Designing shared spaces

Design shapes daily life. Where the paths go, where the kitchen windows face and how big the common house is will decide how often neighbours meet — and whether they enjoy it.

Principles from cohousing

• Cars at the edge. Homes face a pedestrian path or courtyard, so people walk past each other every day.
• Kitchens facing the shared path. You see neighbours, and they see you, while doing ordinary things.
• The common house in the centre, visible from homes and on the way to them.
• Private homes slightly smaller to pay for generous shared spaces.
• Soft edges — porches and front gardens between private and shared space, where people can linger without committing to a visit.
• Children’s play within view of homes and the common house.

Spaces communities commonly share

Common house with kitchen and dining room · Guest rooms · Laundry · Workshop · Children’s room · Office or co-working space · Storage · Gardens and orchard · Bike shed · Quiet or meditation room

Start with what you’ll really use. An empty shared room costs money and makes the community feel smaller.

A participatory design workshop

1. Each household describes a perfect ordinary day
2. Map the site: sun, views, noise, access
3. Place shared spaces first, homes second
4. Discuss privacy versus contact
5. Agree priorities and trade-offs
6. The architect returns with options

Building approaches

• New build, ideally with an architect experienced in participatory design
• Renovating an existing building or farm
• Natural building — straw bale, cob, earth, timber
• Tiny homes or modular units
• Very low-energy or passive house design

Design for every age and ability

• Step-free entrances and paths
• Some ground-floor bedrooms and bathrooms
• Wide doors and turning space
• Good lighting and handrails
• Homes that can be adapted as residents age

Accessible design isn’t a special feature — it’s what lets people stay in their community for the rest of their lives.