This panel primarily focused on recent market trends, investment possibilities and avenues for growth in the thriving coliving sector within Benelux.

Transformative strategies pivotal to scaling coliving brands in the Benelux market were unearthed in this panel. Speakers focused on embracing diversification, sustainability, accessibility and collaborative engagement with stakeholders to attain scalable success tailored to the region.

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What was covered in this session?

• Key tactics and strategies embraced by successful coliving brands were analysed with scalable growth as the primary aim. The focus was on diversification, sustainability, accessibility, and strategic collaboration with essential stakeholders in the Benelux region.
• The panel was a masterclass on how coliving brands in the Benelux market adjust and diversify their offerings to meet the varied demands of the local market, harnessing innovation to maintain a competitive edge in the industry.
• The speakers highlighted the significance of sustainable practices in the expansion of coliving brands in the Benelux market, recognising the pivotal roles that environmental and social impact play in ensuring lasting success.

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Coliving's Rapid Growth

Coliving has witnessed rapid growth in recent years, transforming the real estate landscape. Lodewijk van Grootel, Co-Owner at Growe NL, notes that his company's unique approach to coliving, which involves early project involvement during underwriting and development, has been a key driver of their success. This approach allows them to strategically choose locations and tailor spaces to meet evolving market demands. By working closely with developers, Growe NL ensures that their coliving spaces align with the demands of modern urban populations. 

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Jasper Boot, Investment Manager at International Campus Group, highlights the growth of their full owner-operator model, which focuses on delivering fully furnished apartments and well-appointed amenity spaces. With thousands of operational units and an extensive project pipeline, the company is expanding its coliving footprint at an impressive rate, serving diverse urban populations. International Campus Group's emphasis on international students has been a game-changer, tapping into the growing demand for accommodation from this demographic. The unique experiences offered by these companies demonstrate the diversity within the coliving sector and its capacity to cater to the housing needs of different urban communities.

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Balancing Social and Environmental Impact

Erik Volkers, Development Director at Greystar, underscores the importance of balancing social and environmental impact within the coliving industry. Greystar is dedicated to creating sustainable living spaces that reduce their carbon footprint. They also give precedence to community-building within their coliving properties to address social challenges, like loneliness and isolation. This holistic approach to coliving ensures that residents not only enjoy eco-friendly living but also benefit from a supportive and vibrant community, making a positive social and environmental impact. This focus on sustainability aligns with broader global goals to reduce carbon emissions and environmental degradation. The panellists concur that sustainable practices and community development are vital to coliving's long-term success and its role in addressing urban challenges.

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The Future Outlook for Coliving

The future outlook for coliving is promising, according to all three panellists. They concur that collaboration with policymakers and partners will be essential for advancing innovative housing solutions. Coliving is poised to play a significant role in reshaping urban living by providing adaptable and community-driven housing solutions, which are increasingly important in today's changing world. As the coliving sector continues to mature, it's expected to forge a lasting impact on the real estate market and urban development. Governments and municipalities worldwide are recognising the potential of coliving to alleviate housing shortages and foster a sense of community in urban areas. The panellists agree that these partnerships will be crucial in shaping the future of coliving.

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The Impact of Technological Innovation

Technological innovation is a cornerstone of the coliving sector's success. panellists underscore the pivotal role of smart building systems, streamlined property management platforms, and digital community engagement tools. These technologies enhance residents' experiences, streamline property operations, and create seamless living environments. The integration of technology not only benefits residents but also allows operators to optimise resource management and overall efficiency. With the advent of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the development of AI-driven solutions, coliving spaces are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Technology will continue to shape the industry, with the potential to revolutionise how coliving communities operate and interact. These technological advancements are propelling coliving into the future and enhancing the resident experience.

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Evolving Demographics and Changing Lifestyles

Coliving's popularity can be attributed to its adaptability to evolving demographics and changing lifestyles. Lodewijk van Grootel, Jasper Boot, and Erik Volkers collectively stress that coliving spaces now cater to a diverse range of age groups and lifestyles, from students and young professionals to empty nesters. The panellists emphasise the importance of offering customisable coliving solutions to meet the preferences and requirements of a broad demographic spectrum, making it a viable housing option for an increasingly diverse urban population. This adaptability extends to various global locations, accommodating the specific needs and cultural nuances of different regions, further solidifying coliving's role in the future of housing. As societal changes and urbanisation continue, coliving will evolve to meet the dynamic demands of a global population seeking flexible and community-centric housing solutions. The coliving sector's ability to adapt to these shifting demographics and lifestyles is key to its sustained growth and relevance in the years to come.

Reflecting on the success of the first 2 editions, Coliving Conference 2025 is now in full swing. The 2-day conference is set to bring another year of industry-leading discussions, featuring expert insights, emerging trends, and innovative ideas shaping the future of shared living. Secure your spot today and be part of the conversation.