Redesigning Renting: Housing as a Service

This article, titled "Redesigning Renting: Housing as a Service," was written by Alexis Kalagas and published on Assemble Papers, a platform dedicated to discussions around architecture, design, and housing. The piece was published on May 20, 2019, and explores the evolution of housing in the context of the sharing economy and the rise of co-living spaces, promoting a shift from traditional renting to a service-oriented model.

The sharing economy has transformed how services such as transportation, music, and clothing are accessed. This shift is also influencing housing, as evidenced by co-living ventures such as WeWork, which has expanded into the residential sector with its WeLive initiative. WeWork's business model involves leasing large spaces from property owners and subletting them as smaller units, offering flexibility and community benefits aimed at freelancers and startups.

Three primary models of commercial co-living have emerged. The first targets digital nomads through companies like Roam, which provide communal living and co-working spaces in popular destinations. The second model, exemplified by LifeX, focuses on curating shared apartments in major European cities. The third model, represented by firms like Common and Starcity, scales this approach to entire branded buildings designed for co-living.

Co-living facilities often include shared amenities such as co-working spaces, gyms, and communal kitchens, with flexible lease terms that bundle utilities and services into all-inclusive pricing. This model appeals to urban professionals seeking convenience and community, but it also raises concerns about the commodification of shared lifestyles.

Critics argue that the co-living trend commodifies community by reducing private space and increasing profitability for landlords. In Australia, the cultural emphasis on homeownership has historically overshadowed rental markets, with policies favoring ownership over rental security. The private rental sector has rapidly expanded, now housing a diverse demographic that includes couples and families, highlighting the need for regulatory reforms that serve tenants better.

The article emphasizes the potential for co-living to reshape the landlord-tenant relationship and adapt existing properties to modern living patterns. It discusses the necessity for new models to achieve a balance between mobility, affordability, quality, and autonomy. Some co-living companies envision a future where housing is provided as a service, emphasizing community while leveraging data to optimize user experiences.

Examples of successful co-living initiatives can be seen in cities with strong rental markets like Berlin, San Francisco, and London. These cities are ideal testing grounds for co-living models due to their high demand and rising housing pressures. The article also notes that innovative housing cooperatives in cities like Zürich demonstrate how shared amenities can be integrated into rental contexts, fostering community without sacrificing diversity and urban vibrancy.

In conclusion, "Redesigning Renting: Housing as a Service" presents a comprehensive view of the evolving landscape of housing, highlighting the implications of co-living and the need for sustainable and inclusive housing solutions across Europe.