Exploring the joys of community living
With the cost of living on the rise and loneliness emerging as a pressing global issue, the allure of intentional communities is capturing the hearts and minds of many. Join us as we connect with co-living members to delve into the advantages and challenges of this modern lifestyle choice.
Embracing life with new faces? Is there anything more frustrating than constantly finding the bathroom occupied, dishes piling up in the kitchen, and the sound of loud music seeping through the walls when all you crave is a peaceful night’s sleep? It’s the little things that can really disrupt our daily rhythm.
Perhaps we should explore a different path. With housing and rental prices soaring and the World Health Organisation highlighting loneliness as a pressing global health issue, communal living is stepping into the spotlight. More and more, we’re seeing a rise in community-led living arrangements that foster connection and support.
Creating a shared living space with others can bring more benefits than drawbacks.
Is society truly prepared for what lies ahead?
Meet Yamuna Singh, a vibrant 30-year-old food writer calling the bustling city of London her home. In 2020, after a transformative breakup, she found herself on the lookout for a fresh start. While scrolling through social media, she stumbled upon a charming warehouse—an old industrial gem—that had just become available. In the vibrant neighbourhood of Hackney Wick, Singh reveals that there are nearly 100 unique warehouse communities, each contributing to the area’s eclectic charm. Yet the one she inhabits stands apart from the rest. “Our setup has a unique twist,” she shares.
We make it a priority to hold our house meetings regularly, ensuring that any concerns about chores are addressed promptly, preventing any negativity from building up. Yamuna Singh shares a vibrant home with six other individuals, all in their late 20s and early 30s, creating a dynamic living environment filled with youthful energy and camaraderie. Each week, they contribute £25 into a communal bank account, ensuring that the essentials for household needs, from cooking supplies to cleaning products, are well taken care of, along with delightful dinners for everyone. Each evening, a designated chef takes charge in the kitchen.
In the lively atmosphere of a shared group chat, friends effortlessly coordinate their dinner plans, confirming their attendance, requesting a late plate to savour upon their return, or announcing the arrival of a special guest. It’s all about connection and making sure everyone feels included in the evening’s festivities.
In every home, there are those essential tasks that keep everything running smoothly, and then there are the gatherings that bring everyone together to discuss the heart of the household. “Finding a half-hour window when everyone can gather often requires several WhatsApp polls,” Singh shares. “We make an effort to hold these meetings regularly, ensuring that if anyone has concerns about their chores or any topics they wish to discuss, they can do so openly before any issues arise.”
One of the greatest joys of communal living, she shares, is the constant presence of others around you. The housemates share a bond that resembles a close-knit family. “I’ve never experienced those feelings towards my housemates in the past.” In the vibrant city of London, she notes, the housing crisis presents quite the challenge when it comes to finding a place to call home. “Navigating life here is becoming quite the challenge. It feels as though we’ve managed to slip through a small crack in the system, finding our way to something better.”
Of course, there are some downsides to consider as well. Singh is dedicated to carving out those precious moments for herself amidst her busy schedule. “It’s hard for me to pull myself away from a lively gathering around a big table,” she shares. Even if you choose to skip the festivities, the buzz of celebration will still find its way to you. The home features two showers and two toilets, allowing housemates to share these amenities with ease. However, the single washing machine leaves a bit to be desired.
Residents of the communal warehouse often find themselves calling it home for several years, embracing the unique lifestyle it offers. Some communal living spaces are designed for a more permanent lifestyle, offering a sense of belonging and community that feels like home. At 36, Henna Zutshi embraces a vibrant life alongside her husband and their adorable three-year-old daughter, all nestled within a charming co-house community in the picturesque city of Madison, Wisconsin.
My husband was the one who purchased our very first home together. “He began to take notice after we had been together for about eight months,” Zutshi shares. “I had heard of co-housing before, and I thought to myself, this is really intriguing.” Staying together might just lead to a delightful connection that I could truly embrace. And just like that, everything has beautifully aligned for us.
Discover the charm of the OYM co-housing estate, featuring two stylish apartment blocks complemented by a selection of inviting single-family homes. Every unit boasts its own cosy bedroom, private bathroom, and fully equipped kitchen, perfect for a comfortable living experience. This charming community is home to approximately 100 residents, showcasing a delightful mix of families with children and vibrant single seniors, each contributing to the unique tapestry of life here. “In essence, our co-house operates as a condominium association—that’s the legal framework that defines it,” Zutshi shares. “Owning our home comes with its perks, but we also embrace the monthly condo fee that contributes to the vibrant community spaces we enjoy and provides essential insurance coverage for our property.”
Embrace the art of co-living with these essential tips for a harmonious shared space. First, establish a routine of house meetings to openly discuss any concerns that may arise.
Remember, a successful co-living experience requires everyone to pitch in, so be ready to roll up your sleeves and contribute. Lastly, don’t forget the importance of personal space; carve out some time for yourself away from your housemates to recharge and maintain balance.
Every few weeks, residents come together to enjoy delightful meals, creating a sense of community. The calendar is also sprinkled with social events, including a charming monthly sing-along and lively parties that bring everyone closer. Every two weeks, members gather for an engaging meeting, complemented by board and committee sessions that keep the momentum going. “I’m fully immersed in my career,” Zutshi shares. “It seems there’s a vibrant community of retirees engaging in various activities together, and I can’t help but feel like I’m missing out on all the delightful regular happenings they share.” Every resident is encouraged to dedicate four hours of their time each month to contribute to our vibrant community.
“One of the things I truly cherish is the wonderful community of parents we have,” Zutshi shares. “Embracing motherhood has allowed me to truly rely on the wisdom of fellow parents for guidance.” After a long day at work, she cherishes the simple joy of stepping into her backyard, where her daughter can play with other kids, bringing a refreshing end to her day. Friends and company are always just a heartbeat away, ready to brighten your day.
Life isn’t always a smooth journey. The co-house community recently gathered for an engaging meeting focused on participation. “So many of us who are deeply involved often sense that we are giving our all.” “And yet, you notice some individuals who seem to be effortlessly gliding through life,” Zutshi observes. “Yet, so much of the effort remains unseen.” Her husband has faced some challenges after proposing fresh ideas, encountering a bit of pushback along the way.
Intentional communities are vibrant spaces where individuals come together with shared values and goals, creating a unique lifestyle that fosters connection and collaboration. These communities often prioritise sustainability, cooperation, and a sense of belonging, making them an appealing choice for those seeking a more meaningful way of living. Embracing the principles of communal.
In the Western world, communal living has blossomed into a vibrant tapestry of diverse setups, each emerging for its own unique reasons. Notably, in the UK, the COVID-19 pandemic sparked a newfound interest in these shared living arrangements, highlighting the appeal of community and connection during challenging times. Members of a thriving communal-living centre share how their unique arrangement is serving as a safeguard against the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis.
“It can be quite perplexing,” shares Aradhya Patel, a member of the board for the community-living organisation Dine as One, who has a passion for “intentional communities”—spaces w where, by academic standards, five or more unrelated individuals choose to live together harmoniously. In the world of co-housing, individuals enjoy the luxury of their own self-contained homes while also having access to inviting communal spaces. This vibrant community thrives on self-management, creating a unique atmosphere. On the other hand, housing co-ops offer shared ownership, but they may lack the intentional community feel that many seek.
Explore the exciting and emerging world of co-living, a fresh approach to modern living that’s capturing the attention of many. In this innovative space, a company has designed a building that features self-contained apartments and studios, complemented by inviting common areas. However, it’s important to note that these spaces do not fall under the category of intentional communities. In today’s UK, communes are a delightful rarity, offering a unique glimpse into a lifestyle that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly unconventional. What sets a commune apart from other community types is its unique approach to income sharing, fostering a sense of togetherness and collaboration among its members. Your income combines into a shared fund, allowing you to indulge in experiences and purchases as a collective.
Have you ever wondered about the dynamics of those cosy house shares, where residents become more like close friends or even family? It’s a unique lifestyle that fosters deep connections and shared experiences. These groups can certainly be seen as intentional communities, albeit with a more organic and less structured vibe, thanks to their smaller membership.
Studies reveal that individuals residing in intentional communities experience a quality of life that rivals that of the happiest people in our society.
As the housing market faces increasing pressure, a growing number of individuals are embracing the charm and camaraderie of communal living. Many individuals are on a quest for a more eco-friendly lifestyle, driven by a desire to embrace sustainability. In our modern world, where family ties often stretch across vast distances from their hometown roots, the allure of social connection has never been more appealing. Research reveals that individuals residing in intentional communities enjoy a quality of life that rivals the happiest people in society.
Could this lifestyle be the perfect fit for everyone? “There are certainly some compromises,” shares Singh. “Navigating the intricacies of community life can often feel like a daunting task. There are moments when things don’t go as planned, leaving individuals feeling disheartened and frustrated.”
Creating a new co-housing community can present its own unique set of challenges. Finding the perfect piece of land can be quite the challenge, especially with the financial risks involved and the cautious approach banks take when it comes to lending. In today’s world, we often find ourselves navigating a framework filled with specific beliefs about what constitutes a fulfilling life and an ideal home. “Communal living doesn’t quite align with those preconceived notions,” Singh shares. “In our modern world, there’s a prevailing belief that privacy is a virtue, and that the act of ownership brings a sense of fulfilment.” According to her, the idea of sharing your living space lacks that aspirational quality. “Envisioning the perfect home often conjures images of a spacious house that you can call your own.”
In the vibrant city of London, Yamuna Singh recently captivated her followers with two Instagram videos showcasing her chic living setup. The response was overwhelming, with numerous admirers reaching out to enquire about the possibility of moving in! “I felt a wave of guilt wash over me as we decided not to welcome any new roommates,” she shares. “There’s an undeniable craving for more spaces that inspire and uplift, yet it often falls on us to curate those experiences ourselves.”