Co-living - Design study into co-living as a typology of shared living

This resource is a design study titled "Co-living - Design study into co-living as a typology of shared living," published by MVRDV, HUB, and Bridges Fund Management. The authors include Winy Maas, Sanne van Manen, Damien Sharkey, Kate Brown, Celia Harrison, and Peter Murray. The study explores co-living as an emerging housing solution that addresses modern challenges like housing shortages, climate change, and social isolation.

Co-living is gaining traction as a viable housing option, particularly in urban environments. It caters to various demographics, including young professionals, students, expatriates, and downsizers. The study emphasizes that co-living can provide affordable housing while fostering vibrant communities. As cities face increasing pressures from population growth and climate issues, co-living offers innovative solutions that make better use of limited urban space.

Co-living arrangements typically include shared facilities like kitchens, workspaces, gyms, and lounges, which encourage social interaction among residents. The design promotes "social spaciousness," allowing residents to encounter one another naturally in communal areas. This layout not only facilitates community building but also enhances the overall living experience, making it more than just a place to reside.

The study highlights the sustainable aspects of co-living, focusing on the use of eco-friendly materials and the potential for reducing embodied carbon through the repurposing of existing buildings. By integrating green spaces and communal gardens, co-living developments can contribute to urban biodiversity, making cities more resilient to climate change. The research also discusses how co-living can help mitigate social isolation by creating strong community bonds.

The co-living model is adaptable to various target groups, from young creatives to active seniors. The study identifies specific needs for different demographics, such as workspaces for young entrepreneurs and community gardens for gardening enthusiasts. This flexibility allows co-living to cater to a wide range of lifestyles and preferences, enhancing its appeal across age groups.

As urban areas continue to grow, the study encourages innovative approaches to housing that can address future challenges. It discusses concepts like the "15-minute city," where essential services are within a short walking distance, and explores how co-living can contribute to this vision. Co-living is portrayed as a strategy that not only addresses current housing crises but also prepares for future urban challenges.

The design study concludes by advocating for the broader implementation of co-living principles in housing developments. It stresses the importance of collaboration between local authorities, investors, and communities to realize the potential of co-living. The authors aim to provide insights that can lead to more sustainable, socially inclusive, and resilient urban environments.