Cohousing is not a Commune!
Cohousing: A Modern Community Model, Not a Commune
In recent years, the concept of cohousing has gained traction as a compelling alternative to conventional living arrangements. Cohousing communities are intentional communities created with the idea of fostering a close-knit neighbourhood where residents actively participate in the design, governance, and maintenance of their shared spaces. However, there is a common misconception that cohousing is synonymous with communes, which leads to misunderstanding and misrepresentation of this innovative housing model.
Let's delve into why cohousing is distinctly different from a commune and why this distinction is crucial.
Ownership and Individuality:
In a commune, property and resources are commonly owned, and decisions regarding their use are typically made collectively. In contrast, cohousing communities consist of individually owned homes. Each resident has private ownership of their dwelling and shares ownership of common spaces with their neighbours. This model respects individual property rights while promoting a sense of community and shared responsibility.
Self-Governance vs. Collective Decision-Making:
Cohousing communities operate on the principle of self-governance, where residents actively participate in decision-making processes related to the community's management and development. While communes often employ collective decision-making, cohousing emphasises individual agency within a framework of collaboration. Residents have a say in community matters, but they retain autonomy over their personal lives and property.
Social Structure:
Communes are often characterised by a strong emphasis on collective living, where members may share income, resources, and even childcare responsibilities. Cohousing communities, on the other hand, prioritise social interaction and mutual support while preserving personal boundaries. Residents come together for shared meals, activities, and celebrations, but they maintain separate households and lifestyles. Cohousing fosters a sense of belonging without necessitating uniformity or shared finances.
Intentional Design:
Cohousing communities are meticulously planned to encourage social interaction and facilitate a sense of community. Common facilities such as kitchens, gardens, and recreational spaces are strategically located to promote spontaneous encounters and collaborative activities. Communes may also prioritise communal spaces, but the design objectives often extend to economic or ideological goals that may not align with the preferences of individual members.
Inclusivity and Diversity:
Cohousing communities welcome people from diverse backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles. While some communes may have specific criteria for membership or ideological alignment, cohousing embraces inclusivity and celebrates the richness of human diversity. Residents of cohousing communities value the opportunity to learn from one another and build meaningful connections across differences.
While both cohousing and communes offer alternatives to traditional housing models, they represent distinct approaches to community living. Cohousing prioritises individual ownership, self-governance, intentional design, and inclusivity, fostering vibrant and resilient neighbourhoods where residents can thrive both independently and collectively. By understanding and appreciating these differences, we can dispel misconceptions and recognize cohousing as a valuable and viable option for those seeking a more connected and sustainable way of life.
