We’ve talked a lot about community and belonging, but now it’s time to dive into something a bit different.

Co-living. I know, I know - just the term might conjure up images of hipster communes or endless arguments over who left the dishes in the sink. But hang on! 

Co-living is shaking things up in a way that goes beyond just splitting the rent. So, let’s explore this topic together and see how co-living is redefining not just where we live, but how we live - who we share our space with, and what it means for our sense of community.

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Why Co-living? A Modern Answer to Isolation

At first glance, co-living might seem like a practical solution for city dwellers trying to cut down on rent (because, let's face it, living solo in a city can feel like paying for a penthouse on the moon). But beneath the surface, it’s really a response to something much deeper: the growing sense of isolation many of us feel in today’s fast-paced, tech-obsessed world.

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Like I wrote in a previous article The Neuroscience of Loneliness and Belonging, loneliness isn’t just a feeling; it has real effects on our brain chemistry. When we feel connected, our brains release dopamine, the neurotransmitter that makes us feel rewarded and motivated. But when we’re isolated, dopamine levels drop, and the effects of chronic loneliness start to show. This isolation raises stress hormones like cortisol, which can lead to serious health issues such as heart disease, weakened immune function, and even depression. Research shows that social isolation can have the same negative impact on health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

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We’ve all been there - surrounded by people but somehow still feeling a bit…alone. Co-living offers more than just a convenient place to crash. It’s a chance to reconnect with others, to rebuild that sense of belonging, and to give your brain the dose of dopamine it’s been craving. And let’s be honest - having someone to share takeout with when your fridge only holds expired yogurt can’t hurt either.

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Co-living - The New "Family" We Didn’t Know We Needed

Remember when family was defined by blood ties, shared last names, and awkward holiday dinners? Well, co-living is flipping that script. In co-living spaces, people come together from all walks of life, often forming relationships that feel as close-knit as a traditional family. It’s like finding your tribe.

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In these environments, people share responsibilities, whether it’s cooking, cleaning, or just being there to listen. It’s not about DNA; it’s about showing up for each other - like family, but without the pressure to explain why you’ve “chosen” to wear sweatpants to dinner.

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From Necessity to Lifestyle Choice (With Better Wi-Fi)

At first, co-living may have looked like a practical solution to housing shortages and sky-high rents. But more recently, it’s transformed into something people actively choose. Co-living spaces aren’t just cramped dorms with questionable Wi-Fi. Think modern designs, eco-friendly spaces, and communities designed to cater to specific lifestyles. There are places for digital nomads, wellness enthusiasts, and even pet-friendly setups. And yes, reliable Wi-Fi is non-negotiable.

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For example, The Collective in London offers sleek, private rooms alongside communal areas designed for socializing. From shared kitchens to meditation rooms, it’s a space that’s built for connection - and not just the Wi-Fi kind.

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Co-living and the Changing Definition of "Home" (Goodbye White Picket Fence)

Co-living is also redefining what we think of as “home.” No longer confined to four walls, “home” now encompasses shared living spaces that blur the line between private retreat and social hub. In co-living communities, home isn’t just where you go to get away from the world—it’s a place where connection happens. It’s like getting the best of both worlds: your personal space when you need it, and a sense of community right outside your door.

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Ok, I know, I might be stepping on a few toes here - stretching the concept a bit and perhaps upsetting the traditional norm - but hear me out. The idea of home is evolving, and, in my own life, I’ve seen this firsthand. I co-parent and co-live with my former husband, who is now my roommate, co-parent, and co-best friend. We’ve managed to redefine our relationship and create a home that’s all about connection and mutual support, even though it looks a little different than the typical setup. 

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This shift reflects how our idea of family has evolved too. We’re building relationships based on choice and connection, not just tradition. And honestly, who needs a white picket fence when you can have a communal rooftop garden?

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The Future of Co-living: It's Not Just a Fad (Really)

With more people opting for co-living, it’s clear this isn’t just a flash in the pan. 

In fact, co-living communities are evolving to meet the specific needs of different groups. There are eco-friendly co-living spaces for the environmentally conscious, wellness-focused setups, and communities for those who work remotely. Whether you’re in your 20s, 30s, or looking for a change after retirement, co-living is offering something for everyone.

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In the future, as cities grow and traditional living arrangements continue to change, co-living may become a new standard for how we think about building communities. It's not just about saving on rent anymore - it’s about finding a new way to live with others in a connected, meaningful way.

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Lets wrap this up

So, is Co-living a new normal?

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The rise of co-living is reshaping our idea of family, community, and home. 

As traditional structures change, co-living offers an alternative model for how we can live, support one another, and find connection in an increasingly isolated world. Whether it’s for financial reasons or simply a desire for deeper community, co-living is becoming more than just a housing option - it’s becoming a way of life.

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About Me

My name is Stina Stjärnström, and I've worked as an architect and civil engineer on some of Scandinavia's largest and most complex development projects for over twenty years. Recently, my curiosity led me to study neuroscience to better understand how the built environment affects humans. Now, I'm focused on exploring and communicating the essential role of community in shaping society across all levels.

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In the next article in my series about community, I’ll be discussing Building Community from the Ground Up: Urban Planning for a Connected Society.

Stay tuned for insights how design can foster connection and belonging !

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