Co-living is the new house-sharing
By Nataly Hermanus
There are only a few things that Millennials love more than a visually-pleasing order of avo-toast, and maintaining a trendy Instagram-aesthetic. A penchant for Wanderlust, and sharing new and fringe experiences are two of them!
Co-living, a modernised and re-imagined version of dorm-living and house-sharing, is currently all the rage among millennials, and young professionals alike. One of the earliest South African pop-culture references is the popular E-TV show, Backstage, which drew millions of viewers every weeknight during the early 2000’s.
Four strangers from different backgrounds, all attending a Performing Arts College, lived together in a communal house in the hub of Johannesburg, while sharing more than just a kitchen and bathroom - these characters shared experiences, built memories and influenced each other’s lives.
Today, the shared-housing bar has been raised immensely, catering to specific needs and preferences. Millennials, for example, prefer the best of both worlds - the privacy of space while never being lonely. Coupled with plenty of opportunities to be social and enjoy experiences, ‘La Vie Est Belle’-style.
The house-sharing archetype has evolved into luxe en-suite rooms in modern homes, self-contained studios with kitchenettes, and re-purposed hotels with flexible leasing options, to name a few. All offering communal kitchens and lounges, with the modern conveniences of being fully furnished, boasting top of the range appliances. While included basic utilities, fast, uncapped internet service, weekly housekeeping, and concierge services etc. seal the deal on hassle-free living.
Co-living housing also caters to specific needs by being located in or near city hubs; all within walking distance of public transportation, restaurants, stores, universities, gyms and other sought-after amenities. Thereby piquing the interests of young professionals who seek safe, affordable and desirable housing in the city, while networking, sharing experiences and making friends close to home.
On trend with the latest developments in the world of communal space, Neighbourgood now offers living- and workspace to young professionals and digital nomads, right in the heart of Cape Town’s Central Business District. Staying true to its mission of bringing neighbourhoods to life, Neighbourgood East City was once home to an iconic Cape Town hotel. This was repurposed into thoughtfully designed co-living suites, and shared, functional kitchen, dining and workspaces, serving those who savour this new way of living and working.
This latest offering follows on the heels of its inaugural endeavours on the Atlantic Seaboard, followed by Woodstock, with an Adderley Street launch in the pipeline.
Evidently, four walls and a white-picket fence in the suburbs, or solo-digs in the sky no longer serve as a marker of success in adulthood, as the value of shared experiences, and access to a supportive community, with opportunities to network with like-minded individuals reign supreme.
