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7.1 How big are the rooms? What are they like?
The rooms vary in size but the smallest are approximately 13 ft. X 13 ft. (4 m X 4 m). The rooms in the 1907 Nueces building are smaller than the rooms in 1905 Nueces building but the rooms in the 1907 (for the most part) have private bathrooms while the rooms in 1905 (for the most part) share bathrooms in suites. Please see the Laurel House Virtual Tour for pictures of typical rooms.
7.2 Is there air conditioning/heating? How is the temperature controlled?
Both buildings have central heating and air conditioning. The temperature is controlled via central thermostats located on each floor of each building. The heating and cooling system is well-maintained. In fact, some people have been known to even open their windows in the summer because it is too cool for their taste.
7.3 Can I get a single/double room?
Laurel House has 39 single rooms and 3 double rooms. While there are more single rooms than double rooms, the single rooms are generally in much higher demand. Check with the membership coordinator for the latest availability. Note that house policy requires that the house be as gender balanced as possible, and so even if a room is open, it may be designated for a specific gender.
7.4 Are the rooms furnished?
All rooms at Laurel House contain a full-sized bed, desk, chair, dresser, shelves, and closet. Also each room is carpeted. Generally speaking it is difficult to bring your own furniture into the rooms unless it is fairly small but this, of course, depends a lot on the size of the particular room. No storage space exists at the co-op (with the possible exception of summer-- contact the membership coordinator for the latest information).
7.5 Can I have a phone in my room?
Yes. All rooms have one phone jack. Typically the connection fee is around $50 and the monthly charge for basic local service is $15-$20 per month. Members are responsible for all phone charges made to phones in their rooms.
7.6 Is there cable available in individual rooms?
No. While the TV room gets cable TV, the rooms do not.
7.7 Are the rooms connected to the Internet (Ethernet)?
Yes! Every room has free broadband internet and is connected to the computer room and laser printer, as well as to anyone who wants to share files or run iTunes.
7.8 Can I smoke in my room?
No. No smoking is permitted in private rooms or interior public spaces. Burning of candles and incense indoors is also prohibited. The reasons for this policy are twofold:
This policy is strongly enforced. Smokers are welcome to light up outside as long as they clean up after themselves.
7.9 Can I put my bike in my room?
Yes. You may put your bike in your room. Several bike racks are also
available outside for convenience. However, bikes have been stolen
from outside racks on occasion. Whether members keep their bikes
inside or outside, they are strongly encouraged to register their
bikes with the University of Texas at Austin Department of Public
Safety. This service is provided free of charge and allows police to
trace your bike and return it to you if it is recovered (though that happens
rarely... :-> ).
7.10 Can I have firearms in my room?
No. While Texas state law permits concealed handguns in certain places with an appropriate license, firearms of all kinds are prohibited in private and public spaces at Laurel House. Ammunition, fireworks, or any other type of explosive or incendiary device are strictly prohibited at Laurel House.
7.11 How are rooms assigned? What is my room assignment? Can I get a room with features X, Y, and Z (where X, Y, and Z are features of Laurel House rooms)?
Rooms are assigned by the Membership Coordinator of Laurel House before the arrival of new members at the house and at least one week prior to the beginning of the contract period. Once an applicant signs a contract, a room preference form will be sent out for members to indicate their general room preferences (upstairs vs. downstairs, 1905 building vs. 1907 building). The order in which room assignments are made is done at random. Due the number of new members and the unpredictability of room availability, not all requests may be able to be satisfied.
7.12 Can I switch rooms once at the house?
Yes. Members will be allowed to switch rooms if both parties agree to
switch. Switching rooms is generally limited to periods near the
beginning and end of contract periods. All room switching is subject
to the approval of the Director of Laurel House.
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Laurel House Co-op / Austin, Texas, USA / last updated 21 September 2005