Co-living has been on the rise in recent years, as living and working habits are re-shaped. It offers a convenient living arrangement for young professionals who are keen to save money, especially in cities with a high living cost for individuals choosing to live alone. Therefore, it stands to reason that co-living in London would be a popular option. It may take some getting used to if you haven’t co-lived in the past, but if you would like to learn more about what co-living entails, keep on reading!
What Is Co-Living?
Co-living in general isn’t a new idea. To the contrary, the concept of communal living has been around for what feels like forever, in one form or another. Co living entails living with a group of people you don’t necessarily know in shared facilities; it balances between the concept of a collective accommodation and a community. Individuals benefit from a private room, but also share a range of communal areas, which vary depending on the facility. It’s a great option for those keen to have a social element to their stay, while benefiting from reduced rent prices.
Why Is Co-Living Popular?
There are many factors which have a played a part in the rise of co-living among young professionals. The increase of remote working, which is not reserved for digital nomads, the need for a working space outside of the office and the demand for an alternative to a house share has brought forward co-living as an option ideally suited to many professionals. The housing crisis has also played a part in the rise of co-living in the UK, with individuals who have just moved to London being just one of the many examples of people who would be keen to explore the city’s co-living scene.
One of the co-living business’s key benefits is that it usually serves as an affordable alternative to renting alone, but it also encompasses a range of other pros!
The Pros And Cons Of Co-Living
Similarly to all other potential living arrangements, choosing to be a part of a co-living space has its pros and cons. The pros are significant, yet it all boils down to what each individual is looking for, as well as how they interact with other sharers, or make the most of the shared spaces! Let’s dive into all the various elements you should keep in mind if you are considering co-living.
The Benefits Of Co-Living
The fact that this is viewed as an affordable alternative to city living has already been brought up. What are the other benefits of co-living though? Conveniency and flexibility are at the top of the list, with many co living facilities offering flexible contract lengths for both short term as well as long term stays. Conveniency comes in various shapes and sizes. For one, the facilities are fully furnished which makes the moving in process all the more hassle free. More often than not bills are included in the price, which saves a lot of time in setting up services, and there may be other amenities that save a ton of time and/or money to take into consideration. The Stay Club’s co-living option for example offers kitchen utensils and linen included in the booking.
The social element is a key benefit as well. There is normally a mix of communal areas, likely to include social spaces as well, which allows the community to grow and residents to mingle, while everyone still benefits from the private space.
The Cons Of Co-Living
Although the benefits of co-living are significant, it’s always important to take into consideration that it is a shared living option and therefore it may not feel like the right fit for you depending on how you approach the concept.
Firstly, it’s likely a number of amenities may be shared, ranging from the kitchen to the laundry area. If you prefer privacy in all day to day aspects, then sharing a laundry room with others may not be your ideal fit. Similarly, the social aspect of communal living can be enjoyable, or it may feel unneeded depending on what you are looking for from your living situation.
Also, while all residents benefit from a private room, depending on the co-living facility this may feel like a cramped individual space for you. It all boils down to what you are looking for in your living situation, and how much of the communal lifestyle you would be interested in exploring!
Co-Living Etiquette
Being a part of a co living space comes with its own set of rules, which may be unique to the facility but would always revolve around the concept of respecting the community. Following these rules is the best way to ensure a respectful co-habitation, and an enjoyable experience for all. Some tips to give you a taste of co-living etiquette could be the following:
– Follow house rules. This is probably the greatest tip in terms of successful co-living!
– Keep noise levels down, and be sure to acknowledge and respect working near you.
– Do your best to learn what is shared and what isn’t.
– Think about when and where you are taking calls, to ensure you aren’t disturbing other residents.
– Be an active member of the community! Even if it feels like a step outside of your comfort zone, it’s worth a try.
So long as you go into the co-living arrangement with an open mind and positivity, you are bound to learn the individual co-living etiquette of your facility in no time!
What To Do If Something Goes Wrong
Living with others is more often than not an enjoyable affair, yet it may also be a tiny bit troublesome at times. Depending on the community you are surrounded by, tensions may arise and friction could appear. Don’t forget, you are living in a communal space where each person will undoubtedly bring their own individuality to the mix. In the case you notice something which doesn’t quite stick with you, it’s always important to communicate it to the other person with calmness and positivity.
Co-Living In London
Co living in London is a great option for young professionals who are building their career and are keen to experience the beauty of the city, without overpaying. Regardless if you have just moved to London, or are in the process of relocating, this guide will help you get a better idea of what you should be looking into.
The Stay Club London offers co-living options in North London, with ensuite studios complete with individual kitchenettes combined with a mix of social and co-working spaces to make the most of. If co-living sounds like the idea next step for you, then it’s time to explore the facilities on our Co-Living page!
