of-a-kind complex that caters to the lodging, learning, and recreational desires of those attending nearby University of California, Riverside

The GrandMarc at University Village has been a huge success among students and was honored at the prestigious A.P.E.X. (Awarding Positive Efforts toward eXcellence) Awards, being named Community of the Year by the Inland Empire Apartment Association.

Sprawled across 12-acres, this $25 million development is home to six four-story, Type V student apartments housing 752 residents in 212 suites, each featuring a laundry, kitchen, dinette area, living room and wrought iron encircled balcony. Its stucco and red clay tile exterior takes on an early California mission look, while the interior is warmly decorated using rich tones, tasteful artwork and plush furnishings that enhance its functional design.

The facility was built to give students luxurious state-of-the-art accommodations and easy access to everything they need. Each room is equipped with Direct TV and high-speed data transmission outlets networked to the university. At the hub of the complex is the 15,000-square-foot Student Center, where scholars enjoy a business center, health club, billiards hall, presentation room, recreation area, kitchen and bistro. Also housed in the Student Center are study halls and administrative offices.

For the students' outdoor leisure needs, R.D. Olson also constructed two recreational courtyards, highlighted by a trellis colonnade skirting its walls, a covered patio and barbeque. Students can also relax by the Olympic-size pool, outlined with colorful stamped concrete decking, or in a nearby Jacuzzi.

Relying on R.D. Olson Construction's quality workmanship and attention to detail, the GrandMarc at University Village was completed in just 13 months and has started a new trend for the future of student housing.