In the heart of Spain, where sun-drenched plazas buzz with life and history whispers through cobblestone streets, a quiet revolution is reshaping the way Spaniards live. Amid soaring rents and a housing market strained by speculation and tourism, cohousing communities are emerging as beacons of hope, offering not just affordable shelter but a renewed sense of community.
The Rise of Cohousing: A Danish Legacy Finds Spanish Soil
Originating in Denmark during the 1960s, cohousing presents a collaborative approach to living. These communities are meticulously designed, developed, and managed by their members, blending private residences with shared spaces that foster interaction and mutual support.
Unlike traditional housing models, many cohousing projects operate on a non-speculative basis: the cooperative retains ownership, granting usage rights to members. Upon departure or death, the initial investment is returned without profit, ensuring homes remain affordable and free from market speculation.
In Spain, this model is gaining traction as a viable solution to the housing crisis. The country has witnessed a surge in property prices and rents, particularly in urban centers like Madrid and Barcelona, driven by factors such as tourism and real estate speculation. This environment has made traditional homeownership increasingly unattainable for many, prompting a search for alternative housing solutions.
Barcelona’s La Borda: A Blueprint for Sustainable Living
Nestled in Barcelona’s Sants neighborhood, La Borda stands as a testament to the potential of cohousing. This six-story, timber-framed building comprises 28 apartments and communal spaces, including a kitchen, laundry, guest rooms, and a multipurpose hall.
Developed by a housing cooperative, La Borda operates on a non-speculative model, ensuring long-term affordability for its residents. The project has garnered international acclaim, winning the prestigious Mies van der Rohe Award for emerging architecture in 2022.
Residents of La Borda actively participate in the management and maintenance of the building, fostering a strong sense of community. Shared responsibilities and decision-making processes empower individuals and create a supportive living environment. This collective approach not only reduces living costs but also enhances social cohesion, addressing the isolation often experienced in urban settings.
Government Initiatives: Supporting Alternative Housing Models
Recognizing the potential of cohousing, Spanish authorities are implementing policies to support such initiatives. In Barcelona, the city council has been proactive in promoting cooperative housing by providing public land on long-term leases at reduced rates. This strategy lowers initial investment costs, making it easier for cooperatives to develop affordable housing projects.
Additionally, the council has intervened in the real estate market to prevent evictions and convert private properties into social housing. A notable example is the purchase of the ‘Casa Orsola’ apartment block to prevent tenant displacement and ensure affordable rents.
On a national level, the Spanish government has introduced measures to regulate the housing market and promote affordability. In January 2025, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced plans to raise taxes on holiday rentals to align their tax rates with those of businesses, such as hotels, which currently pay a 10% VAT.
This move aims to address the issue of soaring rents and housing affordability in the country’s main cities, where a shift towards short-term tourist rentals has exacerbated housing shortages and increased rent prices.
Challenges and Criticisms: Navigating the Path Forward
While cohousing offers a promising alternative, it is not without challenges. Financing remains a significant hurdle, as traditional lenders may be hesitant to fund unconventional housing models. Additionally, navigating bureaucratic processes can be daunting for cooperatives, particularly when dealing with zoning laws and building regulations.
Critics also argue that cohousing projects, especially those receiving public support, may inadvertently cater to specific demographics, potentially excluding marginalized groups. Ensuring inclusivity and diversity within these communities is crucial to prevent the perpetuation of social inequalities.
A Glimpse into the Future: Cohousing’s Potential Impact
The rise of cohousing in Spain reflects a broader shift towards sustainable and community-oriented living. By prioritizing collective well-being over individual profit, these initiatives challenge traditional notions of property ownership and urban development. They offer a blueprint for resilient communities capable of withstanding economic fluctuations and social challenges.
Moreover, cohousing projects contribute to environmental sustainability. Shared resources and spaces reduce the ecological footprint of residents, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change. For instance, La Borda incorporates energy-efficient design and renewable energy sources, exemplifying how cohousing can harmonize with environmental goals.
Personal Stories: Lives Transformed Through Cohousing
The true impact of cohousing is best understood through the experiences of its residents. Take, for example, María and José, a couple in their early thirties who struggled to find affordable housing in Barcelona.
Faced with exorbitant rents and limited options, they joined a housing cooperative and became founding members of a cohousing project. Today, they not only have a stable and affordable home but also enjoy the support and camaraderie of a close-knit community.
Similarly, Ana, a single mother, found solace in a cohousing community after facing eviction from her previous apartment. The cooperative model provided her with affordable housing and a network of neighbors who assist with childcare and daily tasks, allowing her to balance work and family life more effectively.
Conclusion: Embracing Cohousing as a Path to Resilient Communities
As Spain grapples with a housing crisis fueled by speculation and tourism, cohousing emerges as a viable and transformative solution. By fostering affordability, sustainability, and community engagement, these projects address the multifaceted challenges of urban living. While obstacles remain, the growing support from both residents and authorities signifies a hopeful shift towards more inclusive and resilient communities.
In embracing cohousing, Spain not only honors its rich tradition of communal living but also paves the way for a future where housing is viewed not merely as a commodity but as a foundation for thriving communities.
Sources:
The Guardian
Elpais
