Category: Types of coliving

Coliving, a contemporary housing concept emphasizing community, collaboration, and shared spaces, has gained immense popularity in recent years. This innovative approach offers numerous Coliving benefits, including cost-sharing, social interaction, and convenience. However, for potential renters, the idea of Coliving can be intimidating. In this blog post, we’ll explore common concerns associated with Coliving and discover how operators are tackling these challenges to ensure a harmonious and fulfilling Coliving experience.

Communication and Boundaries:

Living with multiple individuals in close proximity can sometimes lead to miscommunication and clashes if expectations and boundaries are not clearly defined. To overcome these challenges-

House Rules:

A well-organized Coliving operator provides guidelines on noise levels, shared responsibilities, cleaning schedules, and personal space boundaries. All household members, along with the on-site manager, should uphold these rules to ensure everyone’s needs are considered and respected.

Establish quiet hours:

Any multi- dweller home should have quiet hours set in place. This is essential in order to accommodate different schedules and ensure everyone’s sleep and rest needs are met.

Regular house meetings:

Conduct periodic meetings amongst members of the household to address concerns, resolve conflicts, and emphasize the importance of open communication. This fosters a sense of community and gives everyone a platform to voice their opinions and suggestions with the group.

Utilize communication tools:

Social media platforms or communication apps facilitate communication amongst housemates, ensuring critical information and updates are easily accessible to all.

Melting pot of cultural diversity:

Different types of Coliving often brings together individuals with diverse backgrounds, lifestyles and habits. Although Coliving places a strong emphasis on inclusivity of all people, these differences can sometimes lead to friction and conflicts. Here’s how to navigate this path-

Embrace diversity and respect:

Encourage an inclusive and respectful environment where individuals appreciate each other’s differences. Promote understanding and involvement by organizing activities that inspire cultural exchange and celebrate diversity.

Find common ground:

Coliving properties can initiate or sponsor shared activities and events that cater to the interests of all residents. This helps form bonds, create shared experiences, and build a sense of belonging and connection.

Privacy and Personal Space:

Maintaining a healthy balance between communal living and personal space is essential. Occupants are encouraged to communicate their privacy needs as well as respect everyone else’s. This ensures that each individual understands the other’s expectations of personal space and downtime.

Maintenance and Housekeeping:

All communal spaces demand regular maintenance and upkeep. Neglecting these responsibilities can strain relationships and impact the overall living experience. Here are ways on ensuring this doesn’t get in the way-

Housekeeping service:

Engage operators who provide professional housekeeping services for bathrooms and common areas. This alleviates the burden of shared cleaning responsibilities and ensures a high standard of cleanliness.

Foster a culture of cleanliness:

Encourage cleanliness and tidiness by setting an example. Some operators implement a system for regular cleaning of shared spaces, ensuring that everyone contributes to a clean common space. Formalizing this cleaning routine will not only ensure that the space stays tidy, but also that everyone is contributing in doing so.

Conclusion:

Coliving can be a rewarding and enriching experience when the challenges it presents are effectively addressed. By encouraging open communication, embracing diversity, setting clear boundaries, and promoting a culture of respect, operators can create a harmonious living environment for tenants where everyone feels valued and respected. By implementing the strategies outlined in this blog post, typical Coliving challenges can easily be resolved and everyone can enjoy the benefits that this innovative and affordable housing concept has to offer.

The global COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the movement towards Coliving. Coliving is an antidote to isolation, and recent years have highlighted the effects of loneliness that results from quarantine and physical distancing. This is one of the many reasons Coliving continues to gain increasing popularity amongst the urban population.

Coliving provides an alternative to conventional rental options and a solution to housing affordability, a social issue most pronounced in large cities. While many individuals are drawn to Coliving for economic reasons, many also realize the social benefits of living within a community.

Human connection is the strongest connection. Studies have proven that our mental health is enhanced significantly by developing strong relationships with others around us. Nearly every aspect of our lives within human society is based on social relationships, as evidenced by our decisions about our families, friends, workplaces, and our residences.

Coliving is the nexus of community- driven spaces that encourages social contact every day if one chooses to. Therefore, it should not be surprising that communities and, by extension, Coliving provides many advantages for one’s health and well-being. We have closely examined how Coliving affects our emotion and mental well-being, social character and personal development.

Letting Humans Be Social Animals

The notion of Coliving is centered around the sharing of resources, living spaces and lifestyles. Coliving can foster a strong sense of community, leading to increased social support and reduced feelings of loneliness. The unconventional real estate market of Coliving can set the pace for advancing breakthroughs in social impact and in turn, environmental sustainability.

Stronger Social Ties: Living with others in a Coliving arrangement often leads to the development of strong social ties. Residents can share meals, engage in hobbies and activities, and provide emotional support to one another, leading to a sense of belonging and increased social connectedness.

Increased Opportunities for Interaction: Coliving accommodations typically have common areas such as kitchens, living rooms, gardens, patios and recreation rooms which allow for different levels of interaction so residents can engage with one another on a daily basis.

Diverse Community: A multi resident property could potentially attract individuals from a myriad backgrounds, cultures and professions. This diversity can only enrich a person’s exposure to different perspectives and ways of life. A melting pot of people, ideas and life experiences are vital ingredients for the betterment of society.

Shared Experiences: Coliving residents share experiences and create memories together, leading to stronger bonds and a sense of community.

Reduced Loneliness: For lone individuals isolated from their social networks, Coliving provides an instant community of support. As a result, this comfort mitigates feelings of loneliness, isolation or depression.

Overall, Coliving can be a powerful way to build and strengthen community, leading to increased social connectedness, personal growth, and overall wellbeing.

Keeping Humans Sane

The criteria and research established by Well state that “mental health is not just the absence of a mental health issue. Instead, it is a condition of well-being in which people can reach their full potential, handle everyday challenges, do fruitful work, and give back to their community.”

The fundamental concept of shared living is that people are naturally social beings, regardless of age or circumstance. And without that, humans struggle.

Humans have a wide range of problems when their mental health is impaired, including a higher risk of heart disease, memory loss, anxiety, diabetes, joint problems, stress, drug addiction, and in severe cases, suicide. With Coliving, these risks reduce because of the following:

Social Support: Living in a supportive, communicative community can help reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation, leading to improved mental health. By fostering a community of connections and friendships, Coliving Spaces assist people going through life changes and transitioning into new environments.

Increased Social Interaction: Coliving spaces provide opportunities for residents to interact and engage with one another on a daily basis, which can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. They also offer the much needed peace and solitude by way of individual private rooms.

Reduced Financial Stress: Coliving spaces often provide amenities within shared recreation and workspaces, kitchens, common dining areas and patios, reducing the need for residents to own and maintain these items individually.

Improved Physical Health: Coliving spaces often provide opportunities for physical activity, such as shared recreation spaces, and encourage healthy habits, such as sharing meals and engaging in regular exercise. These factors can contribute to improved physical and mental health.

Increased Sense of Belonging: By living in a supportive community, Coliving residents can develop a stronger sense of belonging, leading to improved self-esteem and overall mental health. To feel complete, people require other people. To thrive and live in a healthy environment, individuals must coexist. Life looks a lot more enticing when there are others to interact with.

As per a survey, it was concluded that Coliving spaces increase the quality of life and well-being.

It’s imperative to note that Coliving is not a one-size-fits-all solution and that the impact on mental health can vary depending on the individual and the specific Coliving arrangement. It is important to carefully consider factors such as cost, location, and involvement in the community culture before making a decision to move into a Coliving space.

All in all, a house alone won’t do the trick. Businesses like COHAUS specialize in promoting social awareness whilst providing Coliving opportunities. COHAUS offers different life experiences based on individual property, location and demographic of residents.

Developing them Personally & Professionally

As they say- You are the average of the five people with whom you spend the most time. Coliving offers a distinctive approach to meeting individuals you know share your outlook and interests.

Coliving spaces provide a nurturing environment for both professional and personal growth.

Diverse Community: Coliving spaces often attract a diverse group of people from different backgrounds, cultures, and professions. This diversity provides opportunities to meet new people, exchange ideas, and share contacts within individual networks.

Shared Workspaces: Many Coliving spaces have shared workspaces, providing opportunities for residents to work alongside one another and potentially collaborate on projects.

Social Activities: Coliving spaces often organize social events, such as dinners, movie nights, and outdoor activities, which provide opportunities for residents to get to know one another and build relationships.

Professional Workshops and Conferences: Some Coliving spaces host professional workshops and conferences, providing residents with opportunities to expand their knowledge, connect with experts in their field, and network with potential employers or collaborators.

Alumni Network: By living in a Coliving space, residents can become part of an alumni network, providing them with opportunities to connect with former residents and potentially further their professional goals.

Overall, Coliving can provide residents with increased opportunities to network and make professional connections, leading to personal and professional growth. Tenants of communal living spaces can strengthen their emotional intelligence, spiritual practice, and creativity, among other aspects of personal growth.

Final Notes

In conclusion, Coliving has the potential to positively impact professional and overall wellbeing in several ways. By providing a supportive, communicative community, Coliving can help reduce feelings of loneliness and increase social connectedness. The diverse community, shared amenities, and increased opportunities for interaction can provide residents with opportunities for personal and professional growth, while the simplified billing and maintenance can reduce stress and increase overall convenience. Additionally, Coliving can have a positive impact on mental health by providing social support, reducing stress, and improving physical health. Coliving can be a powerful way to improve both professional and overall wellbeing, providing residents with a supportive, low-maintenance living environment.

If you are searching for shared housing opportunities in Los Angeles… Contact us to find some fully furnished, amazing properties today!

While such forms of Coliving as student housing and senior living have existed for a long time, Coliving spaces today are attracting a wider audience including students, professionals from diverse sectors, and both young and mature adults. As the Coliving market develops, there will be more segmentation in the market as more options will become available to target different Coliving seekers.

The type of Coliving space defines the living environment and consequently the type of resident that is drawn to it. While housing affordability will always be an important consideration for home seekers, other factors are becoming increasingly important such as quality of the living environment, amenities, location and proximity to the workplace, emphasis on safety and wellness, etc. Different types of Coliving spaces offer varying levels of the considerations listed above. Some of the different types of Coliving options are described below:

1. Student & Adult Dormitories

A dorm — short for dormitory — is a place where students or adults live. Bunk beds or pods are rented per person in a shared room. While this style of popular Coliving to students, adult dormitories have started to sprout in cities experiencing escalating housing costs. This high-density living arrangement provides a housing option for adults struggling with rising rents.  Often, multiple residents may share a sleeping quarter, and common areas like the kitchen and work/study areas are shared by many.

A positive result of living in dormitories has shown that students who live in dorms achieve better academic outcomes during their academic careers. This has been attributed to being closer to classes, faculty, and facilities and being more engaged with other students academically. Due to affordability, living in adult dormitories encourages savings. Due to space constraints, it also encourages dorm residents to pursue activities outside the facility. 

Space constraints and high density may lead to issues with noise, privacy, hygiene, and availability of facilities such as laundry and bathrooms. These issues can lead to stressful living and the typical duration of residents in this type of setting is typically shorter than other forms of Coliving.

2. Apartment or House sharing (Informal setup)

An informal apartment or house sharing is commonly defined as two or more people living in an accommodation together. Usually, each person will have his/her own bedroom and certain communal areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, or living rooms will be shared. In some informal house shares, every member of the household is on the lease or rental agreement. While in others, one or two people act as the head of household, keeping their names on the lease while leaving others off. Another house-sharing situation is when an owner (family or individual) rents out rooms available in the household.

Roommates can split rent in many ways from equal divisions or based on room size. This methodology can also apply to other household expenses like internet and utility costs. The members of the household work out a system for chores, kitchen time, and other activities. Since it is informal, there are many ways to go about it, and a lot of coordination is involved. For many people, cost savings is the key reason for house sharing. As the house is shared, members may schedule bathroom and kitchen time to avoid conflicts. This includes parceling out chores in a rotating schedule to make sure the house is kept clean. Some people also enjoy companionship and support. Members of a house share may engage in group activities such as cooking or dining together.

Several issues may come up in informal settings. Issues arise when a roommate is unable or unwilling to pay his/her portion of the bills and when a roommate departs leaving a greater burden on the remaining roommates. Clear arrangements on how to split bills need to be established to avoid conflicts within the household.

3. Single Apartments (formal setup and professionally operated)

While apartments are a common type of traditional rental, Coliving in an apartment setting is attractive to tenants who are seeking affordability and flexibility. Some Coliving operators offer private bedrooms in furnished apartments with shared common areas. This living arrangement is great for students, young professionals or relocating individuals that need more privacy than dormitories. Unlike an informal apartment-sharing situation, this type of professionally operated Coliving space provides the benefit of an operator who will collect payment from all the residents and ensure continuous and smooth operation of the household even when individuals leave or fail to make their payments.

Density depends on the number of rooms available in the apartment. Usually, common areas will include a kitchen and living room. As usual, noise and privacy are factors of consideration for this type of housing unit. While space is limited, there is less density and noise than a dormitory. A sense of community may or may not be met here because apartments typically have few bedrooms, thereby limiting the size of the community.

4. Single Family Home (formal setup and professionally operated)

Professionally operated single-family homes are becoming available as Coliving residences. In this housing environment, common areas are typically larger, outdoor spaces are accessible and larger communities exist. Single-family homes may offer more amenities and features than an apartment setting.

In addition to providing services like housekeeping, a good Coliving operator, like COHAUS, will promote social interaction and encourage community building by hosting events, organizing household activities and even encouraging civic involvement.

Like apartments operated by a Coliving operator, certain aspects are ensured and coordinated for the resident. Monthly rates are typically fixed and inclusive of utilities and other household expenses. This makes monthly budgeting and cashflow management easy for the residents. 

5. Apartment Building

While there are single apartment units available for Coliving, some Coliving operators dedicate entire apartment buildings to communal living. In this type of large Coliving space, the resident may have a variety of unit choices due to the size of the facility.

Large apartment buildings may offer more facilities and overall common area spaces. Since building sizes are large and can accommodate many residents, the downside may be impersonal interaction among community members and difficulty in developing meaningful relationships as one would experience in a large apartment complex where it is impossible to know everyone.

In a rapidly changing urbanized world, the way we live is undergoing a seismic shift. One of the most significant transformations in our cities is the emergence of Coliving—a novel approach to housing that is gaining traction globally.

Coliving refers to a modern housing arrangement where individuals or small groups of people live together in shared spaces. It typically involves private bedrooms and bathrooms, while common areas like kitchens, living rooms, and workspaces are shared among the residents. Coliving spaces often come fully furnished and equipped with amenities like high-speed internet, cleaning services, and community events.

The popularity of Coliving can be attributed to several factors:

1. Cost-effectiveness: Coliving offers an affordable housing option, especially in expensive urban areas where renting an entire apartment can be costly. By sharing the rent and expenses with other residents, individuals can enjoy a more affordable living situation in desirable neighbourhoods that might otherwise not be affordable.
2. Community and socialization: Communal spaces emphasize community and social interactions. They often organize events, workshops, and networking opportunities to foster a sense of belonging and facilitate connections among residents. This can be particularly appealing for individuals who enjoy a social and collaborative living environment.
3. Convenience and flexibility: Coliving spaces are typically designed to cater to the needs of modern lifestyles. They often provide amenities like fully furnished rooms, high-speed internet, cleaning services, and sometimes even access to coworking spaces. Often the need to own a car is eliminated as most cohousing spaces are in well- connected locations. This convenience and flexibility can be appealing to individuals who value a hassle-free living experience.
4. Networking and professional opportunities: Coliving spaces often attract a diverse group of individuals, including entrepreneurs, freelancers, and professionals from various fields. Living in such an environment can provide opportunities for networking, collaboration, and sharing of knowledge and skills.
5. Sustainability: By sharing resources and facilities, Coliving promotes a more sustainable way of living. It reduces the per-person demand for space, energy, and household goods, contributing to less waste and a smaller carbon footprint.

Whether Coliving is right for you depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Lifestyle preferences: If you enjoy socializing, building connections, and participating in community events, Coliving can be a good fit. However, if you prefer privacy and solitude, Coliving might not align with your lifestyle.
2. Budget: Coliving can be a cost-effective option, but it’s essential to assess your budget and compare the costs with alternative housing options in your area. Consider the rental prices, additional fees, and the amenities provided to determine if it aligns with your financial situation.
3. Compatibility: Living with other people requires a certain level of flexibility, compromise, and respect for shared spaces. If you are comfortable with the idea of communal living and can adapt to different personalities and living styles, Coliving can be an enjoyable experience. However, if you prefer more control over your living environment, you may find it challenging to adjust to the dynamics of a Coliving space.

Coliving offers many benefits and advantages to traditional housing Ultimately, it’s important to research and visit different Coliving spaces, talk to current residents, and carefully consider your own needs and preferences before deciding if Coliving is right for you.

Understanding the Concept of Coliving

At its core, Coliving is a form of intentional living that emphasizes community and collaboration. Think of it as a modern, shared housing arrangement where individuals, often strangers, choose to live together and share common spaces, resources, and amenities. This arrangement isn’t merely about splitting rent and utilities; it’s about fostering a sense of community, facilitating social interactions, and encouraging shared experiences.

Unlike traditional roommate situations, Coliving typically involves organized activities and services an overseeing entity provides, such as cleaning, cooking, and laundry. This model promotes a lifestyle that intertwines convenience, flexibility, and community.

The residents of Coliving spaces range from digital nomads, young professionals, and students to entrepreneurs, retirees, and everyone. A shared desire for community and collaboration and a value for affordable and hassle-free living ties these diverse individuals together.

History and Evolution of Coliving

The concept of Coliving isn’t new. It originates in various cultural and historical precedents, including boarding houses, communes, and kibbutzim. However, the modern iteration of Coliving reflects contemporary social, economic, and technological trends.

The rise of Coliving in its present form can be traced back to the early 2000s, coinciding with the emergence of the ‘sharing economy.’ This period was marked by the launch of disruptive platforms like Airbnb and Uber that harnessed the power of digital technology to enable shared access to goods and services.

The demand for flexible and communal housing solutions grew as the digital nomad lifestyle started gaining traction. This laid the groundwork for the first modern Coliving spaces. These were often tech-enabled, fully-furnished units that offered a plug-and-play living solution for their inhabitants.

In recent years, various organizations have adopted and modified the concept worldwide, leading to a proliferation of Coliving spaces in urban locales. Today, Coliving is recognized as a viable, sustainable, and socially enriching housing option that caters to the evolving needs and preferences of the modern urban dweller.

Why is Coliving Growing in Popularity?

Societal, economic, and technological factors fuel the rising popularity of co-living. Here’s a deeper look at some of the key drivers behind this trend:

The Role of Urbanization and Globalization: The world is more urbanized than ever, with more people flocking to cities for opportunities. However, with urban living often comes high rents and a cost of living that can be prohibitive for many, particularly young professionals and students. Coliving offers a more affordable alternative, enabling individuals to reside in desirable locations without bearing the brunt of high living costs. Moreover, globalization has engendered a world where people are more mobile and interconnected. This has further amplified the appeal of Coliving, which promotes a global community spirit.

The Influence of Technology and the Digital Nomad Lifestyle: As the Internet and digital technologies have permeated every aspect of our lives, they have given birth to new ways of working and living. One such lifestyle is that of the ‘digital nomad’—people who work remotely and live a nomadic lifestyle. For these individuals, Coliving offers an ideal solution, combining flexible lease terms, work-friendly environments, and opportunities for networking and community-building.

Evaluating Coliving Spaces

Choosing a Coliving space is an important decision that should be guided by careful consideration and research. When assessing a space, you should consider several key factors, such as the community, facilities, location, and management. Here’s how you can make a more informed choice:

Understand Your Needs: First, identify your specific needs and preferences. This could include the types of Coliving you want, your budget, your desired location, and the community you wish to be a part of. Companies like COHAUS offer a variety of living arrangements to cater to diverse needs.

Visit the Space: Visit the Coliving space to get a feel for the environment. COHAUS, for example, has beautifully designed spaces that promote community living and collaboration. A visit can give you a first-hand experience of the space and the opportunity to meet potential housemates.

Do Your Research: Look up reviews and testimonials online. How have others found their experience? Are there any recurring issues that come up? It’s always a good sign when a company like COHAUS has positive reviews and testimonials from its residents.

Understanding Contracts and Agreements

Before moving into a Coliving space, it’s crucial to understand the contract or agreement. Here’s what you should pay attention to:

Payment Terms: Make sure you know what’s included in your rent and if there are any additional costs you should be aware of.

Lease Duration: How long is the lease? What are the conditions for renewing or terminating it? Companies like COHAUS often offer flexible terms, which can be an advantage if you need to figure out how long you’ll be staying.

House Rules: Coliving spaces often have rules to ensure a harmonious living environment. Make sure you’re comfortable with these.

Health and Safety Considerations

Health and safety should be a top priority when choosing a Coliving space. Here’s what to look out for:

Cleanliness and Hygiene: The space should be clean and well-maintained. COHAUS, for instance, prides itself on maintaining high standards of cleanliness in its spaces.

Safety Measures: Check for safety measures like secure entrances, smoke detectors, and emergency exits. It’s also good to inquire about the company’s policy on guest visits.

Is Coliving Right for You?

Just like any housing option, Coliving isn’t for everyone. Whether or not it’s a suitable choice depends on various factors, including your lifestyle, career, personal preferences, and needs. Here’s how you can evaluate if Coliving is the right fit for you:

Understanding Your Personal Needs and Preferences

When deciding if Coliving is right for you, it’s essential to take your personal needs and preferences into account:

Introvert or Extrovert: Your personality type can play a big role in whether Coliving is a good fit. While introverts might find the constant social interaction draining, extroverts often thrive in these communal environments.

Privacy Needs: Coliving involves sharing some spaces, which could be an issue if you require a lot of personal space or solitude.

Tolerance for Shared Responsibilities: Living in a Coliving space often involves shared responsibilities like cleaning common areas or respecting quiet hours. Are you okay with this kind of shared accountability?

The desire for Community: One of the biggest draws of Coliving is its sense of community. Coliving could be a great fit if you want to make new friends and enjoy communal activities.

The Changing Face of Urban Living

The rise of Coliving marks a significant shift in the landscape of urban living. This innovative housing model, led by pioneering companies like COHAUS, represents a conscious move towards more collaborative, flexible, and community-oriented ways of living. In a rapidly urbanizing world with an increasing demand for affordable and convenient housing, Coliving is more than a mere trend—it’s a powerful solution to modern housing challenges.

Summing up the Coliving Movement

The Coliving movement is rooted in the understanding that living spaces can be more than just physical dwellings. They can be vibrant communities that enrich our lives. As we’ve seen, Coliving combines the practical benefits of cost-effectiveness and convenience with the intangible benefits of community, collaboration, and connection.

Organizations like COHAUS are at the forefront of this movement, offering beautifully designed spaces that foster community and creativity. Through their work, they are changing how we live and perceive the concept of home.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Coliving isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a person who thrives in a communal environment, value shared experiences, and seek a flexible and affordable living solution. Consider your needs, lifestyle, and preferences, and evaluate potential Coliving spaces carefully. And if you decide to take the plunge, embrace the experience and the opportunity to be part of a vibrant, diverse, and supportive community.

Remember, the goal of Coliving, and indeed the vision of companies like COHAUS, is to enrich the living experience. It’s about creating spaces where individuals live together, grow together, learn from each other, and build lasting relationships. It’s about reimagining what urban living can be- a place of community, collaboration, and connection. So whether you’re a young professional, a digital nomad, a student, or just someone looking for a change, contact us for Coliving that could be a step towards a more fulfilling and engaging living experience.