University of Delaware
Office of Public Relations
The Messenger
Vol. 5, No. 1/1995
Top of the tower: Rooms for guests

     The top three floors of Christiana West in Newark, Del.,
have been converted to University Guest Apartments, complementing
the UD's 21 guest rooms at the Virden Center in Lewes. The
availability of these guest apartments should attract new groups
that desire on-campus housing for conferences, David Butler,
executive director of housing and conference services, said. An
increased number of conferences, in turn, will use other campus
services and facilities, such as catering and conference rooms.
     Residence hall space is currently available for all
undergraduates who have requested it, Butler said, and, if there
is a significant increase in student demand, guest apartments
could be converted back to student housing.
     There are 42 apartments available, with a total of 54
bedrooms that can house 108 persons. The apartments have been
redecorated with new wall, floor and window treatments and new
furniture, including queen-sized beds, although the essential
floor plan and equipment, such as kitchens and bathrooms, remain
the same. Lounges also are available for clients' use.
     The complex is staffed by students under the direction of a
housing professional. Plans are under way to involve students in
the University's Hotel, Restaurant and Institutional Management
Program.
     "Using all our housing units and other support facilities
fully is important because it keeps the costs down for students.
The availability of guest apartments also makes the University
more competitive and attractive as a conference site," Butler
said.
                                       -Sue Swyers Moncure