We used to live....together.  Different generations of a family may have their own separate floors in the same three or four story building.  Extended family might all own homes scattered throughout a family owned piece of land.  

Around the world, coliving is common.  But our rugged American individualism and zoning laws have made it much less common in the U.S.  Look around and you can see that many people, from single professionals, to young families to empty-nesters to aging seniors....we feel more and more isolated in our homes.  

But that doesn't have to be true for you.  There are many ways to 'colive'.  A group of friends can get together and develop their own condominium community in a walkable neighborhood.

Imagine looking out your window and seeing one of your best friends sipping coffee on their porch.  No need to make a plan to meet, put it on your calendar, drive, find a parking spot or even get a shower!  Grab your coffee mug, slip on your flip flops and go join him or her!  Spontaneous connection with people we care about is the good stuff.  

You can create coliving in urban, suburban or rural settings.  Find others and talk about how you long to live.  Ask your friends to imagine what it might be like to live just a few doors down from each other.  What would you do?

Humans are wired to connect!  Imagine living in a community where you are surrounded by friends.  You have your own completely private home.  But walk out your front door and there are multiple opportunties every day to connect with your friends.  Share a meal. Sit and talk over coffee in the morning. Take a walk. Share some gardening.  No matter your age, having spontaneous moments of connection makes our lives richer and keeps us healthy and happy.  If you haven't heard of cohousing, check out the PBS video to learn a bit more in the Videos section of my website.

I am currently working with groups who are on the road to developing their own communities here in the Seattle area.  They are creating their own unique communities with neighbors who are their friends!

Does cohousing speak to you?  

Who would you want as your neighbors?

 How would your life be different?  

What would you include in the design of your new community....a shared artist studio or workshop?...a resistance lap pool for swimming?...a huge rooftop shared garden?....a location within walking distance to restaurants or light rail?