Shared Housing

Breaking the Preconceived Notions of Coliving

Julia Paz · 12/3/20

Breaking the Preconceived Notions of Coliving

Breaking the Preconceived Notions of Coliving 

It seems like everyone in the world has a horrible roommate story. People have stories of roommates who never did their dishes, stayed up till late hours of the night, and ate all their food. These stories put people off from living with others. People stay in extra small apartments and pay double the price, all to avoid having an awful roommate. These preconceived notions about coliving make it, so potential tenants don’t give it a chance. What people don’t hear, however, are the great benefits that can come with coliving.

It’s like living in a dorm

For one, dorm rooms are small. They have no bathroom, kitchen, or extra space. People have to share close quarters in a dorm room. A coliving space comes with separate rooms and living areas. People can have their privacy, and when they want to feel a sense of community, they can get that, too. Dorms are fun because they have lots of people with different interests. Coliving spaces are the same, and they come with some extra amenities. 

It’s hard to keep clean 

 Coliving spaces have more people and more messes, yet that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re dirty. Everyone contributes to a coliving room. People clean up after themselves and help others out, as well. If anything, coliving spaces are cleaner than any ordinary apartment when roommate communication is clear.

There’s no privacy

People in coliving situations get as much privacy as they need. If they want space from other people, they can go to their room. At least in a coliving space, people are less likely to get lonely.

It’s unsafe to live with a bunch of strangers

This could be said about any living situation. Strangers turn into acquaintances and then friends. Plus, everyone in a coliving space has agreed to terms set out on their lease. If anyone feels uncomfortable, they can report it to the landlord. Otherwise, these spaces are very safe because many people can look out for one another. 

Coliving is for young people

Young people do like coliving because it’s affordable, but it’s certainly not just for them. Anyone can benefit from living with a group of people. There is a sense of community in a coliving situation that is great for people who like being social and learning about others. 

Don’t be scared to join a coliving space. They’re fun, clean, friendly, and great for all types of people. 

Alcove furnishes the co-living common spaces