What is cohousing:

What is Cohousing?
Cohousing is a unique real estate product designed with the intention of creating a socially and ecologically sustainable community. In these small-scale neighborhoods, residents know their neighbors well and generate a true sense of community within and around their neighborhood. Residents actively participate in the development, decision making, and ongoing management of their community. These communities are based on democratic principles that guide the community into a social and practical way of living. Cohousing communities usually include a diverse mix of people, including singles, couples, families with children, and elders.

The Cohousing concept was created in Denmark in the '60s and was introduced into the American culture by architects Chuck Durrett and Katie McCamant, co-authors of "Cohousing: A Contemporary Approach to Housing Ourselves". To date there are 80 completed cohousing communities and approximately 60 communities in some stage of development.

Do I own my own home?
Yes, each neighbor owns their own home and is also part owner of the common house (see below for common house details). Each home features a kitchen, at least two bedrooms, bathrooms, a porch or a deck and dining areas and views to the common green.

What is a common house?
A common house is similar to a "clubhouse" in a condominium complex, except that the community utilizes them much more frequently! The common house is the location where the community cooks and shares meals together anywhere from 1-3 times per week. Other activities that can be held in the common house include: yoga classes, musical events, book clubs or business meeting. The common house is viewed as an extension of each community member's own home - an oversized living room! The Lyons Valley Village common house will boast a large, gourmet kitchen, a dining area, a children's playroom or area, and a "bonus" room for media usage (library, etc.) or to be used as a yoga/meditation room. The guest rooms and laundry facilities are included in the common house and the basement will be unfinished on hopes that a workshop may one day be built there.

For more information please visit the Cohousing Association at www.cohousing.org

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