UNCW had been experiencing both enrollment and reputational growth in the past 10 years. A new campus master plan called for formalizing a Chancellor’s Walk along the academic core of campus to upgrade the first and second-year experience in University housing. Initially the University conceived the Village as an 1,100 bed project, but then increased the program to accommodate rising enrollment targets and their goal of increasing second year offerings.

What has emerged is an exciting four building, 1,814 bed residential village for first-and second-year students arranged around a new, grand quadrangle green. The new housing features traditional pod-style rooms for freshmen and semi-suites intended primarily for sophomores. It includes common areas, meeting space, classrooms, and a student success center. The new Hawk Walk promotes a sense of community as a thoroughfare which features bistro tables, market lights, and mixed-use retail.