A private research university with more than 15,000 students from around the world, the University of Miami engaged Rickes Associates (RA), as part of a larger campus master plan effort to provide focused validation for the projected 1.7 million gross square feet (gsf) of new academic and administrative space needs through 2015.

In addition, RA conducted a review of the distribution, amenities, and square footage associated with the University's 4,800 beds. The goal was to house a higher percentage of students on campus, as well as replace a number of older and outdated beds with contemporary units, while taking into consideration the potential impact of off-campus apartments and fraternity housing. The study proposed a number of scenarios that suggested various distributions of bed types, phasing options, and desired characteristics, and also addressed food service considerations. As part of this process, recent residence hall construction at other institutions was also reviewed.