
Forget boring ol’ classrooms – this exciting new living lab at the Singapore Management University (SMU) has all the makings of a hip Google office (yes, really)
Live, work and play – these three words encapsulate what lyf has to offer for Singapore Management University (SMU) students. The latest concept by The Ascott Limited takes a leaf from hip office concepts made even cooler by the likes of Google and VSCO. In their latest efforts, lyf collaborated with SMU to produce lyf@SMU – an ideas incubator for SMU students and staff within the city campus. Sounds too cool for school? We think not! To find out what the folks at lyf are doing differently from the rest of the universities in Singapore, we popped by to check out the space.
If you’ve been searching for a community that not only encourages out-of-the-classroom learning, but also allows you to pow-wow with other students, you’re not alone. Back when I was a student at SMU, it was a challenge trying to find a place where different individuals get together for a brainstorming session, or even one that allows me to snatch a quick mental rejuvenation before getting back into the grind.
That’s when lyf comes in.
Unlike conventional serviced apartments, it encompasses design-focused living and social spaces with the sole purpose of bringing global jetsetters and like-minded creatives together in one spot. From studios to twin rooms with a shared kitchen, lyf is all about building the ultimate co-living hub, which you can experience through its variety of communal spaces such as co-working areas, business suites, a ‘social kitchen’, laundromat, and even a gym.
Similarly with SMU Labs, lyf@SMU aims to turn a typical student life on its head by providing a unique, 360 concept that’s just for millennials. The communal spaces spread vertically across three storeys and are decked with interesting features such as discussion booths, the park (an area where students can catch a breather and do some fun light exercises at the cycling corner or table tennis box), jamming room and multimedia room, interactive and feedback walls (for students to leave comments and suggestions on lyf@SMU concept) and more – all to inspire communication of diverse ideas, collaborative discussions, and both learning and social interactions between students. Fancy yourself a future entrepreneur or a social media marketing whiz? Then you’ll definitely want to be part of the student-lyf community!
The SMU Labs isn’t exclusively for students; the space will also be opened to public for collaborative workshops, networking events, seminars, pop-up fleas, and other social gatherings from time to time. For more updates, keep tabs on their Instagram and Facebook page.
This article is sponsored by lyf.