HousingLab

Housing Lab is an association dedicated to promoting collaborative living in Italy, focusing particularly on cohousing communities. Founded in 2014, it aims to develop sustainable urban living practices through the dissemination of collaborative housing models. A significant initiative is the creation of a geolocated map that showcases various cohousing projects across the country, each accompanied by informative profiles. This map serves as a valuable tool for individuals exploring innovative living arrangements, providing insight into existing initiatives and facilitating networking among different projects. The association places a strong emphasis on community-building through a range of activities, including research dissemination, training for public operators and professionals, and co-design workshops with future cohabiting groups. Housing Lab works in collaboration with local governments, third-sector organizations, real estate enterprises, and groups of citizens to co-create collaborative spaces and services. Notable projects developed by Housing Lab include initiatives that enhance community self-management and encourage generational mixing, aimed at creating an inclusive living environment. In addition to the map, Housing Lab offers various resources aimed at fostering community engagement. For instance, the "Cohousing Drinks" format has been successfully utilized in Milan to bring together individuals interested in cohousing, while tools like "Visions of Cohouser" help group members articulate and align their collective vision for future living arrangements. These efforts demonstrate Housing Lab's commitment to not only promoting cohousing as an alternative lifestyle but also facilitating the necessary groundwork to ensure these communities are well-planned and effectively managed. The association continues to push the boundaries of traditional housing concepts by exploring the intersection of public and private spaces, advocating for a reimagined understanding of home that prioritizes collaboration and shared experiences. Housing Lab's comprehensive approach sets a foundation for creating resilient communities that balance urban living with social interaction, catering to those looking to redefine their residential experience in a collective setting. Through its initiatives, Housing Lab exemplifies the potential of cohousing to address modern societal needs by fostering a sense of belonging and community, making it a pivotal player in the future of urban living in Italy.