Introduction to CoHousing Houston
Houston’s East End neighborhood is set to welcome a unique housing development called CoHousing Houston, which focuses on communal space and aims to combat the growing issue of isolation in modern America. This development, located at 114 Delmar St., consists of 33 individually-owned units built around a central courtyard.
What is CoHousing Houston?
CoHousing Houston is designed to encourage in-person interactions among residents. The development features a common house, a large gathering space, kitchen area, and work station that serves as a community center and event hall. While each unit has its own kitchen and bedrooms, they are intentionally designed to be short on extra rooms, encouraging residents to use the common house or shared outdoor porches and balconies for hobbies and activities.
The Concept of Communal Housing
The idea of communal housing is not new and has been practiced by various groups throughout history. However, it is not a common practice in modern American society, where people tend to prefer private spaces. CoHousing Houston aims to offer the best of both worlds, providing private living spaces while also fostering a sense of community.
Resident Experience
One resident, Kelli Soika, has experience living in a similar cohousing community in Colorado before moving to Houston in 2018. She found the cohousing model to be liberating and has worked to create the first cohousing community in Houston. Soika emphasizes the power of community connection, where residents can draw on each other’s strengths and support each other in times of need.
Benefits of CoHousing
Soika highlights the benefits of cohousing, including the ability to ask neighbors for help, share experiences, and build relationships. She notes that in a traditional housing setting, people can become isolated and disconnected, whereas in a cohousing community, residents can rely on each other for support. The community also provides opportunities for social engagement, which is essential for mental and emotional well-being.
Addressing Isolation and Loneliness
Isolation and loneliness are significant problems in America, with studies showing a decline in time spent in "third places" such as community centers, parks, and other public spaces. CoHousing Houston offers a unique solution to this problem, providing a built-in community and opportunities for social interaction.
Governance and Decision-Making
CoHousing Houston has a democratic governance structure, with weekly meetings in the common house to discuss issues that affect the entire community. Residents own their homes but also have a say in the decision-making process. The community strives to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard, with measures in place to support quieter members and prevent domination by a few individuals.
Safety and Concerns
While CoHousing Houston has a unique governance structure, there are concerns about safety and what happens in case of a problem resident. Soika notes that the community has not experienced any such issues in the past, but acknowledges that there may be a need for protocols to address such situations.
Conclusion
CoHousing Houston is an innovative approach to housing that prioritizes community and social connection. With its unique design and governance structure, it offers a viable alternative to traditional housing models. As the community prepares to open fully this fall, it will be interesting to see how it evolves and addresses the challenges of building a cohesive and supportive community. With its focus on communal space and social engagement, CoHousing Houston has the potential to make a positive impact on the lives of its residents and the wider community.
