As the Milano-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics wrap up, Milan’s Olympic Village is preparing for a bold second life. Built to host over 1,000 athletes from 42 countries, the Village is now set to become a vibrant hub for students, turning a temporary sports facility into a long-term solution for the city’s housing needs.
From Olympic podiums to student rooms
Completed in just 30 months by Italian builders, the Village was a showcase of efficiency. Athletes praised the comfort of the rooms, the design of the communal spaces, and the overall organisation. The Village wasn’t just a place to stay—it became a multicultural centre where 99 Olympic medals were won, highlighting Milan as a modern, world-class host city.
A smooth transition
Once the Games conclude, the transformation begins. In just four months, the Olympic Village will be converted into student accommodation, ready for the 2026/2027 academic year. With 1,700 beds, it will cover around 6% of Milan’s student housing demand, offering fully serviced rooms at rates roughly 25% below market prices.
A lasting legacy
This project is more than just a reuse of a temporary facility. It represents a long-term impact on Milan’s housing sustainability, supporting the city’s university system while keeping the Olympic spirit alive. Thanks to CDP Real Asset SGR and the National Social Housing Fund, the number of subsidised student rooms has grown from 150 to 450, making the Village a model of how sporting infrastructure can serve communities for years to come.
