The new development at Falmer will see the construction of two six-storey linear wings, with an interlocking two-storey central social hub, playing host to 555 student bedrooms.
The accommodation will be split into 130 top-end, self-contained studio apartments, 397 student cluster rooms, 18 accessible studios and 10 accessible cluster rooms.
Other features in the completed development will include a roof terrace, gym, cinema, games room, private dining rooms as well as generous study, breakout and social spaces.
Construction work will include hard and soft landscaping, creating a welcoming, outdoor space for activities including yoga and a trim trail path.
Martin Fenlon, associate projects director at Downing, said: “Like many parts of the UK, there is significant demand for high-quality purpose-built student accommodation in Brighton.
“This scheme will not only relieve pressure on the existing stock of student accommodation but housing provision in the surrounding areas.”