In recent years, a new trend in housing has been on the rise, revolutionizing the way people live and work together. Coliving, often referred to as «co-living,» is changing the dynamics of communal living spaces. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the concept of coliving, its distinctions from traditional roommates, the numerous advantages it offers, and even explore what the term «Colive» means in English.
So, if you’re curious about this exciting lifestyle trend, keep reading to discover everything you need to know about coliving.
What is the concept of Coliving?
Coliving, or communal living, is a modern form of shared housing where residents live together in a communal space and share amenities. Unlike having random roommates, coliving is designed to cultivate a sense of community through organized events, activities, and facilitating collaboration between residents.
The basic concept of coliving is to provide the social connection of living with others along with the convenience of having your own private living space. Coliving spaces consist of fully furnished bedrooms or apartments combined with extensive shared common areas like kitchens, lounges, coworking areas, gyms, terraces, and more.
What is the difference between coliving and roommates?
The main difference between coliving and just having roommates is the intentional community aspect. Coliving spaces are specifically designed to enable residents to easily interact and participate in communal activities together.
Most coliving companies employ community managers to organize events, coordinate shared meals and outings, and facilitate connections between residents. Things like weekend trips, game nights, yoga classes, and coworking events are standard practice. There is also usually an application process to find residents who align with the community values.
With random roommates, there is no guarantee you’ll have anything in common or even see each other regularly. The focus of coliving is on building meaningful relationships and an engaging social environment for residents through shared interests and values.
What are the advantages of co-living?
There are many advantages of choosing coliving over other housing options:
- Affordability – Sharing costs makes coliving cheaper than having your own apartment.
- Built-in community – Instant access to a social network with shared interests and values. Avoid isolation.
- Networking opportunities – Great for meeting new people and collaborators, especially in coliving spaces focused on entrepreneurs or remote workers.
- More space – Private bedroom with access to expansive shared common areas.
- Convenience – Cleaning, bills, WiFi, and amenities are handled for you.
- Location flexibility – Coliving spaces located in many major cities around the world. Easy to relocate.
- Travel connections – Meet people who can help you explore and navigate when living abroad.
What does Colive mean in English?
Colive is a branding term combining «co» (community) and «live» (living) used by some coliving companies. But coliving and colive both refer to the same coliving concept in English.
Who is coliving for?
Coliving spaces appeal to various demographics, but the most common residents include:
- Remote workers and digital nomads
- Entrepreneurs and startups
- Students and post-grads
- Travelers wanting to immerse in a new city
- Young professionals wanting an active social environment
Many coliving companies cater to specific niches like creators, wellness enthusiasts, or tech professionals. The shared values and interests create built-in communal bonding for these groups.
For example, coliving spaces focused on remote workers and entrepreneurs provide ample coworking areas, business talks, and networking events to help facilitate collaborations. Wellness-oriented coliving may offer daily yoga, meditation, healthy cooking classes and more for residents seeking that lifestyle.
The tailored experience and instant community around niche interests is a major benefit of coliving for many residents.
The value of community
Humans have an inherent need to belong and feel part of a community for mental wellbeing. Coliving cultivates community through:
- Shared meals & activities
- Coworking spaces
- Community events & outings
- Moderate resident size
- Collaboration opportunities
This facilitates social connections between residents and a sense of belonging. The built-in community also provides a support network when living abroad in an unfamiliar city.
For digital nomads or remote workers, the community aspect is especially valuable in combating the isolation and loneliness that can come from working alone. Having a coliving community for socializing, coworking, and exploring a new city with makes the remote work lifestyle much more sustainable and enjoyable.
The shared experiences and friendships formed through coliving also tend to be deeper than typical landlord-tenant relationships. Leaving a coliving space often feels like leaving behind a family.
What are the different types of coliving?
There are a few common types of coliving spaces:
- Apartment coliving – Shared apartments with individual bedrooms and communal living areas. More independent.
- House coliving – Multi-room houses for 6-12 residents. More intimate community.
- Boutique hotels – Hostel-style with modern shared amenities and activities.
- Digital nomad coliving – Focused on remote workers with ample coworking space and events.
- Student coliving – Geared at students and post-grads. Often near universities.
- Senior coliving – For active retirees wanting community their age.
Each type caters to different priorities whether that’s age, interests, trip duration, or level of community involvement desired.
When researching coliving spaces, be sure to look closely at the type of residential setup, amenities offered, community size, and events that best match your needs.
Finding the Right Coliving Space
With coliving continuing to grow globally, you have options when it comes to choosing a coliving community. Here are some tips on finding one that fits your needs and preferences:
Location – Look at coliving spaces in locations that appeal to your interests and priorities. Want to immerse in surf culture? Choose a space near prime surfing beaches. Have business meetings downtown? Prioritize urban locations.
Length of Stay – Coliving spaces may offer rooms on a nightly, weekly, monthly or longer-term basis. If you’re traveling, a weekly or monthly rate may be ideal. Those staying longer term can often get discounts.
Amenities – Consider which amenities are essential like fast internet, coworking spaces, laundry, or a kitchen. Many coliving spaces offer extras like gyms, terraces, spas, lounges, and bike rental.
Community Size – The number of residents can impact the social experience. Intimate houses cater to 6-12 people, while larger spaces may have 30+ residents.
Application Process – Most coliving spaces have an application screening residents on values, interests, and personality. This curates a more engaged community.
Membership Fees – There may be an upfront membership or application fee. This contributes to community events and supplies.
Private vs Shared Rooms – While coliving emphasizes shared spaces, many also offer private room options if you need more alone time.
Company Values – Try to find a coliving space aligned with your personal values like sustainability, wellness, entrepreneurship etc.
Choosing the Right Location
One of the biggest benefits of coliving is the flexibility to live in exciting destinations around the world. Here are some top locales to consider:
Coliving in Barcelona offers proximity to a lively cosmopolitan city with vibrant culture, nightlife, and entrepreneurial spirit.
Coliving in Madrid puts you near Spain’s energetic capital with its historic sites and passion for arts.
Coliving in Costa Brava gives access to charming coastal towns, breathtaking beaches, and outdoor adventures.
Coliving in Lisbon lets you experience Portugal’s hilly, coastal capital with its chic architecture and cafe culture.
Coliving in Bali provides a peaceful tropical island backdrop with coworking and wellness activities.
Coliving in Chiang Mai allows you to soak in the lush green mountainscapes of northern Thailand.
Coliving in London puts you in the heart of England’s bustling, multicultural capital.
Coliving in Mexico City gives exposure to Mexico’s immense, electrifying cultural hub.
Major European hubs like Paris, Berlin, and Amsterdam now have numerous coliving developments as well. The options are truly global – whether you seek mountain retreats, island getaways, or urban living, you can find coliving spaces catering to your location priorities.
Why choose us: Costa Brava Hub
When considering coliving, it’s essential to research and choose a community that aligns with your values and needs. We believe that our coliving space offers an exceptional blend of community, convenience, and quality of life.
Join us and experience the future of living.
In conclusion, coliving represents a transformative shift in the way people choose to live and connect with one another. It’s more than just a trend; it’s a movement that is redefining the concept of home. Whether you’re intrigued by the idea of coliving or actively seeking a community-driven living experience, don’t hesitate to explore the world of coliving spaces. It might just be the lifestyle change you’ve been looking for.
Tips for Getting the Most from Coliving
To fully enjoy your coliving experience:
- Attend community events and outings to meet fellow residents
- Use the shared spaces like the kitchen and coworking areas
- Offer to coordinate a community activity based on your interests
- Be open-minded and engage with residents from diverse backgrounds
- Participate in house decisions and provide feedback
- Balance private relaxation time with shared social time
- Take advantage of networking and collaboration opportunities
- Share your culture and cuisine with other residents
- Check community messaging boards to stay connected
- Don’t be afraid to voice ideas for improvements
Approaching coliving with an open, contributory mindset helps build relationships and make the most of this communal living opportunity.
