Finding student housing should be hassle-free. Many students, especially those coming from outside the European Union, face difficulties in finding comfortable accommodations across Europe. For instance, in major university cities, skyrocketing rents and subpar living conditions leave students scrambling for a place to call home. SHED Living is changing this narrative, offering modern, affordable community-focused spaces where students can live, learn and thrive.

In this interview with Education Insider Europe, Eglė Garnienė, SHED Living group general manager for the Baltics (I Asset Management), provides insights into SHED’s expertise in student accommodation. She emphasises how stylish co-working spaces enable students and young professionals to balance their responsibilities and comfort needs.

With student housing being a problem across Europe, how Is SHED providing a suitable alternative and alleviating the situation?

Finding quality, affordable student housing in Europe is increasingly difficult, particularly in major university cities where demand far exceeds supply. Over 50 percent of students struggle to secure accommodations that balance comfort, convenience and cost, with cities like London, Berlin and Warsaw facing critical shortages. In Central and Eastern Europe, students often have limited options—outdated dormitories, overcrowded flats or expensive private rentals that fail to meet their needs.

Our mission at SHED is to address this challenge through purpose-built student housing via our Student Housing Funds. We have launched high-quality, student-focused accommodations in Lithuania, Latvia and Poland, with plans for expansion across the CEE region. More than just a place to sleep, our properties foster supportive communities where students thrive academically and personally. With flexible lease terms, modern, fully-equipped rooms and dedicated study areas, we offer an exceptional living experience at an affordable price.

Expanding our portfolio, we aim to alleviate the student housing crisis and provide a much-needed alternative to traditional options. Our vision is to build safe, thriving communities where students can live, learn and grow—free from the stress of inadequate housing.

How does SHED create a supportive, community-driven living experience for students? What makes SHED unique in the student housing space?

Under SHED, we provide safe, engaging environments where students can focus on their studies while enjoying a balanced life. Operating high-quality, purpose-built accommodations in Vilnius, Riga and Krakow, we are expanding this year with two new locations in Warsaw to meet the rising demand for student housing in these regions.

Our properties cater to diverse student needs, offering fully furnished private and shared spaces with modern furniture, high-speed internet and essential appliances for a quiet, comfortable retreat. Beyond the rooms, beautifully designed common areas promote both study and social interaction, including dedicated study rooms, gaming zones, rooftop terraces and leisure areas. Shared amenities like bike storage, laundry rooms, yoga zones and indoor gyms help residents maintain a well-rounded lifestyle, while private kitchens and leisure zones encourage connection among students from diverse backgrounds.

From welcoming new residents on arrival day to providing ongoing support throughout their stay, our dedicated staff at SHED plays a vital role in enhancing the student experience. Beyond accommodation, we organise social events that help students build friendships and expand their networks, fostering a true sense of belonging.

Our mission to “create a space that celebrates change” reflects our belief that everyone should feel empowered to embrace transformation. The name SHED embodies two powerful meanings. As a noun, shed represents a safe, supportive space where students feel secure and at home. Our modern, flexible accommodations go beyond just housing, offering lively communal areas and innovative amenities to enhance daily life. As a verb, shed signifies letting go of the past to embrace new possibilities—like a rocket discarding boosters. We encourage residents to use their time with us to reimagine themselves, explore new opportunities and connect with diverse cultures.

This philosophy shapes our approach, creating a dynamic, multicultural community with residents from over 40 countries, where change is embraced and new horizons await.

What makes SHED the preferred choice for students?

Many residents extend their leases year after year, which testifies to SHED staff expertise. Our locations fill quickly after reservations open, highlighting how much students appreciate the quality, community and support we provide.

SHED stands out through three key differentiators: quality of space, a community-driven environment and personalised support. SHED spaces are explicitly designed for students with study areas and dynamic communal spaces supporting academic focus and social engagement. We continually enhance our spaces, upgrading rooms, common areas and amenities to meet residents’ needs.

Beyond housing, we foster a vibrant community where students connect, collaborate and share experiences. Our events and social gatherings, supported by engaged on-site staff, help students build lasting connections. Personalised support is central to our approach, with our team ensuring residents feel at home and supported throughout their stay.

Together, these elements create an experience beyond accommodation, providing a relaxed atmosphere for studying, unwinding and thriving.