Cohousing is a neighbourhood design that combines the autonomy of private dwellings with the advantages of shared resources and community living - it encourages community while maintaining the option for privacy.

Not to be confused with co-op’s cohousing uses the strata title ownership structure. To find out more about the difference between cohousing, co-op’s and conventional strata title click here.

Cohousing is growing in popularity because it appeals to many different people. Couples with children who want to raise their kids in a communal environment and young adults who want a more sustainable lifestyle, flock to cohousing.  Retirees and baby boomers looking to downsize and age in place also are attracted to cohousing.

Cohousing meets the needs of all ages as it is a form of shared living in which households have their own private homes and, in addition, share common amenities – a kitchen and eating area, a garden, laundry facilities, kids play area, and a set of principles and practices about living interdependently. 

It is also an alternative development model where the future residents participate in the planning and development so that it directly responds to their needs. The physical layout is designed to provide personal privacy as well as create opportunities for interaction with neighbours. Cohousing neighbourhoods tend to offer environmentally sensitive design with a pedestrian orientation and have documented lower vehicle use than conventional neighbourhoods. 

The concept originated in Denmark about 50 years ago and is becoming popular in many countries. It was introduced to North America by two architects in 1988 and since that time approximately 160 cohousing communities have been completed (eleven of which are in BC), with numerous others in various stages of development. 

The “Senior Cohousing Handbook – Second Edition” by Charles Durrett has inspired projects with a focus on the needs of an aging population.