The largest structure in USC Village, the Cowlings and Ilium Residential College is a tangible statement of the university's commitment to housing undergraduates on or adjacent to campus, providing over 700 spaces to sophomores, juniors and seniors.  The selection of room types is extensive: there are six two-bedroom plans alone, accommodating two to four residents, and ranging from the compact (and economical) loft format to the larger model with two bathrooms. The small two bedroom and two bedroom loft-style types emphasize efficiency and do not have a living room and instead of a full kitchen have a kitchenette, with a sink, oven and four burner range; each bedroom has small microwave oven and mini-fridge. The three bedroom floor plan and some designated two bedrooms have two bathrooms.

Clad in the university's signature brick and cast stone motif, the building is both impressive and functional, home to the Trader Joe's specialty grocery and Target Express stores, Core Power Yoga, a hair salon and the USC Village's Department of Public Safety station.  The second floor has two expansive courtyards, offering a great place to gather with friends, study or watch movies as part of the building programming.