IMAGINE - Exploring the Brave New World of Shared Living

"IMAGINE - Exploring the Brave New World of Shared Living" is a publication created by SPACE10, a future living lab funded by IKEA, in collaboration with Urgent.Agency. The document aims to address the challenges posed by rapid urbanization, the increasing global population, and the need for innovative housing solutions that promote sustainability, community, and resource efficiency.

The urban population has surged from 751 million in 1950 to 4.2 billion in 2018, with predictions indicating that nearly 7 billion people will inhabit urban areas by 2050. This rapid urbanization will create significant challenges in housing availability and affordability. Shared living is explored as a potential solution to these pressing concerns, offering a model that combines private living spaces with communal facilities.

Shared living is not a modern concept; it has existed since the dawn of civilization. The modern co-living model emerged in Denmark in the late 1960s, with the rise of co-living communities that blend private and communal spaces. Today, a renewed interest in shared living is observed, driven by the need for affordable housing and social connectivity amidst increasing isolation.

Shared living can address multiple issues, such as the lack of affordable housing, loneliness, and the challenges of an aging population. By pooling resources, residents can benefit from better living conditions at lower costs, all while fostering a sense of community. This model supports not only economic sustainability but also social well-being, promoting healthier living environments.

The publication notes that the gap between housing prices and income levels is widening, making it increasingly difficult for young adults to attain homeownership. For instance, house prices in the UK have risen significantly, while incomes have not kept pace. Shared living, by maximizing space efficiency and lowering living costs, could become an attractive alternative for those struggling to find affordable housing.

Shared living can also encourage sustainable practices, such as energy sharing and collective purchasing, which reduce individual consumption and waste. The concept of communal living is highlighted as a way to enhance resource efficiency, allowing communities to become more self-sufficient in areas like food and energy.

As the global population ages, the need for suitable living environments for elderly individuals grows. Shared living models that include multiple generations can help address these needs, allowing for social interaction and support among residents of different ages.

The publication emphasizes the importance of innovative design and planning in creating shared living spaces. It advocates for a shift in how housing is perceived—from individual ownership to community-oriented models that prioritize well-being and sustainability.

In summary, "IMAGINE" explores the potential of shared living as a viable solution to the challenges posed by urbanization, housing affordability, and social isolation. By promoting community, sustainability, and resource sharing, this model could redefine modern living and enhance quality of life for many urban dwellers across Europe.