Popularized in the 60s by the hippie movement, the concept of communal living began to fade after it was depreciated by a now infamous ex-commune.
Open Door is a company founded by Jay Standish and Ben Provan that is aiming to contribute to the resurgence of communal living spaces. In response to the issue of a high cost of living and stagnant wages, Open Door is currently running three communal living homes in the United States. The spacious homes have anywhere between eight to 16 housemates and are aiming towards more.
The houses are self-running and self-sufficient, relying on coordination and assigning tasks to maintain the daily functions of the estates. The homes are each different and one includes a vegetable garden, regular community dinners and music nights. The economic benefits and social interactions these communal living spaces offer are perfect for Millennials who are likely to be affected by low wages and social isolation.
Communal Living Houses
Open Door Offers Co-Living Spaces for People to Live as a "Family"
Trend Themes
1. Co-living Spaces - The rise of communal living spaces provide the opportunity for the real estate industry to adopt new housing models that address the needs of millennials who are affected by rising costs of living.
2. Self-sufficient Living - The concept of self-sufficient living opens up opportunities for the technology industry to develop innovative solutions that can enhance efficiency and sustainable living in communal living spaces.
3. Community-based Economy - The increasing popularity of communal living houses can promote community-based economy that can stimulate the growth of small businesses and startups which can bring innovative solutions to address the unique needs of the community.
Industry Implications
1. Real Estate - The real estate industry can leverage the trend of communal living houses by developing scalable and sustainable housing models for people who want to experience the benefits of cost-effective and community driven living arrangements.
2. Technology - The technology industry can tap into the growing need for efficiency and sustainability in communal living spaces by developing innovative solutions that incorporate IoT, energy-efficient systems and waste reduction technologies.
3. Small Business - The trend of communal living spaces can promote the growth of small businesses and startups by creating a community-based economy that can provide unique opportunities for businesses to address the specific needs and preferences of the community.