The Courtauld Institute of Art Students β Your Complete Move-In Guide
Everything You Need to Prepare for Student Life at The Courtauld Institute of Art

Starting at The Courtauld Institute of Art means joining one of the world's leading centres for the study of art history, conservation and curating. Whether you're moving into halls for your first year or renting a shared flat in London, preparing before move-in day will help you settle in quickly and make the most of your studies.
Based at the iconic Somerset House on the Strand, The Courtauld offers an exceptional learning environment surrounded by galleries, museums and cultural institutions. Students spend their time analysing artworks, carrying out research, visiting exhibitions and developing specialist knowledge, making a comfortable and organised room an ideal place to study and reflect after a day in central London.
This guide covers everything you need to know before moving to The Courtauld Institute of Art, including accommodation advice, packing tips and the everyday essentials that will help you feel at home.
The Courtauld Institute of Art at a Glance
π Location: Somerset House, Strand, London
π Student Population: Around 700 students
π Popular Accommodation: University of London halls, intercollegiate residences and shared accommodation in Bloomsbury, Covent Garden, King's Cross, South Bank and Waterloo
π Nearby Shopping: Covent Garden, Seven Dials, Brunswick Centre, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose and local independent shops
π Transport: Temple, Covent Garden, Charing Cross, Embankment and Waterloo stations provide excellent Underground and National Rail connections across London.
Student Accommodation at The Courtauld Institute of Art
Many students live in University of London halls or intercollegiate accommodation during their first year, offering convenient travel to Somerset House and the wider University of London community.
Others choose shared flats in Bloomsbury, Covent Garden, King's Cross, South Bank and Waterloo, balancing access to central London with museums, galleries and cultural venues.
Most student accommodation includes a bed, desk, chair and wardrobe, but you'll usually need to provide your own bedding, towels, kitchen equipment and personal belongings.
Before buying everything, check your accommodation inventory so you know exactly what's already provided.
What Should You Pack?
Preparing before move-in day makes settling into university life much easier.
Bedroom Essentials
Make your room comfortable with:
- Duvet and pillows
- Bedding sets
- Mattress protector
- Clothes hangers
- Laundry basket
- Storage boxes
- Soft lighting
Kitchen Essentials
If you'll be sharing a kitchen, don't forget:
- Plates and bowls
- Cutlery
- Pots and pans
- Cooking utensils
- Food storage containers
- Tea towels
- Washing-up supplies
Bathroom Essentials
Pack your everyday necessities, including:
- Towels
- Toiletries
- Shower caddy
- Cleaning products
Study Essentials
Courtauld students spend much of their time researching, writing essays, analysing artworks and visiting exhibitions across London. A calm, organised study space helps you concentrate and keeps books, notes and research materials within easy reach.
Useful items include:
- Desk organiser
- Adjustable desk lamp
- Extension lead
- Laptop accessories
- Cable organisers
- Bookshelves or storage boxes for art books and catalogues
- Notebooks and archival folders for research
Study at the Heart of London's Art World
Few universities offer access to world-famous collections quite like The Courtauld. With The Courtauld Gallery, the National Gallery, Tate Modern, the Victoria and Albert Museum and countless independent galleries all within easy reach, students are immersed in one of the world's richest artistic environments.
After a day spent studying masterpieces, attending lectures or exploring exhibitions, it's always good to return to a room that's organised, comfortable and inspires creativity.
Popular with The Courtauld students include:
- Comfortable bedding and mattress accessories
- Soft lighting for a cosy atmosphere
- Space-saving storage solutions
- Desk organisers for studying
- Kitchen essentials for shared accommodation
- Practical everyday accessories that make student life easier
All Loomz products are selected with student accommodation in mind, making them ideal for furnished student rooms where permanent alterations aren't permitted.
Why Students Choose Loomz
Students across the UK choose Loomz because we understand what makes student accommodation feel like home.
β Designed specifically for student accommodation
β Affordable essentials for every student budget
β Perfect for halls, studios and shared flats
β Free UK delivery
β Practical products that make everyday student life easier
Helpful Student Guides
Planning your move? Explore our other useful resources:
- UK University Packing Checklist
- Student Accommodation Guides
- University Move-In Checklist
- Bedroom Essentials Guide
- Kitchen Essentials Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in The Courtauld Institute of Art accommodation?
Most student accommodation includes a bed, desk, chair and wardrobe. Students are usually expected to bring their own bedding, towels, cookware and personal belongings.
Where do The Courtauld Institute of Art students live?
Many students live in University of London halls or intercollegiate residences. Others rent shared flats in Bloomsbury, Covent Garden, King's Cross, South Bank and Waterloo, all within easy reach of Somerset House.
Can I personalise my student room?
Yes. Most students personalise their rooms with bedding, lighting, storage and decorative accessories. Always follow your accommodation provider's guidance and avoid making permanent alterations to walls or furniture.
What should I buy before moving to The Courtauld Institute of Art?
Most students need bedding, towels, kitchen equipment, study accessories and practical storage before arriving. Students also benefit from organised storage for books, exhibition catalogues and research materials.
Ready for The Courtauld Institute of Art?
Moving to The Courtauld Institute of Art means studying at one of the world's most prestigious centres for art history while living in the cultural heart of London. By preparing your accommodation before you arrive, you'll be ready to settle in quickly, focus on your studies and enjoy the extraordinary museums, galleries and creative opportunities that surround you.
Browse Loomz's collection of student essentials to find everything you need for your bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and study space before beginning your journey at The Courtauld Institute of Art.