Coliving can lead to loneliness.
That statement makes no sense to most people in the coliving scene.
To most coliving operators, coliving is “all about human connection and community”. The positive effects of coliving should therefore be a feeling of connection, social belonging, and reduction of loneliness.
In theory, yes. And I am personally a big proponent of coliving to solve the loneliness epidemic.
But in practice, reality can look different. It is not a given that coliving creates connection and if not structured well, coliving can be more demanding socially than giving back.
Here’s why.
Disconnected coliving
I recently spent a week in a coliving space. The apartment hosted 5-8 people (based on occupancy and room sharing), had shared kitchen, bathrooms, and living space.
The coliving space also offered a coworking space, which was open to all members. The organisers also hosted a variety of events with the purpose to bring people together.
While it sounds good, the truth was that people in the space did not know each other. When I arrived, I didn’t get introduced to other members. People were outside most of the time and the shared spaces seemed empty.
Here’s the point:
Coliving requires building intimacy with others due to shared space. When there is no connection with others, the disconnect feels stronger.
When people share a space, they need to open up.
Unfinished, 2020. Left as it was.