ymarkov | BU dorm offers a study in luxury

[...] The view is not the only amenity. So luxurious is the 960-bed dorm that parents’ jaws dropped in disbelief when they helped their children move in last week. The suites of singles and doubles, with elegantly furnished common rooms, large private baths, walk-in closets, and floor-length mirrors, resemble nothing like what older generations remember of their college housing - sterile cinder-block boxes with institutional bunk beds and a communal bathroom down the hall.

“Life is tough,’’ said Laurie Hanafin, as she pushed a large orange crate full of her daughter’s belongings into her sixth-floor suite. “I’m going back to college. If there’s a martini bar, I’m staying.’’

No martini bar - after all, most residents are underage. But in addition to the panorama of the city skyline, students have access to a media lounge with a plasma TV for watching movies and playing video games.

Other amenities include soundproof piano rooms that allow students to practice without disturbing those studying in the 24-hour reading room, which is outfitted with plush adjustable furniture befitting a first-class airport lounge. The laundry room - with washers and dryers programmed to alert students via computer when they are available - overlooks the athletic field and stadium.

A trio of futuristic chandeliers hangs in the stairwell of the airy lobby. Newly potted lady-finger palms and creeping ficus fill giant stainless steel planters.

More here and here.