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Cohousing & Coliving

For people who long to live in community with others, with the potential to share spaces, resources, chores, and/or meals. There are as many models for this as there are types of families!




Process Overview

Because they’re unconventional in an American context, cohousing & coliving projects are not about speed. Below is an overview of the process we’ve seen the most success with:
  1. Form an organizing group.
  2. Identify your criteria for selecting a property.
  3. Search for property.
  4. Place property under contract & vet its feasiblity with professionals.
  5. Begin design process.
  6. Seek planning approval for preliminary design (this may involve other authorities).
  7. Finalize design decisions.
  8. Create construction documents.
  9. Secure construction loan.
  10. Submit for building permit & negotiate construction contract.
  11. Build it.
  12. Move in!

You may be thinking: that’s a lot of steps! On the bright side, there are nearly 200 cohousing communities in the US, and a network of professionals who can assist you.



Meet the Pros

Because time is the greatest risk when developing a project - and design and construction are complex - tapping into the knowledge of experts is critical. If you need recommendations, let us know!

Most cohousing communities engage the following specialists during the process:

Cohousing Development Consultant

This is typically the first person you’ll hire. They help you get organized and guide you through the complex worlds of property selection, development, community formation, and more.

Architect

This is what we do! We’ll:
  • Help you understand the pros & cons of properties you consider purchasing
  • Guide your community through the design process 
  • Lead the team of consulting engineers
  • Create drawings for permitting & construction

Consulting Professionals

We interface with this group, incorporate their expertise, and make sure everyone works together. The group may include the following:
  • Geotechnical Engineer: for soil testing
  • Civil Engineer: for utilities & site-scaled infrastructure
  • Landscape Architect: for plantings, drainage, and outdoor spaces
  • Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, & Fire Protection Engineers: to right-size & design the building systems
  • Structural Engineer: to make sure the building withstands every day loads and major weather events
  • Additional Consultants: Sustainability Consultant, Acoustical Engineer, Lighting Consultant, Specifications Writer, Code Consultant, Cost Estimator, etc

Developer

Most cohousing communities partner with a developer to secure their loan. A developer also lends legitimacy to your project in the eyes of banks and other potential investors. The Cohousing Development Consultant will advise you on timing, terms, and more.

General Contractor / Construction Manager (GC / CM)

This is who will build your project. Many communities engage a GC / CM during early design for preconstruction services. This can be an effective way of understanding costs and streamlining design.

Marketing Consultant

To be successful, you’ll need to find interested community members. Marketing consultants specialize in helping you get the word out.


Relevant Work