Housing FAQ
It’s not unusual to have questions about housing at Kendall. And you should make sure all of yours are answered before you make a commitment on housing. Here are some of the most common questions new students have. If you don’t find the answers you need, please call our Admissions office at 616.451.2787 or 800.676.ARTS. We’ll be happy to track down whatever information you need.
- Where do Kendall students live?
- What are The Lofts @ 5 Lyon?
- What is Heritage Hill?
- How do I find an apartment?
- If I want a roommate, how do I find one?
- When should I start looking for an apartment?
- What if I have difficulty finding a place?
- Can you tell me more about Housing Day?
- Is there anything else I should know?
Where do Kendall students live?
Most Kendall students choose to live in the Lofts @ 5 Lyon building just a block away, or within walking distance (10—20 minutes) of the college in an area called Heritage Hill.
What are The Lofts @ 5 Lyon?
What is Heritage Hill?
Heritage Hill is a vital historic neighborhood—one of the largest in the country—located just east of our downtown campus. The houses there date from 1848 and represent more than 60 architectural styles, including two prairie—style homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. These were the homes of the lumber barons, teachers, judges, and legislators who shaped Grand Rapids. Today, the population of the Hill is amazingly diverse: Professionals; crafts and trades people; artisans and students; singles and families; renters and homeowners; people of all colors, backgrounds, and incomes call “The Hill” home. It’s the unique blend of these two elements—people and place—that make Heritage Hill a one-of-a-kind community.
How do I find an apartment other than The Lofts @ 5 Lyon?
There are a variety of resources you can use to locate traditional apartment—style housing, as well as rentals in renovated historic homes. One excellent online resource is the Heritage Hill Association web site, which provides information about the neighborhood and lists available housing.
You can also get rental lists, including those published in the Grand Rapids Press, from the local edition of Mlive.com.
Our students also rent units in several Heritage Hill area apartment buildings, including:
- College Hills Apartments, 510 College Ave NE, 616.58.6774
- Oakwood Manor/Hillmount Apartments, 547 Cherry SE, 616.459.8211
- Park Place Apartments, 68 Ransom NE, 616.458.9722
- Waters House Apartments, 500 East Fulton, 616.454.5501
We maintain a housing bulletin throughout the year, which lists students seeking roommates as well as apartments available in the area. Most of the rentals are in the Heritage Hill historic district and are within walking distance of the college. Please contact us if you would like a copy emailed to you.
Housing Caveat: Aside from The Lofts @ 5 Lyon, the web links, listings and roommate information mentioned above does not indicate approval or endorsement by Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University. Kendall has not conducted any investigation into the backgrounds of any landlords or roommates, nor has it inspected any of the properties which the landlords or roommates have available for rent. Kendall cannot and does not make any representation, expressed, or implied regarding the condition or habitability of any such properties or the reputation of the landlord or roommate. Kendall is simply acting as a resource center, providing information on available properties for rent. Each individual student should inspect units personally before entering into a rental agreement.
If I want a roommate, how do I find one?
A roommate can be an excellent idea for several reasons. First, they may be taking many of the same or similar classes, so you can help each other with studies and projects. Roommates also become part of your social network and sometimes even close friends. They also help you reduce your living expenses by sharing the cost of food, utilities, rent, and so on.
At Kendall, we include a Roommate Assistance Form (pdf, 72kb) with every acceptance packet. This form asks for information about your major, study habits, hobbies, likes and dislikes, and anything else you want to include about yourself. We compile the information we get back into a master list and make it available to every student who’s looking for a roommate. If you have not received an updated list you may request one by calling Admissions at 616.451.2787 or 800.676.ARTS.
When should I start looking for an apartment?
Even though you may not be moving into an apartment within the next few weeks, it doesn’t hurt to look early. The more information you gather, the more informed your decisions will be. As you do your research and begin finding places you like, let the property owners know when you need an apartment. The one that caught your attention may not be available, but a similar place owned by the same person might be. Owners often have a sense of when their apartments will become vacant, so if you like one, ask about others.
What if I have difficulty finding a place?
Finding an apartment in Grand Rapids is relatively easy for a city this size. The Admissions Office is, of course, will happily answer your questions and direct you to any other available resources. If you’re still looking for an apartment by the middle of July, join us for a Housing Day and we’ll provide you the resources that will help you secure a place that’s right for you.
Can you tell me more about Housing Day?
If you’re starting classes in the Fall, we recommend that you try to find an apartment before Housing Day. If you can’t or you still need help, attend Housing Day at Kendall on July 11, 2008. We set up a room for students to make phone calls to and receive messages from various property owners. It’s also a good time to find or meet prospective roommates. We’ll provide lots of housing resources, including apartment lists and maps. But to make the best use of your time, we suggest you arrange some apartment visits prior to your arrival at Housing Day.
Is there anything else I should know?
Yes, two things:
- Remember that you can call us with any questions at 616.451.2787 or 800.676.ARTS
- Creating your own living space is an exciting part of the college experience. Jump right in and have fun with it!
