Coliving is a shared housing model designed to foster co-existence, community and access to common services. Driven by digitalisation and changes in modern lifestyle, this trend is gaining popularity among young professionals, digital nomads and remote workers. Colivings are growing in popularity in cities such as Madrid and Barcelona, offering a variety of options for those seeking a flexible and affordable lifestyle.
On the other hand, HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation) are properties shared by multiple people who do not form the same family unit, but have access to private rooms and basic common spaces.
Table of contents
What is Coliving?
Coliving is a collaborative housing model that integrates:
Private spaces such as single rooms or studios.
Common areas designed for work, socializing and leisure (coworking, shared kitchens, lounges).
Services included such as cleaning, wifi, and community activities.
Flexible contracts that adapt to short or long-term needs.
This concept not only offers a place to live, but creates an environment where residents share values, experiences and opportunities.
Origins and Evolution of Coliving
The concept of coliving has evolved significantly over the years, influenced by social, economic and technological changes. Although it may seem like a modern idea, its roots go back to ancient times. In ancient times, people lived in close tribes and communities, sharing resources and supporting each other, even in the Middle Ages it was common to share not only an apartment, but also a bed with family, friends, coworkers, and even strangers. An early form of coliving!
In the 1960s, the hippie movement and communes emerged as a form of communal living, emphasizing cooperation and equality. These groups sought to create an environment where all members shared responsibilities and resources, laying the groundwork for modern coliving.
During the 1970s and 1980s, shared renting and shared flats became a popular option among students and young professionals. This model allowed people to share housing costs and create a community within a shared space.
Modern coliving began to take shape in the 2000s in cities like San Francisco and New York . These new co-living spaces were designed specifically for professionals and entrepreneurs, offering not only a place to live, but also an environment that fostered convenience, collaboration, and community. Thus, coliving has become an innovative solution to housing needs in the contemporary world.
Benefits of Coliving for Digital Nomads
Connection and community: Encourages interaction between residents.
Comfort and services: Everything is included, from furniture to bills.
Flexibility: More adaptable stay options than a traditional rental.
Well-being-focused design: Modern and functional spaces. The building's design plays a crucial role in the well-being of residents, offering an optimal distribution of private and common areas.
Coliving Challenges and Considerations
While coliving offers numerous benefits, it also presents certain challenges and considerations that residents need to keep in mind. One of the main challenges is privacy and personal space . Living in a community means sharing many common areas, which can limit each individual's personal space. Finding a balance between community living and the need for privacy is crucial.
Communication and conflict resolution are key in a coliving environment. Residents must learn to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts constructively to maintain harmonious coexistence. The ability to engage in dialogue and reach agreements is essential to the success of this living model.
Cleaning and maintaining common areas is a shared responsibility among residents. Although at Haaus® we clean apartments weekly, establishing clear rules and procedures to maintain a clean and safe environment is vital. Everyone must contribute to ensure that common areas are kept in good condition.
Finally, safety and access are important considerations in coliving. Residents should feel safe and comfortable in their surroundings. Common spaces should be designed to be safe and accessible, ensuring that all members of the community can enjoy them without worry.
Coliving in the World
Coliving is a global phenomenon that is rapidly expanding around the world. In the United States , coliving is especially popular in cities like New York , San Francisco , and Los Angeles, where housing prices are high and demand for shared living spaces is high. These cities have seen a surge in the creation of coliving projects that offer innovative solutions for urban housing.
In Europe , coliving is rapidly gaining traction, with cities such as London, Berlin, Paris, Amsterdam, Barcelona and Madrid leading the way. These cities have embraced coliving as a solution to housing shortages and the need for spaces that foster community and collaboration.
In Asia , coliving is particularly popular in cities such as Tokyo, Seoul, and Singapore. The culture of community and cooperation in these countries has facilitated the adoption of coliving, offering residents a way of life that combines modernity with communal tradition.
In Latin America , coliving is developing rapidly in cities such as Buenos Aires, São Paulo and Mexico City. Demand for co-living spaces in these cities is high, and coliving offers an attractive solution for young professionals and digital nomads looking for a dynamic and connected lifestyle.
Coliving is transforming the way people live and interact around the world, offering an innovative, communal alternative to traditional housing models.
What is an HMO?
An HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) is a concept of shared ownership between several people who rent private rooms and share basic facilities, such as the kitchen or bathroom. It is a term, concept and type of housing regulated in the United Kingdom, although here in Spain we do not have the same concept of accommodation, and although it has certain differences, the closest thing would be the shared flat . This model is common in urban areas and is strictly regulated to guarantee the safety and comfort of residents.
Unlike a student residence, which also offers a shared living alternative, HMOs are more geared towards young professionals and do not provide the same experience of socialization and community found in student residences.
Features of an HMO
Private rooms, usually without additional exclusive spaces, unlike a traditional shared apartment, which is organized as the tenants want.
Basic common areas (kitchen, bathroom, laundry area).
Less focus on community or collaborative design, which differentiates it from coliving, which focuses on the coexistence of digital nomads and the creation of an environment conducive to work and entrepreneurship.
Specific regulations to ensure safety standards (e.g. smoke detectors and emergency exits).
Differences between Coliving and HMO
Aspect | Coliving | HMO |
Main focus | Community and coexistence | Functional accommodation |
Space design | Modern, includes coworking and social areas | Basic, limited to basic needs |
Services included | All inclusive: wifi, cleaning, events | Limited to the essentials |
Flexibility | Flexible contracts | Rigid contracts |
Experience | Active interaction and community support | Independence, less interaction |
Housing solutions | Shared housing in urban spaces | Single-family homes with specific regulations |
Coliving vs HMO: Which to Choose?
The choice between coliving and HMO depends on your priorities:
Coliving: Ideal for young professionals, digital nomads and those looking for a dynamic and connected lifestyle. It offers a comprehensive experience with included services and networking opportunities, with a flexible and temporary contract.
HMO: Perfect for those looking for an economical and functional option in an urban setting, with less interaction and a more basic structure, in the longer term.
Conclusion
Coliving represents a step beyond the traditional concept of shared housing such as HMOs , by integrating design, community and flexibility. While HMOs focus on functional accommodation, coliving becomes an enriching and connected living experience. If you are looking for more than just a room, coliving is your best choice .
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