The attendees gained insights into residents perspectives to enhance community management, service design, operations and B2C expectation management.

The panel provided an immersive experience into the world of coliving through the eyes of the resident panellists. For operators, developers, designers, and other coliving stakeholders, this session offered unparalleled firsthand insights from those who are actively living the coliving experience. This session also provided knowhow about factors that encourage the development of more meaningful and user-focused coliving spaces.

‍

What was covered in this session?

• Participants gained a deep understanding of residents' motivations, challenges, and preferences that drive their choice of coliving.
• This panel afforded stakeholders an occasion to hear directly from residents about their experiences, the transformative impact of coliving on their lives, and lasting impressions of the coliving lifestyle. 
• This session opened up the golden opportunity for stakeholders to harness resident insights to refine their coliving offerings, creating services and spaces that resonate with their target audience.

‍

‍

Personal Experiences in Coliving Communities

During this engaging panel discussion, Per Loov, Meg Mateer, and Ozgur Dalak shared their extensive personal experiences within the coliving landscape, offering insights into the dynamic nature of coliving communities. Per Loov described his journey from Sweden to Amsterdam, where he embarked on a unique exploration of coliving. He experienced different types of coliving spaces, transitioning from managed communities to self-organised ones. This journey allowed him to witness the evolution of coliving in various cultural contexts. Meg Mateer brought a distinct perspective to the conversation, underscoring her passion for community and her transition into a coliving space in Amsterdam. Her focus on personal space within a shared living environment added a new dimension to the discussion, emphasising the importance of balance between individuality and communal living. Lastly, Ozgur Dalak shared his diverse experiences, spanning from France to Turkey and the Netherlands. In each location, he delved into coliving both in semi-unmanaged and well-organised communities. Ozgur's journey was marked by a keen interest in the role of qualified community management, which he highlighted as a critical factor in creating a vibrant coliving experience.

‍

Expectations in Coliving Spaces

The second part of the panel discussion revolved around the varied needs and expectations of coliving residents. Per Loov, Meg Mateer, and Ozgur Dalak offered distinct viewpoints on this matter. Per emphasised his fondness for shared kitchen spaces and underscored the importance of fostering close interactions with neighbours. He highlighted how these interactions helped in creating a sense of community and belonging. In contrast, Meg, with her strong focus on personal space and shared living areas, highlighted the need for residents to be empowered to co-create their living environment. She insisted that coliving spaces cater to diverse expectations and requirements, providing a platform for residents to shape their own experiences. Ozgur added depth to this discussion by sharing his experiences and placing significant importance on the concept of community within coliving spaces. He stressed how having a strong sense of community can make residents feel more at home, irrespective of the different expectations they bring to a coliving environment.

‍

Personal Anecdotes Demonstrating Transformative Impact

This section of the discussion revolved around the panellists sharing personal anecdotes that illustrated the transformative impact of coliving on their lives. Each panellist had a unique story to tell. Per Loov recounted a remarkable moment from his coliving experience when during a community event he unexpectedly took the stage as a performing magician. This unexpected turn of events demonstrated how a sense of belonging and personal growth can be nurtured within a coliving community, often through spontaneous interactions and the support of fellow residents. Meg Mateer's journey revealed how coliving had enabled her to create a profound sense of belonging and establish stronger connections with her VIPs (Very Important People) in her life. This personal growth and deepening of relationships underscored the life-changing potential of coliving experiences. Ozgur Dalak's personal narrative brought into focus how coliving spaces can lead to strong community bonds and personal development. His journey showcased that the shared environment in coliving often facilitates meaningful personal growth, as residents are exposed to a diverse range of experiences and interactions. These anecdotes collectively illuminated how coliving can be a catalyst for personal transformation.

‍

‍

Design Elements Balancing Privacy and Community

The discussion then delved into the design elements within coliving spaces that effectively balance privacy and community. The panellists, Per Loov, Meg Mateer, and Ozgur Dalak, shared valuable insights. Per stressed the importance of maintaining a small-scale community within a larger coliving space. He focused on the significance of shared kitchen spaces, which serve as focal points for organic connections among residents. This design approach ensures that even within a larger community, residents can cultivate meaningful interactions and a sense of closeness. Meg continued this conversation by emphasising the design elements that allow for organic connections while still offering personal space. She discussed the pivotal role of shared kitchens in promoting spontaneous interactions and building a sense of community, highlighting the need for a fine balance in the design. Ozgur underscored the significance of a qualified community in the design of coliving spaces. He suggested that community managers and resident ambassadors could play a crucial role in maintaining a vibrant community within the coliving environment. This thoughtful curation of community elements in the design ensures that privacy and community can coexist harmoniously.

‍

Curated Communities and Resident Selection

The panellists moved on to discussing the process of curating communities and selecting residents for coliving spaces. They explored the importance of a strong platform for resident selection and the value of a thorough screening process to ensure an intentional coliving community. Meg Mateer introduced the concept of resident ambassadors and community builders, emphasising their role in creating a robust community environment. She believed that these individuals could help in guiding the culture and dynamics of a coliving space, ensuring that residents are aligned in their intentions for communal living. Ozgur Dalak contributed to this conversation by highlighting the importance of matching people based on their shared goals and values for community living. This emphasis on alignment during the resident selection process ensures a higher likelihood of a harmonious and purposeful coliving experience. The discussion underscored the significance of the selection and curation process in shaping the coliving community's dynamics and overall success.

‍

‍

The Future of International Coliving

‍

The final segment of the discussion centred on the future of international coliving. Per Loov, Meg Mateer, and Ozgur Dalak shared their perspectives on the evolving landscape. They collectively emphasised the growing importance of strong platforms and community in coliving, suggesting that the international coliving concept is becoming increasingly significant. As coliving continues to gain momentum, the role of community in creating a feeling of home within these spaces will remain pivotal. Additionally, the panellists highlighted the potential for platform-driven solutions to enhance the resident experience in international coliving. With advancements in technology and increased emphasis on community dynamics, the future of international coliving holds exciting possibilities for residents looking for meaningful and well-connected living experiences.

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.